Some references from our customers…we are happy to provide references and telephone numbers for you to CHECK US OUT!

March 30, 2013

Hi Pat,

I've wanted to write you all a note for your website for the longest time, but haven't found the words to express how wonderful I think Tonkawood is! I am so thankful to have found such an amazing place and such wonderful people as I set out on the quest to find my first horse. I couldn't be more happy with Wesley and more grateful for the support you all have shown me as I learn to ride. I will recommend Tonkawood to anyone looking for a horse companion.  You couldn't ask for more knowledgeable or honest people to help you find a horse of your very own. I look forward to working with you all for years to come. Here is a picture of my husband Pat bonding with our new boy. 

Beth

 

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Beth Ley <bley@wheatsville.com>
Date: Sat, Mar 30, 2013 at 9:10 PM
Subject:
To: Beth Ley <becaudill@gmail.com>


 

This is Blaze enjoying his first day in the hay pasture.  This happened a week after coming to us and he thoroughly enjoyed it.  He's getting along very well with the other two horses letting them have their way as the dominates.  Blaze doesn't mind being at the bottom of the pecking order but he does not tolerate being bitten or pushed.  The other two have learned this the hard way...LOL.  This horse was made for me.  He and I have developed a bond that I never achieved with other horses.  Thank you so very much for bringing us together.  Blaze has a wonderful personality and is always looking to spend time with me.  I truly love this horse.

Thank you,
Michelle Van Meter

 

 Sent: Thursday, January 03, 2013 3:29 PM
> Subject: Update on Foxy
>
>
>> Hi all! Hope you guys are keeping warm! Just wanted to update and thank you for for this wonderful wonderful horse! We just all love Foxy! I don't think we could have ever asked for a better "first" horse for Kiele. Foxy has boosted Kiele's confidence so much and they are a great match! We have our first warm up trail ride this Sunday to prepare for our annual week long trail ride into San Antonio to the stock show & rodeo. I will send you some pictures of them on the trail! Kiele was a very good girl this past year so Santa decided to not only bring her Foxy but a new saddle and tack also! Needless to say they will be stylin'! Thank you all so much from the bottom of my heart for being such wonderful people who truly have the horses and your customers best interest at heart! We have been telling our trail ride friends about you guys so hopefully we can send you some business.
>>
>> -Summer Mendoza
>>
>> Sent from my iPadOn Jan 3, 2013, at 4:39 PM, "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com> wrote:

> Oh you have started out our new year well.  We do this as we love the horses and the kids so letters like this make all worthwhile.  May I post this on the reference site?  Look forward to the pictures.     Thanks, Pat
> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Summer Mendoza" <summer_reeh@yahoo.com>
> To: <Pat@tonkawood.com>
>
>
 

Oh yes ma'am I forgot to tell you that! Would love for it to go on the site! Also I was wondering if y'all may be interested in placing an advertisement in our brochure for the trail ride we put on for Santa Rosa Children's Hospital in San Antonio? We put on this wonderful trail ride, team roping, and BBQ cook off every year and all our proceeds go directly to the children's hospital. We usually send out about 800-1000 brochures every year. This is our 25th year and we are so excited! We would love to have you all and your students! I think yalls center you have going on is just amazing! Such a great thing for young kids!

Sent from my iPad

Kiele and Foxy with her family getting ready for a trail ride.

 

Dec. 11, 2012

Pat-

Just a note to you and Pam to say we returned from 11 days in the mountains near Cloudcroft last Sunday.  Had a wonderful time/ /food/company/rides/and weather (until the last day when the skies 'opened up' and the temp dropped to 39 degrees F).   But, the best part was riding the little Black Guy - - he was/is super!  What a great trail horse!  He'll follow, or lead (preferable) - is a 'happy camper' anytime you approach him, etc. etc.  All and all, I'm 'pleased as punch' - and the envy of most of our trail riding friends!  It's great!!

Cheers...jtt

 

Sent: Monday, August 06, 2012 9:44 AM
>> Subject: 'Val' - First Ride Sent from Jack Twilley, Blanco Texas
>>
>>
>>> Hi Pat and Pam,
>>>
>>> Just to let you know that I rode 'Val' (soon to be changed to -????)
>>> yesterday morning for about an hour and a half - it was about as near
>>> perfect a ride as I've had!!  He was great: wonderful walk, trot and
>>> lope.
>>> Still some slight tossing of the head on turns/stops, but for all
>>> practical purposes it's not an issue (I used a half - martingale).
>>> Bottom Line:  I thoroughly enjoyed him and already am looking forward to
>>> our next ride - and especially, our
>>> trip to the mountains in 3+ weeks!  You're right:  Just what I wanted!!

Jack Twilly

----- Original Message -----

From: Dawn Brown

To: pat@tonkawood.com

Sent: Sunday, July 08, 2012 8:41 AM

Subject: AJ (aka: Mini Moose)

 

Hello Pat and Pam;   Where to begin..... My experience with you and Tonkawood was just amazing. You found me not one, but two of the most perfect horses IN THE WORLD for our family. I'm so in love with these horses, words can't express my happiness. I'm thankful I don't live near you guys, or I would be the crazy horse woman and collect them all. You really do find the best! I just wanted to thank you AGAIN!!!   All the way from California, Dawn

Hi Pat,

Of course re: us/email as a reference!

No fire near us, though it was very dry, and windy, the week of Memorial Day - all it would have taken is one errant smoker, camper to toss/light a campfire and the place would have gone up just like the Little Bear Fire near Ruidoso, or the one in the Gila Wilderness.  We need the 'monsoons' of July quickly, i.e. in June!!

Let us know if you come down this way - we'll take you to some/one of the finer "haute cuisine" joints in Blanco (and not a large selection of them, either!)

Cheers…jet
On Jun 18, 2012, at 12:52 PM, Pat Dickey wrote:

> Oh Happy Days.........I knew you would like the Chipper folks....nice to know that Chip has a good home as I know you really cared.
>
> SOOOOOOOo glad that Lucky is doing his job.  Hope you can find the allergy thing as he may in fact be susceptible....hope the fires did not cause you any harm.  Our friends are going back in a few weeks as the fire missed them but got all their neighbors.........may I use your email for the reference column?   Pat
> ----- Original Message ----- From: "JACK TWILLEY" <jtwilley@txwinet.com>
> To: "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com>
> Sent: Monday, June 18, 2012 10:20 AM
> Subject: Meeting
>
>
>> Hi Pat,
>>
>> Just wanted to let you know that the Strahans, who bought "Chipper" came by last week and we had a good meeting/visit.  You're right - great folks and horse people!  We enjoyed meeting them and their trail riding friends who came w/ them.  Hoping that they can make it up to our place in Cloudcroft around Labor Day.
>>
>> I asked Marcella if she was ready to sell "Chipper" back to me and she had a resounding "No" to that question.  She really loves him and we're very happy about that.
>>
>> We took "Lucky"  to the mountains w/ us over Memorial Day week - he did great. CAT is very happy w/ him, though - because of his height - I have to do all the saddling......:-(.  Though the rash he had from South Tx is gone, he seems very susceptible to insect bites, etc. and has bumps all over.  CAT has done  research and
>> ordered some type of supplement to reduce, or eliminate, those.  May be allergies, but not sure.  Bottom line:  She (CAT) is very happy w/ the big fella!
>>
>> Hoping you all are doing well!  A big Hi to Pam.
>>
>> Cheers....jtt
>
>

 

April 9, 2012

We just got a picture today, April 7, 2012 of our Benjamin sent by his new owner.  She was out riding him and they sent the picture to us.  Quote "She (my mother) is loving him."

Hi Pat and Pam,

 

Here are several pictures taken today at McKinney Roughs in Bastrop.  Benjamin was on his first “real” trail ride with me.  We’ve been down the road several times and worked in an arena, but he seemed to like the trail riding.  We also parked cars at the San Antonio Raceway last weekend and he did great.  Wasn’t spooked by the noise at all.  He didn’t want to stand still very long, but no real problems.  He has a great trot and lope, very smooth.  Our other 3 horses are finally accepting him.  I guess they decided he’s not going any where.  I’m very comfortable on him and am lovin’ this horse.  Thanks so much.  Thought you might want to add these pictures to your website. 

