Memoir

Christine Mikelson

The fall of 2010, my horse, Psych Clone and I were riding at the Minnesota 4H State Horse Show. We worked up to this point all summer showing at multiple horse shows around the area and finally earned a trip to State for the first time. But little did I know what I was getting myself into while preparing for the state competition. It was a show like none other that I had participated in. Contradictory to what I was expecting, it was a long grueling event that brought me a influential life experience that I will never forget..

The summer before the state show, Psych Clone and I were having a great season of showing. It was our second year together and our many hours of bonding brought us the beginning of our connection and relationship. Things were going well and I was learning more and more about my new horse and how he rides. I had bought him from another 4H family and his bloodlines proved excellency. We had accomplished a lot in a short time and felt prepared for the State horse show.

When we got to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, excitement was in the air. The atmosphere surrounding me was filled with anxiousness of other contestants awaiting the show just like I had been. Before I knew it, the time had come for my first event with Psych Clone- Western Pleasure. At the time, this was the class in which I felt most comfortable and confident in. Because of the huge amount of participants in the classes, I thought this class was the one I would have a chance to most likely place in. I also figured Psych Clone would do as well as he did in our past shows, but he had other plans.

I continually tried keeping my nerves down as I waited outside the colosseum in which we rode in. I stayed as calm as possible so that Psych Clone would be calm also. I lightly stoked his neck and spoke soft words of encouragement to him.

“Thats my good boy Psych Clone, you can do it.” I said reassuringly Finally the time to enter the arena came. I flashed a confident smile and trotted on in. Then Psych Clones eyes were opened to a large echoing arena lined with bright white, enclosing walls and then my ride of a lifetime began. He started off with a few hops and bucks which I managed to control at first. He became more overwhelmed by the many horses and strange, scary arena by the second.

When we were told to move into the lope the disaster grew. He pulled all sorts of moves that guaranteed no place in the top ten for me. I had never seen him freak out as badly as he did and I knew then that I had lost the class already, now my goal was just to stay on. The more I tried to correct him or sooth him, the worse he got. My trainer was standing by the railing above us and tried to help. She told me to switch to two hands on my Rommel reigns. This is a disqualifying move but I had nothing to loose and it would give me greater control over my horse.

I did all I could to not get thrown and to not be a danger to the other riders. The class seemed to last for hours but was really only a few minutes. Relief filled me when I finally heard the announcer tell us to line up in the middle of the arena to wait for the placings. Here Psych Clone started dancing in place, although I was offered to exit the arena early, I was determined to make him stand still and wait until we were dismissed. After some hard work he finally settled down. As I already knew I did not place in that class. Outside the coliseum, I hopped off Psych Clone and my legs quivered underneath me. They were exhausted from constantly gripping the saddle in order to stay on. The class was over, and I did it; I had stayed on and managed to stay safe.

I was then confronted by multiple different friends and strangers who commended me on my ability to hang on and push through tough rides.

“Your a good little rider with that horse of yours. You handled it very well.” one said.

“Most people would have just giving up right away with the way he was actin instead of making him do it. Good job!” another told me. So then I knew I had accomplished more than what was apparent, I knew I could do it now and it wasn't going to get much worse than that. I also was not mad at Psych Clone at all, because I love him unconditionally and was ready to rise up to the challenge as I still had three more classes ahead of me in the next few days.

So then it was time to work, Psych Clone was not going to get away with another ride like he had last time and he knew it. I woke up every morning for the next three days we were there, at 5 AM or before just to get in the the colosseum for the short hour it was open for anyone to ride in. I desperately needed to get him used to being in the horribly scary place for our next classes. It was packed inside that arena but each morning he gradually became more comfortable there. The rest of the day I was with my horse every second. Whether it was lunging in circles so long I nearly fell over from dizziness, riding in the warm up arena , cleaning him up for the show ring, or just sitting with him. I also just spent time in the saddle and prepared his mind by gently reminding him that there's no more messing around and that there's nothing to be afraid of, yet still allowing him enough time to rest and not get overworked.

