THe 2006 National Puerto Rican Day Parade

[Barbwire]

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061apollo_NPRDP__BB.jpg

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061happy_faimly_BB.jpg


http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/650615_th_ave_bb_.jpg

[Terri]

Wow!!! More! more! more!
now explain who is who.

[baileyholc]

Stop teasing Barb and get the reast posted. :D How was it? Tell us everything and don't leave anything out.

[Barbwire]

Nope, ya only get 3. Goodnight!

[Linda Y]

OK. I want that sabino. Now.

[CarolU]

I recognize Lori on Amante....aweseom pictures. Great teaser.

[swaite]

I don't know how you found the energy to post these!!! Nice shots. Great day, wonderful to meet you all. Good night from here also..................
Sue and Jose

[appyday]

OK huzzy post more pics..... :roll:

[ErinC]

I just walked in,
I am going to bed, thanks BARB!!!!

[DebbieS]

Barb, didn't you ride? Did I miss something? Amante and Lori look awesome! All the horses and riders look great. I can't imagine riding with all that going on!! It must have been a blast!

Listo and I did a parade last summer with 400+ entries. I can't imagine something like this!

[JennLM]

woooooooooooo wait, only 3? I bet you are going to get up at the crack of dawn to post more right??

Thanks for at least these, so cool to be in a Parade. Unsure if I would ever have the nerve for it.

Great job you guys!

[qltrlori]

Well now instead of being nutty you are being just plain ornery. You must be over tired ;-)

[Brigitte]

We want more pictures!!! :D

[GeorgeGuns]

Looks fun so far, I can't wait to see the rest!

[hast]

Great pictures, now we want the story and more pictures too. :lol:

I've ridden Michico in a lot of parades... probably not as many entries as there, but we have been placed right behind the marching band ...and right in front of the fire truck. :lol: Michico did a great imitation of fino behind that marching band. :lol:

[Moniece Dickerson]

Oh boy and i'll take that chestnut :D !Can hardly wait for more pics!Your friend,Moniece

[ErinC]

the chestnut is our new friends TINOMINO , Kelly. from Franklin ma.

[ErinC]

SUE
http://i5.tinypic.com/143q268.jpg
ABBY
http://i6.tinypic.com/143q2d2.jpg
JOSE
http://i6.tinypic.com/143q2k5.jpg
Can not say his name but this was Jay's Fino mare
http://i6.tinypic.com/143q2r7.jpg

[ErinC]

check out the city and people behind Lori,
http://i6.tinypic.com/143q3c8.jpg
Barb and Allie
http://i5.tinypic.com/143q3kn.jpg
and our friend
Edurne talking to Lori

http://i5.tinypic.com/143q595.jpg

now I have to get ready for work, the rest come later.

I have a few good video clips too...

[Terri]

WOW

[ErinC]

wow, is not even CLOSE

it was so beyond wow!!!!

[hast]

That is so cool 8-) I can't wait for more pictures. :D

[ErinC]

http://i5.tinypic.com/143q9z8.jpg

Jose , Sue, me erin below them, Kelly next, Abby, Edurne,Lori, and Barb

the other guy just jumpped in, Jose what was his name, he was a great help!

[swaite]

That guy is Jerry - He goes with us every year and helps with horses, cooks and takes photos for us! Poor guy was in the truck that hit the deer - long day!

[Laura S]

Awesome pics! It looks like you guys had a blast. Bet you can't wait for next year!!! :lol:

[Minouri]

:jumpy :jumpy :jumpy :jumpy :jumpy :jumpy :jumpy :jumpy

I love em! I love em! I love em! More! I say! I need more!

Barb, thanks for posting even when you were tired! Amante looks great!

[DSDECKERT]

Looks great - thanks for the pics!!!!

Hope Lori can get back home to Miami! It's raining buckets in Tampa.

[swaite]

A view from behind - The last two are Mari on her 25 year old mare and Landi on Jay's Fino mare, Alfonsina.

http://www.2hottotrot.com/data/507/medium/parade2.jpg

Abbie and Mari having a blast.....

http://www.2hottotrot.com/data/507/medium/parade1.jpg

Kelly and Constantino having more fun!

http://www.2hottotrot.com/data/507/medium/kellytino.JPG

[ErinC]

chilling out after, still park of center park.
http://i5.tinypic.com/14402mx.jpg
http://i6.tinypic.com/14402ol.jpg
http://i6.tinypic.com/14402t4.jpg
http://i6.tinypic.com/14402yq.jpg

WOW great pictures and looks like everyone had a fun time. Hope Lori is already back in Florida since they are already monitoring the storm to shut the airports in Orlanda and Tampa, but nothing on our news about Miami.

[Barbwire]

The ladies in the pics were our very own Edurne (next to Lori) and her good friend Ethel. Sitting next to me.

[Barbwire]

Paso Ambassador Amante at work. Lori said he just loved the children. She has a very special story about Amante and an autistic boy she will share with you when she has the energy.

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Amante_pet_bb.jpg

[ErinC]

OOOOOO how sweet, I can not get over how much he loved the crowd!
he did so awesome!

[Barbwire]

See how he can't wait to see them???

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061amante_crowd_bb.jpg

[Barbwire]

Hay Lori, the parade is going on without you! Lori? Lori?

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061working_crowd.jpg

[Barbwire]

One of our smoking hot banner carriers!!!WEPA!!!