 

Debbie Foster

 

 

Dear Pat:   Sure, I would be happy to recommend your services. Kiwi moves into his comfy stall tomorrow night.  He will be over the moon!  I don't think I told you that I am a massage therapist and though my mare doesn't like bodywork, Kiwi can't get enough of it.  I thought he was going to fall down he was so relaxed and blissed out last night!   Family coming out to meet Kiwi tomorrow...pix to follow.   Rita --- On Fri, 3/30/12, Pat Dickey <pat@tonkawood.com> wrote:   From: Pat Dickey <pat@tonkawood.com> Subject: Re: He's Definitely A Keeper To: "Rita Franklin" <talk2rita@sbcglobal.net> Date: Friday, March 30, 2012, 1:18 PM   Oh Happy Days............I was out of town so just got your email.  Pam will be sooooo happy as she just LOVES that horse.  His kindness and great attitude is what won her over ....she rides a lot of them but really loved that one.  Can I put you on the reference site?   Thanks for the update........Pat ----- Original Message ----- From: "Rita Franklin" <talk2rita@sbcglobal.net> To: <Pat@tonkawood.com> Sent: Monday, March 26, 2012 7:29 PM Subject: He's Definitely A Keeper > Dear Pat and Pam: > > Kiwi is a love!!  He is doing so well and really settling in with the other horses and the new routine.  I had the farrier out today and we pulled the front shoes.  He seems very comfortable as we have all  grass and clay dirt. The vet gave him a thorough exam and everything  looks pretty good.  He will get his vaccinations over the next week  ( Janie is a registered Vet Tech and will give them).   Our longtime  boarder/friend is taking his horses home this week and so Kiwi will  have a nice roomy stall right across the barn aisle from my little mare. > > So, thank you for introducing us.... Kiwi is a keeper for life! > > Best Wishes, > > Rita ( and Kiwi)

 

 

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Kim Jones

To: Pat Dickey

Sent: Sunday, March 18, 2012 12:56 PM

Subject: Re: Photo

 

Mrs. Pat,

Thank YOU and PAM and BILL SO much for finding Madisyn and Gavyn two perfect horses!  We could not be happier.  Thank you so much for all the cookies and lemonade and being so welcoming and wonderful to all of us.  We feel like we have an extended family in all of you!  We look forward to coming again for the kids next riding lessons. 

 

When Jody is there on Thursday have him look at the pictures and he might be able to figure it out.  I will be out of town working that day but he might be able to figure it out.

 

All our best,

 

The Jones family

Jan 21, 2012

Here is another one.  She is taking him  to his stall to feed him.  He is a great animal and is so protective of her.

Jan. 18, 2012

Sorry to take so long to send a picture and it is not a very good one. The better ones  are on my camera and I can't find the cable to down load them to the computer or IPhone. Emery loves Bo and he takes very good care of her.  My older son loves him so much he has been inquiring about your horses.  He wants a pleasure riding horse rather than another team roping horse.  To busy getting his Bachelors degree and also to broke to rope,  which is a very expensive habit!
Thanks again for allowing us to adopt Bo.  He is our family "Treasure".
Sincerely,
Kathy Boswell

Bo's new owner

 

Jan. 8, 2012

Sam and Hannah!

Dec, 28, 2011

Choctaw:

The Best horse I've had! He follows me from pasture to stall and stall to pasture(without halter!), He moves out easily and covers a lot of ground with no effort at all! Easy riding and even lets me preach on him! Love Him! Thank you Tonkawood!

Butch Ikels

Sr. Pastor

The Country Church

Marion Texas

Dec. 15, 2011

Hi Ladies,
 
Just a quick note to let you know Hank and I are well. Has it been 4 Years or 3? Don't remember. Finally got a pict of me actually on him. He is pretty dirty and furry right now. But just wanted to let you know we are still together. My husband is growing quite fond of him but still refuses to get on. My riding has improved quite a bit but I think he has turned into a one person horse. Does not do well with green riders (favorite thing is standing still) but will move off with someone with experience, flicking his tail the whole time. He is so big and strong and knows it.
 
Was anxious to check in with ya'll... Wishing you a healthy and prosperous New Year
 
Jane Thomas
Breckenridge

 

---

 

 

How are you and all the gang doing?

I hope you had a good holiday?
 
Pat I have to tell you this, it has been cold and Cooper and Papa haven't ridden in about 2 months.
We haven't been able to find any good grass hay at all so---we have been having to feed alfalfa.
Snow Cone has been eating really well and has probably gained 150 lbs from eating free choice alfalfa because I couldn't find any other hay.
Well Cooper and Papa decided to saddle up and go for a little ride yesterday.
I was a little worried because Snow Cone has been eating really well and feeling really good you know?
Pat I needn't have worried, that sweet precious mare never made a bauble, she acted like he had been riding her every day.
This mare is an angel from heaven. I have never seen another horse quite like her.
I tell her, Snow Cone you can have all you want to eat for the rest of your life, we will love you bunches and give you the run of 40 acres of pasture whenever you want to and a nice warm stall whenever you want it in cold weather if you will just ride that little boy around a little bit for us and take care of him.
It's almost like she understands me Pat, she's an angel from heaven. She is precious, sweeter than any horse I  have ever met.
Thank you again for Snow Cone Pat.
 
Kathy



 

 

 

Snow Cone and Cooper!

 

From: Jim Sluder

 

To: Pat Dickey

Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2011 8:24 AM

Subject: Re: Spider

From: "Debbie O" <bsrowens@rocketmail.com>
>To: "Tonkawood" <pat@tonkawood.com>
>Sent: Tuesday, August 30, 2011 8:06 PM
>Subject: Chip
>
>
>> Pat, thank you so much for finding just the right horse for me. I think
>> Chip is a keeper my trainer really likes him. I took lessons on him and he
>> did wonderful. He's very level headed good natured and calm. The only
>> glitch i find is he doest like turning left and i believe its from kids
>> riding him. Anyway  from just one lesson he gave up and will turn now wirh
>> no problem. Thanks again, i think i might have me a partner now. Sorry
>> abour being so picky  but i just had to have one i could trust and i think
>> Chip is it.
>>
 

From: Sarah Sarah

To: pat@tonkawood.com

Sent: Saturday, May 14, 2011 1:22 PM

Subject: Cochise Update

 

Hey Pam,
This is Sarah Culpepper from Llano. I bought Cochise last August and was just given you an update.
Overall he is wonderful! From time to time he does get a little independent and headstrong, but we are working and improving on that.
Just emailing to let you know that me and Cochise have entered the 2011-2012 Llano County Rodeo Queen Contest that will be held in Llano on June 3rd and 4th. We were wondering if you would like to come out one of those two nights and see how he is doing and see him. I also have rodeo tickets on sale in advance if you would like to buy any. If you are interested and think you might be able to go, you can email me and I will give you more information on tickets.

Hope to see you out there IF you can make it. Thanks again for Cochise(:

Sincerely,
Sarah Culpepper
 

Here is a picture of our wonderful Spanky and his new owner at the grand entry at the Rodeo in San Antonio!  Wow what a good boy!

Jeri
 

Hi Pat-  Hope all is well.  I am sending you some updated pictures of Wish.
My nephew came in from Florida from Spring Break and had never been on a
horse before.  Poor Wish still has the pink halter.  Let me know you
received these pics.  We are having fun!!!


Jeri

Jan. 3, 2011

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

----- Original Message -----

From: sgasdia@aporiasolutions.com

To: Pat Dickey

Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 9:33 AM

Subject: Dion/Sonya update

 

Hi Miss Pat,

I hope you had a wonderfully blessed Thanksgiving.  We all have so much to be thankful for.

