July 16th, 2013
In July we marked the beginning of our resident program. With the bunkhouse officially operational we had our first warriors from Arkansas and Raton, NM up and running in our Self paced and objective based Cowboy Up! program. The bunkhouse will also allow us to achieve the next level of resilience by being able to string training days together and immerse in the program. Immersion and consistency in training is the key to excellence.
Beginning with ground work to ensure our veterans can use non-verbal communication and energy to move horses along like they do in nature.
Here Nancy De Santis Cowboy Up! Director illustrates how we drive Houdini by using
proper body position.
Michael Bains, USAF, ventures to work Jack in the round pen after observing Nancy's work with Houdini.
As Monty Roberts calls it... Join Up! There is nothing like the feeling of partnering with your horse.
Acknowledging and rewarding Jack ~ just beautiful.
July 17th, 2013
Having been here a few days already
Michael teaches newcomer Michael Pais, USA all about how to approach and enter a horses personal space respectfully.
Michael further illustrates the art of partnership with our newest herd member Mr. Star.
Michael works with Knight, dusting off his training from back in the day and open to a new way of being with horses.
Doesn't get better than that!
July 18th, 2013
Working with our horses from the ground not only builds a good bond, but it also helps us to understand how we move in the world.
July 19th, 2013
Having a break from the New Mexico sun, we welcome a rest on the porch
while we receive much needed rain!
Chris Schiano, (USArmy) with Executive director Rick Iannucci and Michael Pais.
Rain!
Thea heavy Rain brought a Fast and Furious flood down the road...
...so much that our nearby arroyo flooded taking out several yards of fenceline ~ so the next day Rick and Michael were off to help program partner Henry McKinley mend fence at his Staple Cross Ranch.
After having seen the arroyo run which hadn't run in over twenty years, we took a walk behind the house to make sure water wasn't doing any damage ~ it had run, but luckily it passed right through.
July 20th, 2013
Getting horseback and preparing for the next day of moving cattle.
July 21st, 2013
With the drought there is a lot of gathering from one pasture to
the next so that each can replenish.
Knight's first ride out with us on the range ~ great job Knight!
Tres Amigos!
Homeward bound... seven hours of riding & working... done!
July 31st, 2013
Early morning and back in the saddle!
Demonstrating the seated trot.
August 3rd, 2013
The Maverick Working Ranch Cowboy Association Rodeo!
Maverick Randy Chambers carrying the flag for the National Anthem.
Prayer before Play...
Bucking Broncs.
Preparation.
Just like the ranches they work on~ Cowboys don't stop for rain!
Rick Iannucci and Dr. Kris Wilson of the historic Bell Ranch.
Our newest Program Partners, proud to have you aboard Kris ~
We sure do thank you for the opportunity!
August 7th, 2013
Nice clear day for more training!
Under the watchful eye of Cowboy Up! Instructor Eric Yorty.