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061banner_carrier_bb-med.jpg

[Barbwire]

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Paso_heads_bb.jpg

[jodiTowne]

Great pics!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks!

Looks like you all had a blast. What a good boy Amante is!! Barb...he is definately a keeper, leaky roof?----who cares!! And the rest of them looked like they were having fun...I can not imagine......

[baileyholc]

The pictures are great. Thanks for shairen. Lori, have a safe trip home. Can't wait for the story on Amante and the kid. Beautiful horses and they look so happy. Thanks yall

[Camilla]

Great stuff, you guys!!
That looks like sooo much fun. Super pics!
Barb, you should be verrry proud of your boy.
What a blast...

[nmcreel]

Thanks for all the pictures. I love the pictures of Amante checking out the crowd. My mare, Cassidy, also loves to meet new people. Those folks look like like they are screaming for a rock star. How did he stay so calm and relaxed?

[ErinC]

they were screaming, blowing horns, it was SOOOOOO loud you could not hear some one talking to you even if they were yelling in your face.

the horses all of them were perfect.

[Moniece Dickerson]

Oh my gosh what a BLAST you all had!!Oh I wish I wish I wish I could have been there!!Amante looks GREAT and did so WONDERFUL!My gosh Barb that boy of yours is a real treasure!!Thank you so very much for sharing the pictures with all of us that couldn't go!!!!!!!!Your friend,Moniece

[CarolU]

Wow is right! Looks like a GREAT time. I just love parades! So much fun on the horses...and of course, it works well for someone like me...I love to show off.

Awesome. Amante really is a GOOD Boy!!! I hope he gets nice massages for a few days...those hard streets are hard on them.

[swaite]

check out the look on face of the boy kneeling in the front - we saw alot of this!

http://www.2hottotrot.com/data/507/medium/kidcrowd.JPG


Here is a better view

http://www.2hottotrot.com/data/507/medium/boy1.JPG

[ErinC]

we missed JLO!!!!
check out this news link


http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/P/PEOPLE_ANTHONY_LOPEZ?SITE=MAQUI&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

[swaite]

Wow! They even mention the "high stepping show horses"

[Barbwire]

You can tell by the looks on their faces, that the pooper scoopers anxiously awaited the chance to scoop the dung of our beloved American Paso Finos. Good thing we brought enough to go around and there were no skirmishes.


http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061is_he_gonna_dump_bb_.jpg

[Barbwire]

Oh look, the beauty queens are pouting because noone is paying any attention to them...


http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Beauty_Queens_bb.jpg

[ErinC]

I think they were pissed that we got to pass them , and be before them!

LOL!!!!!

[Barbwire]

We weren't the only horses there.....

Team Disney

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061team_Disney__bb.jpg

New York's Finest

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061New_Yorks_Finest_bb.jpg

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Police_Horse_traile_rbb.jpg

[Barbwire]

Please Let Me Pet Him I bet J-Lo didn't let anyone touch her during the parade. Yes, the crowd was there to see superstars, the Pasos.



http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061see_them_smile_bb.jpg

[Barbwire]

I was going to post a lot more pics, but I bet you are bored with them already, right? :twisted:

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

I just have to say how thankful I am to Barb for letting me ride her boy Amante in the parade. It was an experience I will never forget. A big thanks to Jose and Sue for organizing and getting us all excited to go. It was something I want to do yearly for sure.

When we arrived in NYC, you could hear the crowd screaming from blocks away. It literally sounded like a rock concert w/fans screaming and cheering for the main attraction to come out.

When we finally filed into the parade, I was at the front w/Abby. The cops seemed to be rushing us to keep up with our banner, but they just didn't understand that the pasos needed room to do their thing. So for the first leg of the parade, I didn't have a lot of room to work. Jose brought up the rear and seemed to know how to stretch us out a bit so we would have some room to do our fancy foot work and get the crowd really roaring.

Amante was rock solid steady. The screaming crowd, wistles, sirens, cow bells, and millions of waving flags did not seem to phase him in the slightest. Soon I discovered that even tho Amante was not the most fino horse in the parade, he certainly had another gift. He brought smiles to so many ppl yesterday. Because of his calm nature, I was able to go right up to the lively crowd allowing the fans to reach out and touch the proud Paso Ambassador. When the crowd realized I was heading right to them.....they screamed and waved their flags more. That didn't stop Amante. He walked right over and put his head down for everyone to pet him. Children and adults alike called out to us to let us touch him. I heard comments like....
"Que Linda", "How Beautiful", "How soft".

One little girl proudly told the child next to her that this was the second time that she had touched a horse.

I saw an old ladies stroke Amante's forelock with tears dampening her face and a far off look in her eye.

But the highlight of the whole day was a moment when I walked over to the crowd, and the people separated to make room for a young boy in a wheel chair to see.
*I think I told Barb he was autistic, but I believe that was a mistake. I'm not really sure what his deal was, but I can only describe to you what I saw.