 

Just wanted to give you an update on Dion/Stetson.  I took your advice and cancelled any events that I was thinking of until he and I get to know one another.  So far we have had a great time.   On our first ride outside the property, we went on a short 30 minute trip on the road.  Some friends down the street came by with their draft horse and buggy and another horse and rider.  Usually the first time a horse sees and hears the buggy (it has bells) they go coo coo.  Not Stetson, he was calm and collected.  He was curious but calm.  We found that he liked to take the lead and seemed comfortable there.  It was a very nice first ride "outside".

 

Yesterday I did some "ranching".  At the very far end of the pasture was a big blue tub (a half barrel size that minerals come in).  I wanted to get it but didn't want to walk all the way there and lug it back.  So, Stetson and I rode over to it.  I carefully "parked" him beside it, bent over while still in the saddle, and picked it up.  He acted as if he knew what I was trying to do and just stood there quietly while it got it.  I then held it up and started walking him.  At first he stopped and said, "What is that???",  and turned his head and smelled it.  After that, he said, "Ok, that's not a monster" and we continued.  We made it to the final destination and he let me drop it over the fence.  When it hit the ground, he just stood there.  He is such a good boy.  After that, we stopped on a good note and I put him up.

 

I look forward to many happy days with Stetson.  Thank you for matching us up.

 

I'll keep you posted on the good news.

 

Big hugs,

Sonya

 

P.S.  I received the coggins.  Thanks.

 

 

From: "Kiersten Davis" <kierstendavis@vzw.blackberry.net>
To: <Pat@tonkawood.com>
Sent: Tuesday, September 07, 2010 8:08 AM
Subject: Hello!


>I know it has only been a few days since we picked up yaga from you all but
>I had to give you an update! I'm in LOVE! So far we have only rode around
>the property and down the road in a halter and lead rope; passing cars,
>lawn mowers, dogs, deer, dove hunters you name it! And he was a perfect
>gentleman for me and I felt completely safe. My uneasiness I had from my
>previous horse is now out the window. He follows me around like a puppy
>dog. And just loves his apple treats and will try and follow me into the
>tack room closet just to get in the bag. I think we are going to be a
>perfect pair considering he let's me walk up to him in the pasture and ride
>bareback back to the barn for feeding time. I forgot what kind of bit you
>guys used on him maybe a D-ring reiner? We have him on one scoop of purina
>stragedy healthy blend with costal hay and pasture grass all day. I can't
>wait to start trail riding him on the many trails we have! We have already
>given him a bath and found out how white he could get, and then well he
>showed us how he could roll in the dirt. I'm so happy I found you guys I
>will always suggest you guys to anyone looking for a horse. I couldn't of
>found a better horse than him if I tried! I will send photos soon once the
>rain stops! And tell pam that her favorite horse is in perfect hands!
>
> Thanks!
> Kiersten Davis
> Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

 

May 11, 2010

Hi Pat,
I hope you are recuperating well from your surgery.  That is never fun.
I, too, had surgery this fall, and I have to brag that Blue was the best
post surgery horse ever.  He is becoming a super horse and I hope he
lives to be 40.  We ride all over alone, past new house construction,
trains, kids on bicycles, semis, rattle snakes, you name it.  He was not
sure about the little boys on bikes, not something he probably saw at the
feed lot.  But I had taught him a cue to drop his head, and so when he
started his nervous dance, I gave that cue, and he complied at once and
calmed down and stood there while I chatted with the little boys, who of
course, don't do anything quietly or slowly.  I had never had to use this
cue under duress before, so was not sure Blue would comply, but he did at
once.  So I think we are a pretty good pair.  He remains healthy, and  at
the last vet visit, the vet even complimented me on his nice muscle tone,
saying it was obvious we spent many hours together.  I miss being able to
ride my Choctaw, but he is pasture sound so enjoys his domain, and of
course he is the leader of the pack, in Blue's mind and in my heart.

Hope you enjoy the coming spring, before it gets too hot.  Be sure to
stop and visit the next time you pass through Roswell on your way to cool
Ruidoso.

Louann Hendricks
____________________________________________________________
Love Spell
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Hi Pat,
 
Just wanted to let you know that "Hank" and I are still partners.  It's been a little over a year now since I found him with you (Father's Day, 2008). He has become very spoiled, much to the chagrin of the lady who we board with. But I do love him and can't help it. I still spend at least 2 hours a day with him, usually riding at least 30 minutes. The rest of the time is spent gooming and just sharing grazing space until I turn him out for the day. We do have our moments though and soft words and baby steps seem to be most effective with him. He is very smart. Occasionally he thinks he sees a boogie man (or at least wants me to think so) but has yet to unseat or get away from me (I may be a little too cautious as a result)...
 
The picts below were taken by the mother of the little girl with the hat who takes lessons where Hank lives. They love Hank and think he is the most beautiful horse out there. I agree.
 
Thank you again for introducing me to this handsome boy
Jane Thomas
Breckenridge
 
 
 

Hi Pat,
It's time for an update on Blue Bayou, whom I got from you in the spring
of '07.  This horse is so solid, nothing flying, running, crawling,
flapping or banging has ever bothered him.  This summer he saved us from
a very angry rattler.  He saw it before it even rattled, carefully
sidestepped, and even after it started rattling, he remained calm and we
went on our way.  I, of course, nearly had heart failure.  Yesterday we
did encounter something that scared Blue.  Some lazy slop dumped a whole
house full of dirty carpet next to one of our trails.  Blue's head hit
the clouds and he started to dance, very worried.  He was not going past
that carpet, which had never been there before, and therefore was
suspicious.  After several tries, I decided caution was the better part
of valor, and we detoured.  The important part of this story is that
never once did Blue stop listening to my aids, nor threaten to bolt.  He
is still worth his weight in gold to me.

The vet remains amazed that Blue's squamous cell cancer has not
progressed.  He faithly gets his mushroom complex, and we hope to ride
together for many more years.

Hope all is well with you and yours,

Louann Hendricks
Roswell, NM
____________________________________________________________
Best Weight Loss Program - Click Here!
http://thirdpartyoffers

     Hi Pat & Pam

     It's Patricia & Ashley.  Sugar is a dream. We finally got to ride yesturday and she handled just wonderful. Ashley trotted her a bit and had a huge smile on her face.  I rode and felt so somfortable on her.  We are both happy with the decision on getting her.  Thanks alot for your patience with us.

Pam

Hi! We are absolutely loving the horses we got from you!! We have been 
riding a lot in the past month and each one of us is thoroughly 
enjoying it. Our 14 year old son and I enjoy riding the big sorrel 
Coosa Lad gelding we got from you (we call him "Colorado") - he is the 
biggest "pet" we have - always the first to walk up to us in the 
pasture and smell our hair and our pockets to see if we have a treat!

Our 9 year old daughter,  has been riding the little dark 
brown gelding we got from you (we call him "Ranger") and they look so 
cute together. He is just the right size for her. Today, she trotted 
and cantered the prison horse we got from you (we call him "Moose") 
all over a 35 acre fenced pasture. It really improved her confidence 
to be able to ride independently like that, and to be able to canter 
out in the wide open. All the while someone at the ranch nearby was 
shooting - must have been target practice - and Moose never even 
flinched. Our 4 year old and I were walking through the creek bed, and 
Moose would glance at us ever so often when another horse would most 
likely have spooked. Moose's gaits are smooth, so Caroline has no 
trouble sitting them.

They all have wonderful ground manners and never cause any problems. 
None of them have any problem with the cows that we have. They are 
good for the farrier, are easily caught in the pasture, stand well 
when tied, saddle well, never pin their ears (except occasionally when 
with each other at feeding time), etc. With Ranger and Colorado, I 
don't allow the kids to "yeehaw" ride - they have to pay attention and 
try to learn if I let them ride those two horses or Count, the bay 
gelding we had before we met you. When they ride Moose, I just turn 
them loose and let them ride - with the only guidelines being that I 
have taught them to be gentle with their hands (so they don't jerk the 
reins) and that they can't ride him too hard (equal amounts of 
walking, trotting, and cantering).

I would like to have you start looking for another "Moose" for us. We 
would like to find one that is dead broke, super quiet, bombproof, not 
necessarily fancy but solid as can be. I think it would be great to 
have two horses that we could trust to that extent so that if one of 
Caroline's friends comes out, she can ride, or when our youngest child 
gets older, he can start riding in the round pen.