Each of the last three classes got better and better and by the last class he did perfect! I can't begin to tell you how overwhelming the feeling of accomplishment was. All the hard work with little sleep, that left me so tired and weak that at times I could barely recollect what was happening around me, had definitely payed off. We also ended up placing very well in two of my hunt seat classes. Most of all I grew as a rider tremendously, now I have what it takes to endure anything Psych Clone throws at me. My horse also has a greater respect for me and has become even more of my best friend. We made it through a struggle together and it strengthen our relationship into the wonderful team we are today.

Happy Mother's Day

Christine Mikelson

A role model to me is someone that I can admire by the way they live and I can strive to be like them. One person that comes to my mind when thinking of a role model in my life is my mom. What she does every day for all others around her amazes me. She is definitely someone that I can look up to and I am so very grateful that God put her in my life.

My mom’s name is Linda, which means “pretty” in Spanish, and its appropriately fitting for her. Of course, that characteristic runs in the family! She is a nurse who works at Rice Hospital. Her natural caring personality is part of what makes her very good at what she does. My mom is the least selfish person in the world. She never thinks of herself because she is too busy thinking of everyone else first. This is one just one part of her that I strive to be like every day.

Another important attribute that my mom possesses, is that she is a very strong

Christian. This is a major part of what makes her a great example. She has been through so much and is still without a doubt, the happiest person I know. The joy that God gives her is apparent to everyone around her. She is a witness that shines her light

by living her life as an example of Jesus Christ. People notice what is different about her and they can easily tell that she is living for God. Day by day she reminds me just by how she acts of how important it is to live everyday to the fullest because each day is a gift from God.

My mom means so much to me. In my entire life, I have never seen her in a bad mood or anything. She always knows how to make me feel better. She can calm me or comfort me when I need it, and she always understands. I could be having the worst day ever and she could lift my spirits and encourage me. My mom is the first person I go to with a problem, struggle, or when in need of some advice. There has been multiple times where I couldn’t have made it through it without her. She is always there for me and has never let me down. My mother does unending amounts of things for me every day. I can’t express enough gratitude that can measure up to everything she does.

I am very grateful to have a mom like mine. She is the most caring, loving, and generous woman I know. I’m so blessed to be her daughter and I thank God everyday for giving me a mother like her.

Any topic Essay- History of the Arabian Breed
Christine Mikelson

   
    The world's oldest breed of horse are the most athletic and beautiful equines.  They are  known as the Arabians.  The Arabian breed has a rich history that helped shape the characteristics that they posses  today.  Now they are one of the most commonly used breeds in America and have produced lines of outstanding offspring that excel in competitive performance and also trail activities.  This unique breed is know for its incredible energy, intelligence, endurance, and gentle ability to bond easily with humans.
    The Arabian breed originated from the deserts of the Middle East and lived among the tribes in the Arabian peninsula.  First breed by the Bedouin tribes, they were used as war mounts.  Because of the harsh conditions these horses developed extreme stamina and endurance along with a large lung capacity.  The Bedouins maintained the purity of the breed with very selective breeding practices.  Therefore a purebred Arabian today is virtually the same as those ridden long ago.  This horse soon became a prized treasure and often a  man's wealth was judged by his possession of this fine animal. 
    The spreading of the Arabian breed was greatly influenced by Muhammad.  He told his followers to look after and treat the horses kindly.  Since he proclaimed that Allah had created the breed,  he taught that whoever cared for the horses appropriately would be rewarded in the afterlife.  As these animals were treated with such affection and attention, they easily developed bondage for humans and this carries out today with many of the horse's owners.  Also as a result they adapted high intelligence. 
    Many famous leaders and historically important people owned and rode  Arabian horses.  They were of much use and still are today.  Everything done in the past to preserve and sustain the breed has made the Arabian horse what we know now.  They are distinctive built with dished faces, wide set expressive eyes, small curved ears and large efficient nostrils.  They also have thin skin from staying cool in the hot desert and long eyelashes to keep the sand out from the many sand storms.
    This breed is extremely appreciated for its beauty and usefulness in almost every area of riding, especially the endurance races that are clearly dominated by Arabians.  They have developed many unique characteristics that separate them from other breeds.   Arabians can be a life long partner to a human and come with multiple different features that make the breed so superior.  Their long history of being a magnificent horse lives on today as they continue to amaze everyone with their incredible influence in the horse world.