He was a boy of about 8. Black hair and equally dark eyes. When he looked up and saw Amante before him those eyes lite up. The boy had a small frame and you could see the right side of his body was slightly twisted from what ever afflicted him. He turned and looked over his shoulder to his mother who instantly knew he wanted to stand up to be closer to us. As the mother helped him stand, I nudged Amante closer and he stuck his head over the barrier and dropped it for the boy. The child stroked his face in wonder for a brief moment and then his mother seated him again. But the boy wanted more. He squirmed in his chair and although he was muttering and could not express himself, it was obvious he wanted more. So I said, "Hey Mom, he wants more!" The Mother (who probably wasnt much older than me) again helped him stand up to stroke Amante. She dug for her camera for several moments while the boy and horse ate up the moment. After the photo was taken and the boy was seated again, I looked at him and saw the thanks behind his eyes and smile. I blew him a kiss and a flood of excitment rushed over his body, his eyes flashed and he blew me a kiss right back. I looked over to the Mom who thanked me with tears in her eyes, and back at the boy. I gave him a wink and a wave, then turned and rode off (wiping tears from my own eyes). At that moment, I stopped caring about keeping up with the rest of the horses, or if I was holding up the rest of the parade, of if my horse was the most exciting to see going down the street.

After that, we concentrated on the crowd. I walked Amante ever so slowly down the side of the guard rail allowing ppl to touch him all over as we passed. Flags in his face, fingers in his ears and nose did not bother him. He patiently let everyone have turn. I am so thankful to have been riding him. If had been any other horse, I'm not so sure I would have had the same experience.

[appyday]

Awwwwwwwwwww that post made me cry..

[pasofantasy]

Me, too, so my real reply must wait for now.

[ErinC]

I am all Chocked up.

that was cool!

I have to say Abby enjoyed working the crowed like that too, once she relized the people loved it.

and her horse did not mind.

yippiee.

[dana]

Hooba, Lori! what an experience! that Amante is worth his weight in Gold! and your story?i know that boy will remember you two for life!
Horse Pucky, i sure hope none of the guys walk in the office. they're gonna wonder what i'm bawling about.
Great story and thanks to everyone for sharing the whole experience!

dana

[Laura S]

I love the pics, send MORE Barbwire!
That is a wonderful story about Amante, Lori. It is amazing how many hearts a horse can touch. Amante should go into therapy work!

[Linda Y]

More Pictures! (she says with tears rolling down her cheeks.)

How could you have even THOUGHT of selling that horse for a second! Make him a carrot cake.

[JennLM]

I am all blubbery too, what a wonderful story and mark you left on people.

[PASOFAN]

Ok, quit making me cry at work guys!! MAN, what a story Lori! it is so great, I loved all the pics and story's too, cant wait to try and see video too.. :D

[Barbwire]

Are you guys done sniffling and blowing into your tissues? Let us continue....

I would like to formally apologize to Erin for sticking her with the 4,000# red wagon. She pulled it like a little trooper and I did not hear her complain once. Also, I want to give Erin's very smart daughter kudos for not being a fool, and letting me pawn it off on her.



http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Erin_wagon_bb.jpg

[Brigitte]

Wow, great pictures looked like an AWESOME parade, and Barb you have a very special horse :D

[baileyholc]

A wonderful story Lori, the boy will remember his time with Amonte and what you did for him and you will be rewarded for it as well. Barb you have a wonderful horse. Thanks.

[Terri]

What a great story and a truly great horse.

Erin, we are getting slow in our old age. He was up for sale for 3 whole days and we weren't fast enough to grab him!!!!

[ErinC]

:roll:

hay I called her. I tried! I would have if he did not sell, and if she did not change her mind.

;-)

[Pasomom]

Holy cow, Let me wipe the tears out of my eyes so I can write! What a wonderful story and what a wonderful horse! Barb, To think you almost lost him from your life! You are truly blessed to have such a wonderful little guy!

Lori, Your story was so heartwarming I could hardly read for crying! Next year, you can plan on me going with you! N.Y. City here we come!

I can just imagine how many lives you guys touched Sunday. Thousands and thousands! I can hardly wait till next year!

[Edurne]

Pasomom, you would truly have been proud of your daughter. She was gracious and beautiful, and so good with Amante, and in recognising how she could connect with the children in the crowd. It was truly a pleasure in meeting and getting to know her better.
Edurne

[ErinC]

I could not have said that any better, so so true!

[Pasomom]

Good greif, now I am bawling again! Thanks you guys.....she was a work in progress for a long time, but I think I done good! ;-)

[Edurne]

you sure did for a gun-toting momma

[Barbwire]

Lori is the most beautiful person, inside and out, that you will ever meet. She is a treasure, and I love her like a sister.

See how she shines?

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Lori_the_queen_bb.jpg

[SandyMM]

Well - there you go, Lori - your next human-horse interest story for ShowTime is already done!

Barb, I know you are so proud of Amante - and rightly so...

[DebbieD]

Everyone looks like they had a BLAST! The pics are awesome and the story about the little boy was just heartwarming!!! All the horses looked beautiful......you guys should be really proud! Was this Amante's first parade? If it was..........I agree make that boy a carrot cake! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

:oops: Geez Barb. You're making me blush. :hug

I have to also comment on the hospitality that Barb and her family showed me while I was there. They treated me like a princess. Her son is very special, and I will be sharing a cute story about him later.

I had so much fun meeting everyone, and I look forward to it again. You guys are the best. :hug

[ErinC]

I feel so bad Abby could not get on line today to see all this.
she is going to take all day to see and read it all.

she was so proud of P.J.

She has a bunch of pic's too.

[Jose Rubero]

I saw an old ladies stroke Amante's forelock with tears dampening her face and a far off look in her eye.