You probably remember that I am particular about a horse's eyes - I 
don't like for any white to show, whatsoever. I like for them to have 
excellent ground manners, too, and not to be aggressive at all with 
dogs.

Call me at your convenience to discuss. We aren't in any particular 
hurry.

Thanks!

Melinda Grace
699-9032

No problem, Pat.  Have a great 2009!~~~Louann

On Mon, 5 Jan 2009 16:53:10 -0600 "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com>
writes:
> Hi, Happy new year.......what a great letter......can I post it on
> the web
> for references??? Pat
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <slhendricks@juno.com>
> To: <pat@tonkawood.com>
> Sent: Thursday, January 01, 2009 4:14 PM
>
>
> > Happy New Year's Pat and Pam,
> > I had to share today's happenings with you.  Blue and I went to
> ride on
> > the vacant 80 acres east of us today.  It has been very windy of
> late,
> > and there are tumble weeds everywhere.  We spent at least 1/2 the
> ride
> > with a huge tumble weed attached to Blue's tail.  It sounded like
> someone
> > was following us.  And Blue could have cared less.  What a trooper
> he is.
> > After riding, as it was 70 today, I decided to wash Blue's rear
> and tail
> > since he had had some diarrhea.  I was practically under him,
> scrubbing
> > his legs when a huge gust of wind blew a 10 gallon pail past his
> nose,
> > and he didn't even flinch.  I don't think even my sweet Choctaw
> would
> > have stood for that.
> >
> > Now that is not to say that Blue doesn't have some issues, but I
> have
> > worked to make him confident in me and my authority.  He is still
> a bit
> > crabby with pinned ears when he sees the saddle coming, but once
> we get
> > going he is fine. (I assume that is from the working days, when
> the
> > saddle meant work till you drop)  It is funny to see how happy he
> is when
> > we are done.  And at times he thinks HE should decide when we are
> done.
> > He was a pill in the beginning and did scare me a time or two, but
> I
> > continued to work with him, and now it is usually not ugly, just a
> "are
> > you sure we can't go back yet" and when I say no he complies.  On
> the
> > whole he is sweet and loving, comes when I call, loves those
> treats, is a
> > safe and steady ride,  has wonderful ground manners and is patient
> when
> > my non-horsey husband helps me by leading Blue.  I know that I am
> not
> > real brave in the saddle, but I never give up, and often do things
> in
> > baby steps.  That works for both Blue and me and we are having fun
> > together!
> >
> > Louann Hendricks
> > Roswell, NM
> > ____________________________________________________________
> > Click here for free info on Graduate Degrees.
> >
>
http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL2141/fc/PnY6rw2jywQNDs3bfKmWgGWyLY49q
rPtuuiYNzd1wcYuiJFUZexya/
> >
 

yes i tell you what i don't think i've loved a animal as much as i love
mrt


-----Original Message-----
From: Pat Dickey <pat@tonkawood.com>
To: jbracamontez@aol.com
Sent: Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:38 pm
Subject: Re:


How wonderful............may I put that on the web???? P
----- Original Message ----- From: <jbracamontez@aol.com>
To: <pat@tonkawood.com>
Sent: Wednesday, October 22, 2008 9:44 AM

> Pat
> Just wanted to let you & pam know that oct.4 we had a rodeo @ >
kelly's kids were kelsey, keaton, & james take riding & roping class &
 > keaton won 3 buckles off mr.t (my baby) also kelsey won a buckle as
well >
 

Hi Pat!   I just walked in the door from sitting with my trainer and her father at her stalls.  His beautiful 13 year old quarter horse mare had to be put down this morning and he is devastated.  BUT, he is very adament about getting a new horse.    Since they know Bronzie, I suggested that we talk with you and thought you had a horse or two that might fit him or find him one.  He is an older gentleman, around 68 -72 years old (I think) and is a very beginning rider.  He is 5'11" (long torso) and needs something extremely quiet and great on the trails - something that will take care of him and he can bound with.  Looking around 5 -12 years of age.    Please let me know if you have anything that you think would fit the bill and how much you are asking.   Also, Pat I have to tell you this...you will love it.  Yesterday I finally had my vet out to give the big guy his shots, clean his sheath, check to see if he needed his teeth floated, etc.  Doc Tresser walked back and Bronzie is standing in the corral just watching him - no halter.  It was about 100 degrees and muggy - yuck.  Dr walks over and lstands next to Bronzie who doesn't even move except to look at him and smell him.  Dr. pushes on Bronzie's hip and he slowly takes one step away.  Dr , with a worried look, says he's going out to his truck to get his stuff.  He comes back and for five minutes (5 minutes!) goes over Bronzie with his stethoscope listening here and there, took his temp, etc.  Bronzie now has a halter on but is just standing there.  Vet finally looks at me and says how long have you had him?  I tell him and he says have you wormed him? - yes.  Finally he asks...is he always this quiet? - Yup.  He can't believe it!  He said he had never seen a horse act this quiet and thought he was very ill but said everything was perfect. - heart, lungs, etc.  I told him about you folks and he said that he was flabbergasted that there was somebody out there selling horses and actually delivering what they promised.  He said Bronzie was worth his weight in gold...At one point he was just so overwhelmed,  his exact words were... "He's so damn...MELLOW!".  Told me not to worry about his feet - we would deal with it when the time came that he was lame.  He said he was the prettiest, nicest horse he has seen in a long time!  Later, he told my trainer that if I had paid 10K for him he thought I would still have gotten a great deal.  How's that for validating your program!?  Great horses at great prices.  Still can't thank you enough - I love him to death  (He didn't much like his sheath cleaned, though <G>)   Hope you are doing well.  Wish you could sell my little mare for me...nobody wants a mare here.  Look forward to hearing from you!   Karen Mahan

Hello Pat and Pam,  Just wanted to touch base with you regarding Coors.

So far he is a really really nice horse.  I rode him Saturday on  a ride with some friends where we went under a bridge with cars flying across the top and nothing phased him.  He goes wherever I point him and is not spooky at all.  He is also a real sweetheart that will come up to me anytime I go into the pasture.

Today some friends came over and we saddled everything up and took off down the road and on 30 acres that are pretty overgrown.  A friend who hasnt ridden very much rode Coors.  He did great, we rode by a school bus full of kids, a dump truck, barking dogs, and a UPS truck.  We rode through grass taller than the horses and he was a real trooper.

So far we are very happy with him.

Thought you might like an update.

ALSO - my friend is looking for a quiet, gaited horse no taller than 15.1 hands if you can find one please let me know.

Thanks,
Sherry Wade

Just thought I would drop you a line to let you know how "Hank" and I are doing. We have already had 7 lessons together and are becoming well acquainted. I ride every morning. We are out and about by 7 a.m. before the heat sets in. He is very alert and can be a little spooky with unfamiliar noises but it hasn't been too much of a problem. He gathers his wits about him quickly after a scare and we continue on. (I think he is starting to recognize the phrase "Pay attention" as we circle the property. His ears are a dead give-away.)  I am usually home by 9 a.m. and he is enjoying his breakfast after a gentle workout. I check on him almost every evening. Take him out for a brush and a little grazing time.
 
Mark calls him my new boyfriend, I call him my new best friend.
 
Thanks so much. I love him...
 
Jane Thomas
Breckenridge

I knew you would love him.........give him a pat for me.......we really miss him.......he is just good on the eyes........may I post your email on our reference column?.  I have to tell you that your email made my day........I really do this in my retirement years for the horses and their wellbeing and it is a pleasure to see people like you that appreciate the animals and love them.......he is a gem and I hope to maybe sell some more in your area.  The shipper was absolutely wonderful and I now say when people call me that I will only ship with them. 

----- Original Message -----

From: Karen Mahan

To: Pat Dickey

Sent: Monday, June 09, 2008 5:01 PM

Subject: Re: BRONZIE IS HERE!

 

Hi Pat!