Compare and Contrast Essay

There’s tense excitement in the atmosphere, a packed crowd cheering, and the most beautiful horses in the nation showing at top level in an arena. Darkness blankets the stands as a stoplight follows the horses when they prance through the green shaving coated arena. They float in the air and come down only to lightly prick their hooves on the ground. The crowd watches in anticipation and awe as the amazing athletes pass by. If you’re looking for a fun and enjoyable time, the Arabian National Horse Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma is where you should go.

In the past two years, I attended and competed at two different National Horse Shows. Arabian Nationals was my first one and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. Then the next year I went to Quarter Horse Congress; this show proved to be no comparison to the Arabian show. Each show was composed of a different breed which makes for the largest contrast between the two. Quarter Horses and Arabians are breeds of total opposite but one clearly exceeds in the category of entertainment and that is the Arabians. At Quarter Horse Congress the classes are completely on the other end of the spectrum from the other. Quarter Horse Congress is the largest one breed show in the nation. The classes in this show drag on and on as they move so slowly. The horses are also world class but the breed is to be shown in such a way that the horses are forced to move in a completely unnatural manner that looks almost painful to the horses. The horses are built bulky and not nearly as agile. Their unnaturally slow executed gaits make for typically boring classes no matter what the event. The crowd is not allowed to cheer for the competitors during the classes. The only noise present in the arena is the subtle low playing of slow country songs in the background. The atmosphere is so drastically different as it’s stiff and sleepy at the Quarter Horse Congress.

In high contrast, Arabian National's atmosphere is undeniably more ecstatic and intriguing. The onlookers are highly encouraged to scream and holler for the horses in the arena because it makes the fine boned Arabians more hyped up so that they may show more extravagantly. Also the barns and arena are fancier and more elaborately decorated.

Everyone who has been to both shows can’t deny the fact that Arabian horse show was clearly more exciting. No matter which breed one prefers, the opinion will be a majority of the same. Most would find a more entertaining time at Arabian Nationals over Quarter Horse Congress. If one asked which show would be recommended, I, along with many others, would strongly suggest the Arabian Nationals. So if you’re ever looking for a fun and good time you should definitely go to the Arabian Horse Show.

Persuasive Essay

Since I have become part of the 4H club in my area I have learned more than I ever imagined, made a lot of new friends, and have had amazing experiences that I will remember the rest of my live. Joining 4H can open up a world of new opportunities that prepare you to further succeed in life.

The amount of doors that 4H can open for you are endless. There is a wide variety of activities that are available for anyone. 4H gets you involved in your community and helping others around you. It also prepares young kids to be good citizens in the future. Another valuable lesson 4H can teach you is responsibility. This attribute must be used in most everything done in 4H.

Picking a club near you is an easy first step to take. Then you can choose multiple different project areas to do also. Signing up for these projects means that you must put an entry of something relating to the project in the country fair. Because there is such a wide variety of projects to do, everyone can find the perfect one for them according to their interests and fortes. There is something for everyone in 4H.

There is also a large number of leadership opportunities. Each club needs club officers and that is highly encouraged to any member. It teaches you how to take authority and be a leader to others. Also many things are done that require speaking skills. No matter if you naturally have that talent or not, 4H can help you develop or improve at this very important aspect of life. When I first joined in on the fun of 4H, I had no idea what the experience was going to bring me, but I soon realized how much it helped in shaping me to have a successful future and applying valuable life lessons.

Not only is 4H an educational expansion, it is very much an enjoyable and fun time. I have made so many new friends since I joined and have had more fun than I ever expected. Some of the friends that kids make can be from all over the state. The exposure that 4H brings to you is unlimited. State and National trips that can be earned are one of the best experiences also. With 4H the possibilities are plentiful and it's a great chance to dream big and accomplish more than you can imagine.