This happened with other riders also. They were probably just caught up in being rock stars maybe they didn't notice... I did. Always on the lookout for reactions... either laughing, screaming, etc. When I see someone completely quiet in the midst of screaming fans I know they're holding back tears, especially if they're old enough to remember. It simply takes a moment to approach them and then they burst. So for next year keep your eye out for quiet people, approach them, and hopefully you'll have a camera nearby to catch the moment. Those moments are much more fulfilling than the screaming fans, which, I also love.

As I write this I am seeing yesterday's quiet people talking to me with their eyes... I know their happiness upon seeing the Paso Fino, I know their longing.... I know what they're saying to me. Those quiet people motivate me.
Last year (I don't recall which year-they blend together) there was an elderly woman who wouldn't let go of Cancionero's mane and neck as she cried. The screaming from the crowd stopped when she started crying, loudly. If I moved she would've been dragged. The parade group behind us passed me. She still wouldn't let go. People next to her quietly joined in "you have to let him go". I then decided to let her hold own for a little bit longer even though the other Pasos were getting farther and farther away. I finally had to move her arm away, leaned over and hugged her, wet face and all. She said "Gracias my hijo" (thank you my son). Her cries were felt throughout that whole section that knew why she cried... her longing for home, her memories about the Paso Fino. As I rode away no one screamed.

[ErinC]

it is so true, they come to the city and all that is gone. just a memory!

I did hear one woman say to the person standing next to her.
" can I ask WHY,, are there horses in this parade "
I just turned with a big smile, and said
" they are PASO FINOs the island horse!

and see this man coming toward us , he is our group leader.

that said it all.
then they waved the flag, and go it. started yelling and cheering.


the younger people just do not see what the older people see.

another younger group said they would not cheer for us because we did not have a flag.
I think that was a good point, untill the gentleman riding the black fino mare carried a flag the only flag we had was being held up with the banner.

[Barbwire]

!...Was this Amante's first parade? If it was..........I agree make that boy a carrot cake!

In the video his breeder sent me of him when I was considering purchasing, there is footage of him in a tiny parade with one other horse. This is his first big parade. People keep asking, how did I get him to be so calm. It is not me, it is his breeding and training that makes him that way.

Breed your mares to Prometido de Selecta. ;-)

[Laura S]

Hey Erin, I saw you on TV! I thought it might be you when I saw the parade on TV. You walked by the camera very quickly and you had the black hat on. It was a close up of just your head. Now that I saw you in the pic with the hat I know it was you! The only other horse I recognized was Jose and his paso. They showed him mostly and I could see other horses in the foreground, but couldn't make out which ones. Maybe next year somebody can write a little blurb about the pasos and their history, so they can at least mention them on TV!

[Laura S]

And what were you guys hiding in that BIG cooler?? 8-)

[baileyholc]

And what were you guys hiding in that BIG cooler?? 8-)

Taquila :lol:

[ErinC]

nothing good,
O MY GOD My head was on TV
wow!

[Barbwire]

(shoves Erin out of the way) Was my little red wagon on TV for real?

Hay Erin, Lori and I were thinking of using you again next year. Can you please email me your measurements so we can get a custom harness made for you?

[ErinC]

hay,,,,,,,,,, wait I already have a b/tch , Abby ............ if you want me, oooooooooooyou will have to pay!!!!!! :tongue

[Barbwire]

hay,,,,,,,,,, wait I already have a b/tch , Abby ............ if you want me, oooooooooooyou will have to pay!!!!!! :tongue

Erin, I've waited over a year to hear you say something witty.

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/forumfun/positive11.jpg

[Laura S]

No, the little red wagon I saw on the pics here. :( The only things I saw on TV were Erin's head, Jose and his horse and some distant shots of horses (but I could tell they were pasos dancing), and of course, the Corona Boobs. You guys will have to wear bathing suits while riding next year!

[ErinC]

made out of the PR flag!

good idea!

poor Jose!

[tinomino]

Speaking of the flag. I think I am going to teach Tino to carry a flag for next year. He did really good when one guy waved a flag over his head, he didn't move a muscle.

Jose, I know what you mean about the quiet ones. I noticed that too. I had one woman cry when she went to pet Tino. I wish he was better at the end about that. He was so good at the begining then he gets so excited he just wants to go.

I was so impressed with both Lori and Amante and Abby and PJ. They all did so awsome for thier first time. It's overwhelming for sure. I remember two years ago I spent most of the parade too nervous to look at the crowd most of the time and I concentrated on Tino the whole time I am sure I didn't smile once. :smile: Except when Jose yelled to remember to smile.

I have to say THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! again to Abby and Erin for picking me and Tino up. It saved me a ton of stress about trailering. And considering what happened with the floor of Jose's trailer it's a really good thing three horses weren't in there. That could have been really bad. We're very happy Nero is ok.

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

tinomino- You were so right about your boy loving to show off for the crowd. He really ate it up. 8-) You two read heads were on fire.

[tinomino]

thanks Lori. I love showing him off. It's tough sometimes though cause he just wants to go go go. The stopping and starting is hard for him.

You did awsome! I would never have known Amante hadn't done the parade before. You two looked great.

I talked to Jay today and he is going to make copies of the video he made of the parade. He said he has about an hour and a half of tape. I will make copies for anyone who wants one once he gets one to me.