 

Just had to let you know that I rode Bronzie for the first time today.  As you know, he came last Wednesday and after giving him some time to acclimate, I had my trainer work with him, riding him today for the first time - then she had me get on him.   I was scared to death - I haven't been on a horse in over three years and that was only for a few minutes.  I really haven't ridden in over 10 years.  He was PERFECT!  Stood stock still at the mounting block, moved only when I asked him and was quiet, quiet, quiet, just as you said.  Later I took him for a hand walk on the trails to see how he would react - he saw horses and donkeys and all sorts of scary things - nothing...he just looked - no spooking.  Just like an old trooper.  He stood perfectly for the shoer (went to sleep) and loved his bath (although he promptly rolled!) The worst thing he has done is to be startled by this big monster called an "air conditioner" when it pops on, but he will get used to it.  I can only assume he will get better and better.

 

Pat, I can't thank you enough...he is everything you said he was and more.  My trainer loves him and wants to use him in lessons (I don't know if I can give him up that long!)  You were so upfront about everything (FYI - as you told me the light cribbing virtually disappeared once he settled in - only surfaces somewhat half-heartedly at feeding time).  

 

I WOULD NOT HESITATE TO BUY ANOTHER HORSE FROM YOU!!!!  The experience has been great  - the only thing is that I will miss talking to you on a daily basis.  Please let any of your customers call me if you need a reference - I will happily market any horse out here in California for you too - your honesty, kindness and understanding are desperately needed by us city folk.  Please let your daughter and the team know how appreciative I am for all their hard work to get him ready for me.  If you ever are in this part of town, please come see him and me.  I would love to meet you and thank you in person for giving me back something I thought had been lost forever - riding again.

 

I'll keep you posted on his progress.

 

BTW, I have registered him with the PHBA as "The Gold Ultimatum"
 

Sincerely,  Karen Mahan (aka the scared-to-death 53 year old)

Pat Dickey <pat@tonkawood.com> wrote:

Hooray..........he is a beauty........I miss having him just to look at.........you will love him.......just give him a little time and a few treats......you know the way to a man's heart is his stomach.........I bet no one in your town has a prettier one........ha......let me know how you do......Pat

--

----- Original Message -----

From: Pat Dickey

To: Hal in Texas

Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2007 5:36 PM

Subject: Re: Hello from Hal and Pal

 

Hi Hal,

 

Hope the Christmas season is wonderful for you, Pal and your nice family.  May I post your nice letter on my reference site?  Pat

----- Original Message -----

From: Hal in Texas

To: Pat Dickey

Sent: Tuesday, November 13, 2007 3:52 PM

Subject: Hello from Hal and Pal

 

Hi Pat and Pam,

 

I’m that old geezer Hal Herrick that purchased “Buckshot” from you folks last November 21.  I am thinking of you folks, not just because it is approaching the anniversary of my horse adoption, but also because I recently met a new Texas arrival that has interest in becoming a horse owner.  Of course I gave them your Tonkawood site URL.  They won’t be moving here until the first of the year, so it may be a while before they contact you.

 

So while I’m at it, I will give you an update on my life with “Buckshot”, who has been renamed “Pal”(as in Hal’s Pal).  In the beginning, Pal was boarded first at the Tierra Linda Ranch stables, and then at a friends house.  But in July, I finished having a new barn (Pal’s Palace) and paddock area built for him at my property, and he and I are doing well.  He is now confined in a grassy and wooded area of about two acres, so when it rains he doesn’t have to wallow around in a muddy paddock.  His barn has a run-in shed area and at night I leave his stall open for him to use if he chooses to.  Some times I let him graze in our enclosed yard to graze (See Pal near Fountain). 

 

I started Pal and myself into the Parelli training program, and have finished Level 1 and have started Level 2.  We do a little training nearly every day, and we ether go for a walk or a ride several times a week.  I am practicing riding him bareback around the neighborhood with just a halter and single lead rope rein.  Pal is a favorite with my neighbors and they all remark about how friendly and beautiful he is (I groom him every day so he is always clean and his mane and tail shine).   

 

I will include a few pictures.  I hope you folks are doing well and that Pam will keep Tonkawood running for a long time.  Please keep in mind that if at any time you folks would like to come to Tierra Linda for a ride, I will be able to furnish one or two horses (you are not allowed to bring your own), and we can go for rides around our ranch. Our ranch has never been more beautiful.

 

Best regards,,

 

Hal and Pal

Hi Pat and Pam,

 

I wanted to let you know we just finished our 7 day evaluation of Rumford....who we renamed "Rebel".  He was our second purchase from Tonkawood, and he is absolutely wonderful!  We went on a big trail ride on Saturday and a couple of smaller trail rides last week.  We had him around cattle, tractors, construction, dogs, and crossed creeks, etc., and he was an angel! 

 

We have all ridden him and he has a excellent handle....but even better is his great mind and temperament.  Thanks again for another great addition to our family : )

 

Sincerely,

Maggie and Kyle Kelley

 

Absolutely you may! Thank you again!

Terri
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

-----Original Message-----
From: "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com>

Date: Sun, 7 Oct 2007 08:36:09
To:"Terri Bright" <tbright4@consolidated.net>
Subject: Re:


Oh Terri, how nice......I was wondering how it was going. May I use your nice email on our web site references??? You would be amazed how many people talk about that horse when they call us..........they mention the beautiful Trigger.............do not get to many that beautiful.................keep in touch. Pat
----- Original Message -----
From: Terri Bright <mailto:tbright4@consolidated.net> 
To: pat@tonkawood.com <mailto:pat@tonkawood.com> 
Sent: Saturday, October 06, 2007 10:37 PM

 
 
Pat,

I just thought I would e-mail you and give you an update on Trigger. HE IS WONDERFUL. I love him so much already. I rode him last night in lessons and he did so well. He trots so smooth I love it. He is so friendly to. As soon as he sees you walk out he starts coming up to greet you even if he’s all the way across the pasture. We had a guy here today moving some dirt filling in a low spot and Trigger had to go and greet him and get a few pats in before moving on. He is definitely turning out to be my dream horse. Thank you so much for all your help and honesty.

We are going to be getting in touch with you again hopefully soon. We have our Grulla and white mare up for sale. She is just to mare-ish. She doesn’t bother Trigger or my prison horse gelding but I have another gelding she drives crazy. My daughter that rides her is starting to out grow her also. She’s a little horse and she doesn’t go real fast. It was a good horse for her to learn on; however my daughter wants a brown horse with black mane and tail. I know all of these special requests are crazy. Once she sales I will contact you.

Thanks again and I’ll keep in touch,

Terri Bright

, post away.~~~Louann

On Fri, 31 Aug 2007 18:37:37 -0500 "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com>
writes:
> Oh how wonderfulllllllllllll..may we post your email on the
> web????????????
> That makes our day........P and P
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <slhendricks@juno.com>
> To: <pat@tonkawood.com>
> Sent: Friday, August 31, 2007 2:49 PM
> Subject: Blue Bayou
>
>
> > Hi Pat and Pam,
> > Just wanted to update you on Blue.  I have been working very hard
> to
> > teach Blue my requirements,  so he is the perfect horse for an
> older, not
> > so agile lady.  Finally, about 2 weeks ago he figured out that he
> was
> > supposed to stand at the mounting block like a statue until told
> to walk
> > on.  Now he is perfect.  He is so steady on the trail, just goes
> where I
> > point him, and very sure footed.  He doesn't mind leaving Choctaw
> behind
> > now.  I have yet to find anything that spooks him, not even the
> barn cats
> > playing under the tarp that covers the hay. He has learned to wait
> at the
> > pasture gate till "the Boss Man" gets in his stall and then he
> calmly
> > comes in to go to his own stall.  Blue knows when the treats are
> handed
> > out and comes calmly to get his.  He has not learned to eat sugar,
> > carrots, or apples, but seems quite content with the hard, dry
> cookies.
> > He has learned to love a bath, and I never have to tie him, he
> just
> > stands and enjoys his hosing on those hot days.  He groans with
> > contentment when I massage conditioner into his mane and tail.  I
> doubt
> > he ever had such pampering before.  He may not have all the
> advanced
> > training that Choctaw has, but he has his own good qualities, the
> most
> > important of which is to keep me safe, at which he is superb. 
> Thanks
> > again for finding him.
> >
> > Louann Hendricks
> > Roswell, NM
> >
> >
>  Hello Pam, Pat, & Darci :)!