I am so grateful for the opportunity of 4H and what it has done for me. I am also very glad I joined 4H and I believe anyone who gets involved with it will be greatly influenced by the amount of change and growth they find in themselves. I believe that if more young kids joined 4H our world would be better prepared for the future and highly equipped with more leaders within the coming generation. So make the extremely worthwhile decision today and get enrolled in 4H!

True Friends 

I’m running; pushing my legs as hard as they can go. My long powerful strides carry me faster and faster. My hooves pound the ground, shaking the hard earth below me. Gently flying in the breeze is my long flowing mane, falling gracefully from my neck. Each shiny hair composes my brilliant coat that reflects the golden sunshine. I am a wild horse. They call me a mustang. I am the best of the best; a playful untamed spirit daring temptation and seeking adventure. The open land begs for exploration that conceals dangers around every bend. It is my home; it’s what they call the “wild”. But the wild would be of no such name without the essence of its prized and magnificent wild horses.

ऀI hear the rumbling of many footsteps following close behind me. I am the proud stallion in the lead of my pack. We are all one in the same, bound together by the strength of a family. We run free and fearless. The sound of our storming heard breaks the deafening silence brought forth from the calm peacefulness of the open land. We are hidden in the vast plains of a large valley surrounded by towering mountains that were blanketed by a heavily wooded forest. Eagles soar above us accompanied by the small birds chirping from the treetops. The fresh pine sent lingered in the air as the sun’s warm rays beamed down heating the earth. The slight calm breeze rustled the rolling sea of tall wild grass. Blossoming flowers added a dash of color to the lush green landscape.

ऀOur herd stopped at the creek bed to take a drink. We then roamed around grazing on the fresh grass. I sniffed the ground with my nose searching for a treat to nibble on, when suddenly a sharp pain struck me in the mussel. It sent a wave of reacting nerves shooting through my body. I screeched in terror; my shrill sound echoed threw the valley bouncing violently off the tree barriers. It was then when I took off at a bolt, and it was also then when I spent my last few seconds of freedom as a wild horse sprinting away.

ऀI kept running for what felt like eternity. I went deeper and deeper into the forest. I had thought I was running so long that I about to drop off the end of the earth, until I had gone so far that I reached a clearing. The thick trees were behind me and a meadow lay out in front of me. I had thought the woods went on forever, touching the end of the earth, but I had run clear past them and exceeded their little known limits. I had not the slightest idea where I was located but I was escaping the terrible thing that behind me that sent me into a whirl wind of agonizing hurt and fear all in a few short moments. I had no doubt in the world of what caused this pain upon me; I had been bit by a rattlesnake. The vicious venom was seeping through my blood. I had seen this happen once before to a horse from my herd. He had not made it through the struggle for his life, but that was not me, I was going to fight of the pain no matter how hard it was. The pain grew stronger with each step and it seemed to continue to consume my whole body until, finally, I was overcome. I became extremely faint and weak, everything around me spun in circles as if I was being suck into a vortex. The pounding in my ears soon were matching by a horrible ringing making my body feeling numb and paralyzed. The last thing I remember, I was consumed by unwelcoming black darkness. Then the world slipped out from under me.

ऀNothing filled my brain, nothing was conscious to me. I lay, sprawled out on the soft ground in the middle of the unknown meadow. My pain was subsided as I remained disconnected with the world until I woke up to a cold hand stoking my neck. The abrupt awakening startled me back into reality. I burst open my eyes only to have the flood of sudden light momentarily blind me. As my eyes readjusted to the daylight, the world around me unfolded once again. I frantically glanced around realizing that where I was, was a completely unfamiliar place to me. I was trapped in some sort of barn, lying on a squishy mat. The sent was potent and foreign. Walls surrounded me from every side; it felt as though I was locked in a cage. There were ropes around my head and mussel. I heard strange noises and voices echoing through the building. To add to the shock of the moment I caught the eye of a human standing above me, its gaze pierced straight through me.

ऀNever had I ever been in the same proximity as an actual human. I had only heard stories of their existence and built up the fear of the possibility of them taking me captive as they had done to so many of my kind. My nightmare was now to come true. I was under the possession of a human being now. At the thought of this I sprung up to my feet finding an outburst of strength. There were several people around me and they held me tight and continued to observe me.