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

Oh yes, I need that video for Showtime DVD 8-)

[Jose Rubero]

[quote="Maybe next year somebody can write a little blurb about the pasos and their history, so they can at least mention them on TV![/quote]

Both a detailed history and a summary that includes:
How the Paso Fino became Puerto Rico's National Horse...
its current popularity and versatility...
how its used in competitions, school clinics, breed demos and inner city cabalgatas in an attempt to involve inner city youth...
are sent with the application to the Parade committee who then forwards to WNBC. I then contect WNBC with the same information. Talking about the Paso Fino on radio and TV is my thing. I love it :).

I agree, we do need more exposure. Please think about coming out next year, you'll enjoy it. Then you fax/call/email, fax/call/email your local TV/radio/newspapers stating that me, the local girl is doing this... and I enjoy the Paso because... the smoothest riding horse in the world... our group has became the main event... and my horse is like this and he likes that... he's __ yrs old...they came from Spain... they ride like.... (Even if you're NOt coming out you can contact asking for coverage)

Then you add to that a scheduled media photo (keep calling) of you and your Paso with a nice background (town park, your yard, Maine is SO beautiful) eating grass... Ask for front coverage, they'll love it...even if you don't get front coverage.
Guarantee them (for another interview after the event) a
phenomenal(sp?) photo of you in the Parade and an attempt to get a great video for TV. Paint the picture to them.

You'll enjoy The Parade immensely :)

[Trudy]

The horses all look beautiful and the pictures are great!

[Jasfino]

What great pics.. and stories of how paso's connect with the audience! That is what makes the paso fino so special. They are so expressive and are great communicators. :D

Thanks for sharing and being such great ambassadors for the breed!

[fspasos]

kudos to all of you who worked so hard and so fast to pull this together...all this just helps the cause of putting people and horses together,no matter the culture...and it seems that Barb has found her horse eh?..hope his previous owners get to see these pics of him...

[ErinC]

LORI put us on the home page of the B.B.

it looks great!

[hast]

Wow, I'm going between crying and laughing here. What an experience you had... I so wish I could get there with my boy too :lol:

[TrueStepPaso]

Okay...first off, you guys have NO IDEA how INSANE that was...pictures, and small videos do it NO JUSTICE. It was sooo loud and crazy...you just go into shock.....I think thats why the horses do so well, too.

Speaking of "no justice".....pictures give you no warning about how beautiful Lori is when you meet her in person. Now I know why my interview on TV didn't get televised, and her (must have) did. Hubba Hubba....

Kelley......PLEASE tell Jay & Mari that I will eat bugs to get that video if I have to...seriously. I've gotta have one.

**NOTE**
I had a similar experience with the crowd............at one point when we were all waiting for the banner to get ahead so we could take off/show off, I had a cop approach me and ask if I could bring my horse over to a particular woman. I said of course, and approached the crowd....like Lori's story, some people moved out of the way, and there was an older woman in a wheelchair reaching out for Pj. I urged him towards her, and she just started crying and sobbing words in Spanish. I was shocked, and suddenly became very emotional with her....she was lovingly stroking him, and putting her face on his....it was heartbreaking. Her and her husband thanked me profusely...it was very emotional. I had tears flowing up into my eyes. I thanked them and caught up to the parade. From then on, I was on the look out for elderly people and children.

I made it a point to side pass down the barriers and get the crowd going, but I kept a sharp eye on who I should circle back for. It never stopped amazing me how EVERYONE LOVED the horse though.

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

Thanks for the compliments Abby. You too are one smoking hottie. 8-) It was great to be in the lead w/you at the start of the parade. I'm glad you got to have a similar experience to mine. It really was an emotional day. And like you, after I realized where the real crowd pleasing was at....I let Amante do his job. 8-)

[TrueStepPaso]

Thanks Lori! You really are one hot Latina though...yeowza :shock:

Amante looked awesome! You did a great job with him....he was such a little crowd monger...he LOVED it! What a special guy!

BTW...I'm glad we lead the parade together. I was proud......I just wish I matched up to your cool outfit. Next year I'm gonna dress up more 8-)

[Barbwire]

Enough of the chit chat, let's show the folks some more pics!

You can see the Empire State Building in the background

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061empire_state_bldg_bb.jpg

Truestep - Ain't she sizzlin'?


http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061abby_smile-med.jpg

[Edurne]

nice portraits Barb, the ones of shining Lori and sizzling Abby

[Barbwire]

I just love the look on that red boy's face. So pretty!

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061tinomino_bb.jpg

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

Thanks Lori! You really are one hot Latina though...yeowza :shock:

Amante looked awesome! You did a great job with him....he was such a little crowd monger...he LOVED it! What a special guy!

BTW...I'm glad we lead the parade together. I was proud......I just wish I matched up to your cool outfit. Next year I'm gonna dress up more 8-)

Well, I fool a lot of latinos into believing I am one too. ;-) They don't all know my name in Miami, but they know the white girl that looks latin. :lol:

Next year, I better have that darn dress to wear by then. :twisted:

The question is....what is BARB gonna wear. There is NO telling how she will dress Amante. :shock:

[Barbwire]

I was thinking of going with this look. You likey?

http://www.jammerbabe.com/flotilla/images/smiles/cabanagirl.gif

[Abejita]

except all the horses will want to eat your hat and not visit with the crowd!

[Barbwire]

Lori!! Insert anecdote here.

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

I will, but I gotta run a lunch errond. Be back w/humorous story.........soon.

[Fino1]

WOWZIE!

This whole post is SO emotional!
The 'crowd' stories are real tear jerkers for sure.

You guys ROCK! AND bless your special equine partners. They are priceless.