By the looks of  your website, ya'll have been extremely busy!  We just wanted to drop you a note to let you know that we couldn't be happier with Little Man.  He is absolutely AWESOME!!!  He's sweet, kind, and so responsive.  Everyone that rides him falls in love with him - and he has been a major confidence booster for Noah.  Noah started trotting him right away but he's been hesitant to lope.  Well, for my birthday (April 1st) he finally agreed to lope "just once".  Only about 10 strides the first time - but he did it!  Little Man knew he didn't want to keep loping and pulled up even before he was asked.  Well loping is kind of like riding a roller coaster ... scary the first time, tentative the second, and then addictive ;)!  Suffice to say that Noah and Little Man are now loping all over the pasture.  I'm attaching some pictures I though ya'll might enjoy.

Happy trails,

Rebecca, Lynn, & Noah

From: <slhendricks@juno.com>
To: <pat@tonkawood.com>
Subject: Blue
Well, Blue has been here 2 weeks and is just a little doll baby. He came
a bit underweight and skittish after his travels from Houston to
Tonkawood to Pilot Point and finally to Roswell. He even was being a
picky eater, but now seems to have decided that he is finally home and
can eat and relax. He and Choctaw love our native grass pasture, Blue is
gaining his weight back and Choctaw has been put on a diet. Every day I
learn some new surprise about Blue and all the knowledge he has stored
away after years of being a working horse. He is a perfect fit in our
little family and sweet as can be. Thanks again.

Louann Hendricks
Roswell, NM
 

Dear Common Ground,

I wanted to thank you personally for finding such a wonderful horse for my wife, Jennifer. When we rescued Flash and Reggie, we knew they would not be appropriate horses for our family due to the condition they were in. Our goal was to bring them back from near death and provide for them a better life. We appreciate you placing those horses in appropriate companion homes as we dearly love both of them.

Trinity has been a God sent for Jennifer. As you know, Jennifer has been riding since she was 4 years old. She rode competively in Hunter Jumper and Dressage. All she ever wanted to do in life was go to vet school to be an equine surgeon. Her life revolves around horses. Since having Trinity for this short time, all my wife wants to do is come home from work, rub all over him, and go for a ride on our 58 acre ranch. I truly do not believe we could have found a better horse.

I also want to thank you for Lightning. Lightning has been a God sent for me as well. He is the most calm, patient horse one could ask for. The kids absolutely adore him. They take turns brushing him and sitting on his back. Lightning doesn’t even flinch when they come running through. We have our Ferrier coming next Friday to place corrective shoes on him to help with his leg. For right now, he has been a great companion to Trinity. Trinity follows Lightning everywhere he goes.

Again, I want to thank Common Ground for everything you do for horses. Trinity and Lightning are part of the family and will always be treated as our children. It makes me smile to see my wife ride on Trinity and enjoy him so much. May you continue to be blessed in your work and efforts to save and provide great homes for these special creatures. We will be sending a photo of the two soon.

Sincerely,

Stephen, Jennifer, Brendan and Ethan Garretson

Pat and Pam,

What can I say…we are 4 out of 4 for great horses! (Peggy Sue, Cappy, Stormy, Wichita)   Anyone looking for a good safe horse would be nuts for looking anywhere else!  The enthusiasm and knowledge ya'll bring make it so worth it.  Thank you so much Pam for taking the time to make the extra effort to get this horse to our daughter before Christmas!!!  You were as excited as we where about Wichita.  Nice touch with the big Christmas bow!!  I feel like we are family…thanks so much for your friendship.  I will keep you informed on Allyssa's progress with Wichita on the barrels.

It is so refreshing to know that what ya'll say about each individual horse is true,  you don’t add or take away from the facts about a horses ability, safety,  problems or quirks.  In fact you tend to sway the other way to make sure the right horse gets with the right person. 

Thanks Again,

The Bradburns
China Spring , TX

From: Pat Dickey

To: David M. Richards

 

Oh how wonderful............may I post this on our reference column???  Pat

----- Original Message -----

From: David M. Richards

To: Pam Holeyfield

Cc: Gwynne Richards

Sent: Tuesday, December 12, 2006 8:56 AM

Subject: Horses from Tonkawood

 

Good Morning Pam,

 

Thought you would like to see a picture of our group.  We couldn't be more pleased with the horses from Tonkawood.  Thank you for all your help.

 

Merry Christmas!

 

Dave

 

David M. Richards

James River Ranch

 (Michelle) have formed an amazing bond with her. She nickers for me and follows me after I ride. It is absolutely amazing! I love her sooooo. . .  much. I attached a few pictures of us riding at the SIRE Ride-A-Thon. It was a 12 mile trail ride and she did AWESOME!

 

Thank you again. We cannot thank you enough for finding Lady for us. We thoroughly enjoy and love her.

 

~the Wilkins family

Hoorayyyyyyyyy...can I post your email on our reference site...........we loved him too.........P

----- Original Message -----

From: KYLE KELLEY

T
 

Hi Pat and Pam,

 

Ralphie (a.k.a. Tango) is a keeper!  We have reached the end of our 7 day evaluation, and he is just the BEST horse!  My daughter and I absolutely love him, and he is a perfect fit for us both.   I rode him on trails today for 2 1/2 hours, and he was a dream to trail on.  It was an extremely windy and cooler day, so it was a good test....he passed it with flying colors.  Kirsten has been riding English in the arena on him as well.

 

During his vet check, our vet said he has one of the best personalities he has seen.  Thank you so very much!  We will definitely return to Tonkawood for any future horse purchases, and we will send others your way.  We appreciate your "bombproofing" and doing such a good job of evaluating each of the horse's temperaments and capabilities.  We could not ask for a better match for our family.

 

Sincerely,

Maggie Kelley 

Dear Tonkawood,

It has been several weeks since I purchased a beautiful 6 yr old gelding QH from you and I wanted to say thank you.  His new name is Montana aka Monty.  I am riding three times a week and he is the most forgiving and tolerant horse. I have learned so much from Monty and I have been training at the Sandy Hills Stables of LaVernia to ensure I improve my riding/horse care-training skills.

In mid-May I will be starting my own pasture boarding facility in LaVernia which is very close to San Antonio.  I am new but learning rapidly regarding the care of horses and the equine business.  If at any time you need a horse-home-base near San Antonio I am certainly interested in helping.

Additionally, any POC's or advice you can provide as I approach this endeavor would be much appreciated. 

In the fall I will be approaching you again with my "wish list" for another horse.  I have received many offers to purchase other horses, but I plan on waiting to get a horse from you that is tailored to meet my skills/needs.

Once again thank you for such a wonderful horse and rest assured he is receiving wonderful care.

Lisa Boggs

SL Ranch

504 Lake Valley Drive

LaVernia, TX  78121

210-323-7341

Hi Pat and Pam,

We'll also send along another picture with the kids riding Snickers -- feel free to mention on your site that Molly is our second kid horse from Tonkawood.

Sincerely,
Lisa and Esther Pomeleo-Fowler

Hi Pat and Pam,

As promised, here is a picture of Sandra Jewel on Molly last weekend.  She's doing just great here and the kids love her.  The geldings have certainly calmed down since Molly got here (what a relief!).

We'll send along another picture with Shelby on Molly soon.