They made comments to each other. “I think he’s going to make it” spoke one of the strange humans. “He’s a strong fighter,” said another. I began to rise up in a furry hoping to scare off the human and break free. I reared and kicked but they only held me tighter, I realized my escaping was not likely at this time so I held still for the rest of their medical pressures for it was no use wasting the little energy I did have.

I listened to their alarming voices. “This stallion got one nasty rattlesnake bit. He’s lucky we found him when we did,” a deep man’s voice spoke.

“It was such a miracle that we happened to be roping cattle in the exact area where this horse collapsed.” I heard a soft women’s voice say.

“Yeah I saw him running out from the midst of the forest. The wild thing looked like he had just seen a ghost. That rattlesnake must had scared him pretty bad,” answered the man.

“We sucked a lot of venom out of that horse. It must have been one big snake. Let’s put him in a stall for the night so he can rest a bit. We’ll check on him in the morning. Its late lets go inside and tell Kamya about our new mustang she should be home by now,” the women said. The two of the led me through the barn locked me in and even smaller cage and threw me some hay which I protested against with a loud snort. And it was here were I was left by myself in my strange new home.

I soon discovered I was trapped in this enclosing stall also. My chances of ever escaping continued to diminish. I stood still and firm waiting for what was to come next. I wondered what these new owners of mine were planning on doing with me. I was a mustang. I was wild and I was tame less. But it was not before long that my whole view of myself and the world was changed all because of one person. One person that I never thought I could love so deeply.

It all started from the moment after I was placed in my stall awaiting my doom. The door to the large empty barn opened and out stepped a human. I closely inspected this small human as it meekly walked towards me. It was a young girl, petite in stature. I prepared to resent her as I did all humans but in that instant that she looked into my eyes and spoke, I stopped in my tracks. Her sweet, soft voice soothed me. It was the first time I had felt the slightest ounce of comfort in the entire day I had been here. I stared her down, trying to shake off the feeling of affection. I stomped my feet and reared up with dominancy. She remained in her position and continued to speak smoothly to me. I tried all I could but the girl seemed unfrightened of me and determined to stand her ground. And for this I gained respect for the girl. She stood at my stall door for a while longer and then left the barn to leave me in silence for the rest of the night.

The days went on and I got accustomed to the daily routine. In the morning I was given oats that tasted like sweet treats, in the afternoon I was turned out to the paddock to run and play as I pleased, and at night I was given more oats and hay, and then locked in my stall until morning came again. All this was done in persistent rebellion. I grabbed every chance I could get to return back to the wild for the pride within had not disappeared, but was merely covered up by something much stronger and it grew day after day. The only reason why I stayed content in my new home was because of the girl. The girl came to see me every day. She took care of me and fed me. Her name was Kamya. I had met her the night of my arrival and she had changed my life. Every day she worked with me, and made me calmer and calmer. She brushed my bright orange coat until it shone like a copper penny. She soothed me and respected me as I respected her. She did not let me get away with anything wrong and she protected me. She gave me a name, Blaze, in which I could go by. I went from a spirit of the wild to Blaze, a horse of a girl’s. Although I was stubborn to realize it, this human was taming me.

She soon became my best friend. She looked deep past my eyes and spoke to my soul. She knew how to speak to me without using words. And my sense of pride now was in her. She was my owner and I would do anything for her. Our bondage grew so strong that we almost became as one, and what I thought would never possibly happen to me, did. I had found love for a human, Kamya. All of my past drifted away from me. I no longer had the urge to return to the wild, for there was nothing for me there. The empty longing within me had been filled. I had all I needed now. I had a home and I had a true friend.

4h State horse Show

                                                                         Whenever I smell

the strong scent of horses

in a over-packed barn,

it is the State Horse Show

in the cool September, at the State Fairgrounds.

I am having a great time with my

friends and horses

while learning so much.

But this is not my story,

the story is of busy people

bustling around,

stress rising

 like a thermometer on a hot summer day

the celebration of a victory

and the sting of a defeat.