Judy

[Barbwire]

That Amante was quite the camera hog. Every time I tried to get a shot of the scenery, he kept popping his head into the picture. :roll:

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061camera_hog_bb-med.jpg

[PASOFAN]

All the pics are so great!! What a weekend!!

[Barbwire]

Of the roughly 180 pics I took this weekend, this is one of my favorites. This was Lori's first ride on Amante. If you look closely, you can see they are strangers to one another. Each one seems a bit edgy. Now compare this photo to the parade photos and you with see a trust has developed between the two. They were a team, a team whose beauty absolutely lit up Manhattan.

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Lori_amante_graftonbb.jpg

The fino filly was rearing to go!

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061fino_rear__bb-med.jpg

That's right Sue, he is a "Good boy!"

http://gallery.pethobbyist.com/data/65061Sues_good_boybb__.jpg

[TrueStepPaso]

Lori.....you're not Latina? :oops: Oh well...take it as a compliment, cuz they are SMOKIN HOT!!!! :shock:

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

Lori.....you're not Latina? :oops: Oh well...take it as a compliment, cuz they are SMOKIN HOT!!!! :shock:

Thanks Abby. ;-) Sometimes the guys like to argue w/me that I AM Latina. I just must be :shock: But you can't deny my accent and lack of spanish speaking skills.

[tinomino]

Ok I have to take back what I said to everyone. Damn Barb is GOOD!! FINALLY a picture of Tino with his darn ears forward. I have been trying for years to get a good picture of him with his ears forward. LOL Now if only his mom looked as good. :smile:

[ErinC]

I got ears up and sleeping
http://i5.tinypic.com/14b6vz9.jpg
http://i6.tinypic.com/14b6w7k.jpg

[tinomino]

thanks erin those are really cute pictures of him :smile:

[tinomino]

Ok here's my Pics. Thanks Allie for taking them :smile:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g303/tinomino/251627-R1-13-12A.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g303/tinomino/251627-R1-02-1A.jpg

Who Knows what I was doing here, But Tino looks so cute as usual
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g303/tinomino/251628-R1-21-20A.jpg

[tinomino]

Ok only a few more :smile:

This horse ALWAYS looks great
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g303/tinomino/251627-R1-20-19A.jpg

Marie Smoozes with the crowd
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g303/tinomino/251627-R1-10-9A.jpg

[Laura S]

OK, Jose, I am seriously thinking about joining you all next year. I have been so caught up in the whole spirit of the parade and really loved the pics and stories. I will start training Mirage to get used to all that stimuli! I have a connection with one of the newspapers, so maybe you can help me with the story, etc. after next year's parade. Also, they may have covered more on the pasos on the Fox tv station and I could have missed it, as I only saw about the last hour of it. You do a wonderful job promoting the breed. And you ALL looked wonderful and did tons to promote the breed at the parade!!

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

That would be SO cool if we had a whole herd of apf'ers next year. 8-) Come one come all!

[ErinC]

question from a good Paso friend
""Do you know if anyone is writing up something for the Paso Fino Horse World Magazine.....that's the stuff that needs to be in there.....people having fun with their horses.....promoting the breed. Kudos to all of you!!!""

[Edurne]

We leave the glory, the publicity, and the marketing to Princesita Lori. It's a good job she's young :D

[Edurne]

We've heard some tender stories about the parade, but I want to tell one that I found amusing and visually funny.

A gentleman..... not this one, but one like him

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g196/Edurne_2006/brooksbros2.jpg

asked Jose about the Paso Finos. As Jose started to answer him the other horses left, and Jose's horse whinnied. At that point the man threw himself backward away from Jose & "mi negrito". Jose persues him and says, "wait wait, you asked I'm going to tell you about these horses, paso fino means..... Poor man, still so terrified of "mi negrito" and standing at an acute angle away from them desperately trying to run away, but being held by Jose's charismatic eyes and manner. Perhaps he was afraid that "mi negrito" would eat him or perhaps slobber on him.

[CarolU]

Now THAT is a funny story.

It's easy when you live/breath and associate only with fellow horsemen to forget that there are people who have never touched one and are afraid of them. We had a soldier come for Christmas once, he was from the projects in LA. He'd never been around any animal except drug dealers dogs. He was terrified of all ours - even KD when she was a tiny puppy. It was very sad really.

[TrueStepPaso]

Um...what does "mi negrito" mean.... :oops: ....

[paintedhorizon]

Those stories brought tears to my eyes!

[motorgypsy]

"my little black one" negro is the color black and negrito is little black one.

[TrueStepPaso]

Thanks MG's :D

[Barbwire]

Lori!! Insert anecdote here.

Lori????Lori???

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

[quote=Barbwire C.]Lori!! Insert anecdote here.

ok. see the guy in the straw hat here...
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b385/pasogirlz/hatbb.jpg

There was a lady holding one of these in her hand as she petted Amante w/the other. Everyone was cooing over him and saying how pretty he was....when all of a sudden, he grabbed the hat right out of her hand and started muching! :shock: The poor lady grabbed her hat and had to fight and yank it away from him. The crowd was hysterical. :lol: I was dying of embarrasment of course, but the lady didn't seem to mind and told him she was sorry he could not have it. ;-)

[TrueStepPaso]

Oh my gawd, Lori... I saw that! I thought that was so funny, too! Amante was like, "Thanks lady, how thoughtful of you to make me a hat out of hay...you really didn't have to....mmmm, a little on the stale side..."