Take care,
Esther and Lisa Pomeleo-Fowler
<<Sandra Jewel Pomeleo-Fowler and Molly.JPG>>

Of course you can post it, we may see you again before too long ,
Blackie will need a friend. Have a great day!Kristine

>>>
From: "Kristine Sherrill" <ksherrill@libertyhill.txed.net>
To: <pat@tonkawood.com>

>I wanted to send you a update on Blackie. We have been out to ride
for
> the past two weekends and he is a complete gentleman . He loves to
be
> out and about , sometimes not wanting to return home . He is
everything
> I ever dreamed of. He follows us like one of the dogs and is getting
> used to the constant loving we provide. In the srpring when we get
some
> rain and we can finally have a yard his favorite places to stand and
nap
> will change. He has taken up in the front flower bed and by the air
> conditioner!  I love to look out the bedroom window to see him
sleeping
> contently in the sun. Thanks for helping bring such a special friend
to
> our family.
> Kristine , Scott , and Brooke Sherrill

I love the pictures. I was so excited when I saw him ( when we came
there) I forgot those pictures were taken. Of course you can post the
message on the web.
We love him and thank you for him! Have a great day! Kristine
>>> "Pat Dickey" <pat@tonkawood.com>
Hi, Can I post your message on the web...don't you love the pictures
and the
one of you???? Pat
----- Original Message -----
From: "Kristine Sherrill" <ksherrill@libertyhill.txed.net>
To: <pat@tonkawood.com>
 

We enjoyed the pictures on the website of us with Blackie. I followed
your advice about Blackie and he is setting in . He seems to wait for me
to come out to see him everyday. I walk right up to him with the halter
and he willingly goes with me.. We love him! Thank- you for  what you do
. He is the perfect addition to our family! Thanks
Kristine Sherrill
 

Yes you all may use the email. Jack Mountain Ranch is very pleased with
Bling, and your overall commitment to matching horse to family!!



:) Hal Meyer :)

halmeyer@hotmail.com
business home 512.918.9868
business cell 512.422.4681

>Pat and Pam, Bling is doing great! We had him out for rides with the other
>horses 4 times last week and he did great. We got our daughter-in-law a
>ride with him last week and he was excellent...smooth, gentle and
>accommodating a novice. He is starting to feel more comfortable being on the
>ranch and around us and coming up for treats. He is also a very slow, slow,
>eater....takes a mouthful, chews, chews, stands with head up and back to
>the grub:) Richard is to stop by today and pick up the rest of the
>paperwork and the 3 breast straps. He is meeting the vet on Tuesday to get
>up-to-date on his shots.
>
>Thanks:):)
>
>
>
>:) Hal Meyer :)
>
>halmeyer@hotmail.com
>business home 512.918.9868
>business cell 512.422.4681
>
>

Hi Pat,

I bought a horse "Toby" from you several years ago.  1999. I call him Splash.  My husband had died and he was a sort of present to myself.  I still have him and enjoy riding him nearly every day.  I moved to my ranch early in 2002.  Now he lives a very pampered and happy life with a big pasture and lots of grass. I have three other horses, but he is still my favorite.

 

I started learning the Parelli horse training method and am concentrating my efforts in that direction.  

 

I just wanted to let you know that I am very grateful I found Splash and thank you sincerely.

 

Judy Tor

 

__________________________________________________

Hey, Pat/Pam! We just wanted to let you know how much we are enjoying Grandpa! Asa named him "Milky Way"after a horse in a Mike Blakely song, and he has ridden him all over the ranch with me and my daughter.  What a sweet ol"soul he is.  The first day Asa rode him here he dressed up as a Indian, and had the best time.  This weekend we are going out to look for a lost cow, and this time Asa gets to go with us.  He is thrilled.  Thanks! Certainly you may use my letter to you on your website.  I agree that more people should consider old horses for little children.  They have so much to offer! Thanks! 

Jennifer  Ortiz

Dear Pam and Pat,

I just have to write to let you know how pleased I am with the lesson horses
you helped picked out for my program.

Just yesterday I was able to teach a rider that has some lower body weakness
to canter.  A dream this rider has been trying to achieve for almost a year.
His first ride on Picasso and he cantered just after the warm up.

I have searched high and low for quality lessons horses.  I am so thankful
to be able to use Tonkawood as my only  source for finding  quality horses
for lessons and referring Tonkawood to all my clients.

I cannot convey completely in words how pleased I am to have found a business
that really knows horses and can be completely honest in their dealing in
the horse industry.

Thanks for all your hard work and dedication to the horse world.


Lori G. Gould
Horse Encounters
certified NARHA Instructor
 

Hello Pat & Pam,

   Just thought I would Keep you posted on Happy. Alex changed his name to Heaven, which describes him perfectly. Alex and Heaven are now part of the Fiesta Pony Club. Also Cathy Sleeper is also starting to train heaven and Alex in dressage. We get so many compliments and offers on Heaven, but all we say are thank you and no way he is not for sale!!! Thank you again for finding the perfect match for Alex. We also sent some pictures and we will continue to keep you updated.

Cristina Garza

Dear Pat and Pam,

      Don and I would like to just thank you for finding us a really great horse. Poncho rides so smoothly and never gives us a bit of trouble;yall did great

     We will be looking for another horse in the near future, and hopefully we will find one just as good as Mr.Poncho.  We did finally break down and got a computer-I am on it all the time. I check your website frequently, and it looks like yall got a couple of good ones in. Rocky sounds terrific.

       Well thanks again hope to see yall soon.

                                      Take Care,

                                            Don and Stacey Hanks

Hi Pat and Pam,

  Just a quick note to let you know how much we LOVE our new horse Teddy! He is very sweet, gentle, easy to saddle, great on trails, good in the ring, and very responsive. Thank you SO much for finding him for us! We are really having fun with him and wouldn’t hesitate to put a brand new beginner on him. 

We have looked for a horse for our 9 year old daughter for 1 year. I drove to Austin to the Tonkawood Farms and met and fell in love with an 8 year old gelding named "Cutter". We show our horses in the fast growing cowboy mounted shooting sport and needed a horse with a great disposition. Cutter has given my daughter the confidence she needed. She has now showed him in 3 shows and has taken 1st place in two of them. Just last week Cutter was a perfect gentleman for a 75 year old lady who hadn't ridden in 20 years. She had the best time she has had in a long time, thanks to Cutter!

Gulf Coast Mounted Shooters
Cheryl McLane
Happytrails@selec.net
281.351.1845

Pam,

Luther and I went on our first training on the Mounted Search and Rescue and he just did

GREAT!!!!!!!!!I was so proud of him. We went through our ground maneuvers and then we saddled up and went through the balance maneuvers and then we got to get out and go through the field and then the trees and look for someone. We were the first there, and

he acted like he had done this all his life. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR matching us up.

He is awesome. Here is a picture of us at training we are just getting ready to go out.

Ride Safe,

Sandi

Pam,

Sure you can use us for a reference. I will sure tell everyone how trustworthy you are, as Luther is everything you said he was and then some. I never bought a horse unseen or unseen ridden before in my life. Got him home and let him rest and look around for about

an hour and then I saddled up and we went for a ride and he was great. The next day we

went to our Mounted Search and Rescue Training and he led the way. He was soooo good.

Everyone couldn't believe I just got him. I would recommend you and your program to anyone I know looking for a good safe horse.

Thanks again,

Sandi

Luther

Dear Pam, just wanted you to know how MUCH I like “Scout”!. We are loping everywhere circles, etc.  He loads GREAT now and the picture is with my new 2 horse trailer! Pam he’s smoother that “Sam I AM”. And I thought I’d never find a horse I’d love more that “Sam”, but you’ve done it again!

I’m starting to ride more now that it is getting a little cooler than those 100%! So, hope to loose a little weight on me and tone up both me and Scout”…….Everyone that sees him likes him-thanks again….

Love, Sally Murry

A great home for a GREAT horse!  Sterling was a big time jumper in his first life.  When his jumping days were over he has become the beloved friend to Colton Zizelman.  A love story for both of them!

Hello Pat,

    We have entered Smokin in the open horse show at the San Antonio rodeo Feb, 16. Ashley is going for high point on him. Kendall will also be showing him in a couple of classes. We are so happy with the way he is turning out. He really has it made down here. If you or Pam get down this way, let us know. 

    Stay warm and dry,

    Mike Varelans

Hello Pat & Pam,

    Well it has been about a year since we purchased Smokin from you. Just to let you know that he is doing great. We purchased a place east of San Antonio this summer. It's an old appaloosa horse farm with about 20 acres of the prettiest grass you have ever seen. He shares 3 acres with our other horse and there is no way they can eat it all, but they try.