[Edurne]

can't see picture

[Barbwire]

duplicate pic deleted

[Heidi]

Too funny! Amante eating a hat!

[GeorgeGuns]

OMG I am thoroughly enjoying this thread, tears and all. I am most touched by the stories of the older people, so in love with their families here, yet so connected eternally to the land of their youth. These horses must be like a breath of spring air with a special tang they thought they might never feel again. How very awesome.

[Paso Matchmaker Extraordinaire]

Oh my gawd, Lori... I saw that! I thought that was so funny, too! Amante was like, "Thanks lady, how thoughtful of you to make me a hat out of hay...you really didn't have to....mmmm, a little on the stale side..."

:shock: He really was! :lol:

[Jose Rubero]

We've heard some tender stories about the parade, but I want to tell one that I found amusing and visually funny.

A gentleman..... not this one, but one like him

[See above, Previous posted photo by Edurne]

asked Jose about the Paso Finos. As Jose started to answer him the other horses left, and Jose's horse whinnied. At that point the man threw himself backward away from Jose & "mi negrito". Jose persues him and says, "wait wait, you asked I'm going to tell you about these horses, paso fino means..... Poor man, still so terrified of "mi negrito" and standing at an acute angle away from them desperately trying to run away, but being held by Jose's charismatic eyes and manner. Perhaps he was afraid that "mi negrito" would eat him or perhaps slobber on him.

Edurne, I am so surprised that you [my man :) ] didn't notice that MAN was a WOMAN. Maybe when she was crouched back in an acute angle you didn't see the noticeable signs that she was a she. It may have been her scream that came out a little different thus confusing you.

Did you notice the police officer just next to her who had a great laugh at the way she crouched and ran back?

[Edurne]

[quote="Jose Rubero"]
Edurne, I am so surprised that you [my man :) ] didn't notice that MAN was a WOMAN.

I do seem to have some sort of sexual confusion going on. :confused but that shouldn't matter in this day & age. :D

[tinomino]

Lori, I saw Amante eat the hat too!!! :lol: It was so funny. I thought I was gonna die. It would have been great if he'd really taken it, but the good boy he is he didn't take off with it. Tino so would have started to walk away with it.

[Colette C]

These posts are such a joy to read! I can feel the energy :jumpy

[Barbwire]

I am trying to book Yucko the Clown to ride Amante in next year's parade. I left a message with his peeps, but I haven't heard back yet. Keep yer fingers crossed.

[ErinC]

no barb, you need a HOT latina , in her duds to ride!
NOT A CLOWN!

[Barbwire]

Do you even know who Yuckoo the Clown is? Google him. Go ahead, we'll wait.

[ErinC]

I still do not thinkg he will look good on a paso
http://www.yuckotheclown.com/yuckodvd.jpg

[Barbwire]

Very nice work. Now, did ya see his video in your search :?: Betcha did, why don't you be a dear and share it with the good folks here on the board? Dare ya. :twisted: :twisted:

[ErinC]

:shock:

[Barbwire]

Dang! I couldn't get you into trouble if I tried! Do ya want me to try? :D

[ErinC]

LOL,,,, OOOOO if you only knew!
I am not all that good :roll:

[Bella-Vista]

Well :razz: I'm finally logged in.
Thanks Lori for your help.
This was my first NY parade and I enjoyed it just as much as everyone that has put up postings and pics.
I have approx 80 minutes of video on VHS. I have to figure out how to transfer it on to DVD and try to post some of it.
I couldn't believe how well all the horses did on that long slippery 5th ave.
there was an area where one of the floats broke down and leaked oil all over the road. Talk about slipping :shock: I tried to warn everyone .

Can someone tell me how to load pics :lol:

[ErinC]

WELCOME..............

you have to let the people of the board know what pretty horse you were riding.

;-)

[Edurne]

Welcome Bella Vista, are you the lady in the Pink Hat riding the Work of Art?

[Bella-Vista]

Thanks for welcome. :jumpy

Yes, that's my hat.

That work of art is Siete Potencias del Brujo ( Brujo de Kofresi) the only Pure Puertorican horse in the parade, at 25 years young.

What a blast we had , difinetly looking forward to next year. The most impressive part of the parade for me was when we made our way on to 5th Ave. The roar of the crowd when they saw us come around the corner was deafning. It was soooooooo loud. It seemed to bounce off the tall building like ping pong ball. You knew right away that it was going to be a challenge for the horses. But thank God , all the horses did fine. It was like they knew it was time to shine.

At first we were paired up and as the parade went on we just started showing off our horses gaiting abilities , from Fino , Pleasure , Performance Corto and Largo. Jose was the one that got the crowd into it as always.
Then we all started to walk the horses closer to the crowd and they were LOVING IT! They asked us questions about the horses and where we were from, if it was an organization , riding club Etc. we were mingling with the crwd on our HORSES! WEAAAAPAAAAA!!!

[Edurne]

Your husband rode him with a lot of style.

[ErinC]

Are you going to take her to the breed demo too?

[Bella-Vista]

Sorry :oops:
I went back to change a spelling error on my previous post and went on babbling about the parade.

My Husband is going to take the Fino Mare (Alfosina) to the Demo and this Time he will be riding her.
At the parade he let our friend Landy ride her. He wanted to be able to video. He finally got to ride Bruja ( my mare) towards the end of the parade.

[TrueStepPaso]

Hi Mari (spelling? :oops: )!!!!! So nice to hear from you! You and Jay are a couple of DOLLS....so sweet! I loved your horses, too! They did awesome....they all did!

I am so excited to get a copy of the video.....Kelley said Jose was going to try and make copies for everyone.....let me know if there is ANYTHING I can do to help with that (postage $, shipping/handling $, VHS/DVD's, whatever).

You described the best part....when we were about to turn onto 5th Ave! The roar of the crowd was indescribable...they were going crazy for us!!!! My favorite word to use for the parade is "insane".

I can't wait to see you two again at the breed demo! :D

[TrueStepPaso]

ERIN......why, may I ask, did you take down that adorable picture of Allie on my beautiful Pj......I loved it :cry:

[ErinC]

better ;-)

[TrueStepPaso]

YAAAAAY! Wooooo Hoooo!http://www.websmileys.com/sm/cool/653.gif

[GregM]

OK, it's been 4 days and I still can't read this thread without getting so caught up in it. What you all have done is just incredible, you have so much to be proud of. Wow! does not go nearly far enough.
WEPA!

[TrueStepPaso]

Thanks GregM! I just came down from my high recently, but I'm still pinching myself.......I CAN'T wait till next year!

[ErinC]

I think I just came back down lastnight.

now where can I buy a box of flags????

I am going to tie them around my whole farm! ;-)

[TrueStepPaso]

Oh yeah...we def need flags for next year...that will really get the crowd going!

Maybe the girls can wear flag bikinis....YA RIGHT!
:twisted:
:roll:

[Jose Rubero]

OK, it's been 4 days and I still can't read this thread without getting so caught up in it. What you all have done is just incredible, you have so much to be proud of. Wow! does not go nearly far enough.
WEPA!

Greg, when I invited I stated "this experience will stay with you all year" I meant it. Descriptions "better than....... incredible, awesome, have no words to describe, etc" have been used and rightfully so. I try to stay away from reading posts so I can calm down but I can't.

I expect some if not all of the riders to, after some months where no mention has been made about The Parade, to feel the need to post and talk about it again....

[Edurne]

perhaps some of the walkers as well

[ErinC]

Ditto!

it was the time of my LIFE!

[Jose Rubero]

Yes Walkers as well!

Edurne, I just saw your face again :)

[Edurne]

It's always good to make an impression. :D

[GeorgeGuns]

Shoot, I wasn't even there and I am feeling it.

[TrueStepPaso]

Jose.....that is too funny, because its so TRUE! That is all I want to talk about ....with EVERYONE! Especially here though.
If everyone from this board had gone, the post regarding the parade would NEVER fizzle out...at least not til the next NY PR parade :razz:

It was disappointing there weren't more responses....but that is because they weren't there, so they don't appreciate the sheer exhilaration that stays with you from the parade.....

I'm sure we ALL will be going through withdrawals soon and need to re-post. ;-)

[swaite]

The little demo in July will help with the withdrawals!

[Jose Rubero]

It was disappointing there weren't more responses....but that is because they weren't there, so they don't appreciate the sheer exhilaration that stays with you from the parade.....


Abbie, please consider the following:

My Open Invite for 2006 Posted March 27, '06 (2 months 23 days):
(5/25/06 Update...): 256 posts, 4955 views

Related posts since actual parade date (8 days):
Barbara's(The '06 National...; Go Ahead bite...)
Lori (Roll Call)
Edurne (Noo Yawk..)
ErinC (Jose & Sue)
GeorgeGuns (PR Parade 2007): 432 posts, 6005 views

Those numbers show a lot of interest. They also show a lot of appreciation. Many of the replies from others who didn't attend have a general "good job folks....I feel it also!...I want to go...". In addition to that, people here and elsewhere are already starting the process/planning and commiting to go! So, we're doing good :)

[Edurne]

We are all so busy that sometimes we don't look at all the posts on the board. I didn't view the invitational post by Jose until the week before the event because my life was such that I didn't think I would be free to go. I never thought I would even contemplate riding in a Parade, let alone going to one. My experience as a walker changed my mind regarding this one.

and perhaps people just got tired of us "going on about it". :D

[TrueStepPaso]

:lol: HA! Edurne....I know, we do keep going on about it......................everyone must look like this ----> :roll:

Jose....its only been 8 days! ;-) I know, I know, everyone's jealous....J/K :razz: Hopefully everyone stays interested til next year, so we can get those numbers UP!
See ya at the Demo! YAY!

[Terri]

Abby I love reading through all your posts and feeling your excitement, so please keept talking about it. I just don't know what else to say, I wasnt' there and keep wishing I was. But I am such a whimp it will probably take you and Erin hog tying me and MAKING me go have a good time to get over all my "what ifs". I know, from every thing you have said and written that it was an event of a life time. And I am very proud of every one (equine and human) that went!

[TrueStepPaso]

Aaaww, thanks T! :D You're so sweet....of course I'm going to make you go next year. And you'll exhaustedly thank Erin & I for it through your permanent smile on the long, filled-with-excited-chatter, ride home. ;-)

[dana]

i LOVED hearing about every single thing that happened! and described from so many ways gave a person alot of great perspectives.
(okay, how come there's no icon for a little green monster?)

some of us will never make it to new york in the rest of our lifetimes so we have to live thru you guys! thanks for taking us along!

dana

[TrueStepPaso]

Your welcome Dana! ;-)