    He will be in a IBHA show this weekend in San Marcos. Also, there is a picture of him and our daughter participating in a trail ride in the November issue of the "Horse Gazette". We are still very pleased with him.

    I'll let you know if anything else happens,

Mike Varelans     

Dear Pam,

I just had to send you a note about "Popeye".  First of all, I have figured out he is a CURLEY (or, at least a cross bred) origin from Russia.  What a find! 

This horse is with an 11 year old young girl who almost sleeps with him every night.  She can do anything on him!  She swings a rope off him, herds cattle, rides fence lines and all up in the brush - doges barking ON his heels - nothing phases him.  She is little and struggles up to the saddle and Popeye waits calmly for her, then off they go.  Everybody raves over him, his curly hair and unusual color.  What a dream of a horse for a child - he's worth thousands.

Thank you so much for sending him to us.  I've always been so happy with all my horses I've gotten from you, and their exceptional quality.  I just had to let you know about "Popeye" and what a wonderful boy he is...and, the little girl who has him.

Thank you again so much and I look forward to the next many months of fabulous horses from Tonkawood.  Keep 'em coming!!

 Hope 4 RanchEllen Sinclair

PO Box 384Adkins, Texas  78101

210-649-1663 

Dear Pam,

This is Elizabeth Sandlin and you sold me Razmataz about two years ago. I just wanted to let you know that we are doing wonderful!! We are planning on going to some shows in Austin and Las Colinas and are currently jumping around 2'6" or 3'.  Taz is doing great and has really grown a lot! I just wanted to thank you and wish you the best wishes! I hope to see you soon maybe at some shows this summer or fall. So i just wanted to let you know how we are doing and to thank you for bringing this great horse into my life! God bless!                                sincerely,                                    ~*Ü Elizabeth Sandlin Ü*~

Pam and Pat

We are having a great time with our new horses.  I would like to thank you for helping us find horses that fit us.  Let me tell you we go hand in hand with our horses.  You have helped us achieve a long time dream of owning horses.  We look forward to many, many days of happiness on the open trails.

Happy trails!

Trent and Laura

Dear Pam and Pat,

Just want to let you know WE LOVE BAILEY!  He is such a great horse.  We have taken him on the trails and in the ring.  He is very sweet, calm and willing.  Doesn't spook at anything and will do whatever we ask.  We even let our beginner friend and her 8 yr old son ride him and he was a perfect gentleman.  He does equally well by himself or with other horses.  He's exactly what we were looking for!  Thank you for taking the time and effort to find the perfect horse for us.  You provide a great service.  We would gladly buy another horse from you and recommend you to our friends.  Please feel free to use us a reference.

Have a great weekend! Jack and Laurel Cunnane     
(254) 690-2183
cunnanejl@aol.com

Dear Pat and Pam

I finally got some film developed of Frank.

Frank is still as wonderful as the day he came home with us. I have been taking riding lessons every week. I had to begin lessons on the instructor's horse but I go home and practice on Frank. He is very patient and tolerant with me as I learn. I am excited because this Sunday he gets to go to the lesson and I will be riding him from Monday on. I am so proud of him. I look forward to showing him off. We can't wait until April warm weather and trails!

I can not begin to tell you how important Frank has been. He helps give me such pleasure, purpose and energy. Riky has said a hundred times how lucky we were to find you all and make that trip to find Frank.

We thank you all again for your honesty, and your committment to providing the right horse to the right home. Your caring makes a difference for all!

Suzette, Ricky and Frank

Hi Pat,

This is Tiffany Johnson (zipper). He is a glorious horse and I had the opportunity to ride him. I would have to say I have never been on a horse more well mannered and well trained. The girls have had quite a few opportunities to ride him and the ONLY problem he has ever shown is wanting to cut corners with them, though he never even thought about it with me. I do not see the cutting corners a problem, as the girls must learn to use the legs, and what better way then a little help. If a kids horse has only one bump you really lucked out. Zipper is very sweet and very gentle, and seems to rather like all the Tate's children brushing, petting, and loving on him. He is very much a gentleman and is very careful where his feet and head goes. He loves being tacked up and ridden and each time the girls get better and stronger with their legs and zipper just gets better with his corners. zipper was out for the first time all night, last night and did fine. Very glad to see us this morning with his breakfast. I would have to say zipper is most definitely the happiest horse I have ever seen and has never frowned once. I cant wait until the years ahead as the girls learn from the fabulous animal about life and ridding.

I appreciate everything you have done and Mike and I will ourselves be ready to buy a beginners schooling horse, so we will be back. Keep us in mind when you find one.

I hope that things are going well for both of you!

I am having a blast with my new horse...He has turned out to be so awesome! With tax season in full swing my schedule became really hectic. I took him to the old barn and put him in full training. My trainer thinks I made a great choice. I am so excited! His dressage work has just astounded me---being around all of the warmbloods he now thinks he is one!!! Thank you very much for working with me....

LaNett Johnson

*"Once in a while personal experiences with several individuals networking on behalf of others can get good results……….." I went through files of individuals, training facilities and breeders searching for information just as I would do an appraisal…….." "I hit paydirt with a lady and her facility about sixty miles from our ranch. She has operated in several phases of the equine industry for many years, and her daughter is a competitive jumper as well as a trainer. These two ladies are pretty well known in the horse world."……So we traveled to see the 16.3 hh Thoroughbred of about 1,200 pounds walk, trot, canter and jump the course several times. He was awesome, and he and his rider were as beautiful as a poem in motion."……

This has to be the best Christmas/New Year I have ever had because the plans of our main characters came together, as promised. People who were strangers a few weeks ago, made a happy deal, because of networking with professionals in whom they have faith."

Don McKee Equine Appraisals www.littlesaba.com

"…I wouldn't trade him for the world"…….Cindy

" I absolutely love this horse!! He is so smooth and I can even sit the trot, which will help my sore back……" Elaine

The…who bought a horse from you a few months ago are friends of mine. I admire the horse you sold them……"John M.

"Pam and Pat, I can't THANK YOU enough for finding "Baily" and "Toad" for us. We are so pleased with BOTH horses we purchased from you. It is very hard to 1.find a horse that fits your personality, and 2. Find honesty and integrity in the horse business. You have a "nack" like no other and I have been around the horse business for the last 20 years. Again, thanks so much………….Sheri"

 Dear Pat and Pam" Today I had my first lesson at the dressage clinic. The lady is from up Boerne area-- her name is--------. I really like her--I have another lesson tomorrow. I wanted to tell you that Winston did wonderfully! He will help my confidence. One of the women there wanted to buy him, according to my husband…she(and the instructor)asked where I got him, and I think you may have a new market there……………..I want to thank you for helping me find him………………..over-all he is doing very well for me. Thanks again……….Anne" 

Allie is wonderful. ………………I love her to death…………………Regards, Sam" 

Hanna is very, very happy with the services y'all provide at the ranch. Pam was right on target when she recommended we buy Hannah a horse named Jay which she fell in love with. Both Hannah and Jay love it at the ranch and we feel very safe with Pam on duty. Thanks for all you do……Mike" 

Thanks again for all your help. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it"….." " Hi! Just thought I would drop you a line to let you know how Miss Priss and I are doing…….we were in a show not long ago and she did great! Are you ready for this..2 first place ribbons in DRESSAGE! She did wonderful….Barb

Dear Pat, I wanted to give you an update on Dan. He's wonderful. Everything you said he was. Very smart, quiet, and a joy to be around………………………..Barb 

Victor and I are constantly learning together and are establishing a strong bond/trust/friendship. Thanks again for the wonderful animal……………….Kirsten

 Dear Pam and Pat,

I am so pleased with my horse! I really appreciated the help and the time you allowed me with my horse before purchasing him. Not everyone in the business provides that type of arrangement. I had no reservations about purchasing him after the time I was given to get to know him. He is a wonderful horse. I really love him and we have a promising future together. I can't wait to start showing! Again, thank you both for everything………………Nancy