Saddle Great

Saddle Great

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WESTERN SADDLE USED SADDLE HORSE SADDLE EQUESTRIAN SADDLE TOOLED GREAT VALUE! 8D


WESTERN SADDLE USED SADDLE HORSE SADDLE EQUESTRIAN SADDLE TOOLED GREAT VALUE! 8D


$299.99


16


16″ NEW TAN LEATHER AUSTRALIAN STOCK SADDLE PACKAGE GREAT BUY


$169.00


STUBBEN English / Dressage Saddle Cover -BLUE/WHITE Logo- GREAT! Cotton/Elastic


STUBBEN English / Dressage Saddle Cover -BLUE/WHITE Logo- GREAT! Cotton/Elastic


$19.99


Blue Western Saddle Blanket / Pad 57


Blue Western Saddle Blanket / Pad 57″x 27″ Navaho Print CLEAN & In Great Shape


$1.04


Thissell Western Roping Saddle! Vintage Antique Great Shape! Handmade!


Thissell Western Roping Saddle! Vintage Antique Great Shape! Handmade!


$600.00


Classic Equine Mohair Cinch, 26 1/2


Classic Equine Mohair Cinch, 26 1/2″ great for Bob Marshall Saddle


$20.50


16


16″ Western Leather Endurance Saddle made by Great Plains Saddle Company


$299.98


NEW!!! ~  SADDLE RACK~ FOLD DOWN~ NEW~great for stall wall~


NEW!!! ~ SADDLE RACK~ FOLD DOWN~ NEW~great for stall wall~


$11.99


Lot of 6 each Muleskin Horn Wrap great for Saddle Shop Dally Wrap Roping Roper


Lot of 6 each Muleskin Horn Wrap great for Saddle Shop Dally Wrap Roping Roper


$59.95


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


$10.99


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


$10.99


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


$10.99


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


NEW Saddle Blanket GREAT price


$10.99


M&W Trooper Saddle...BRAND NEW, great deal! Save almost $400!


M&W Trooper Saddle…BRAND NEW, great deal! Save almost $400!


$650.00


Trooper Saddle...BRAND NEW, great deal!


Trooper Saddle…BRAND NEW, great deal!


$650.00


Great Thornhill Pro Trainer Close Contact 16-16 1/2


Great Thornhill Pro Trainer Close Contact 16-16 1/2″ saddle package


$249.00


Leather Muleskin Horn Wrap great for Wade Roping Roper Saddle Dally Wrap


Leather Muleskin Horn Wrap great for Wade Roping Roper Saddle Dally Wrap


$12.50


8


8″ Kids Black Western Leather Mini Pony Trail Saddle-ON SALE-GREAT LOW PRICE


$79.99


Simco Old Pro Heavily Padded Seat Trail 16


Simco Old Pro Heavily Padded Seat Trail 16″ Saddle Great Used Shape


$395.00


BUFFALO 16


BUFFALO 16″ WESTERN ROPING PLEASURE TRAIL HORSE SADDLE MEDIUM OIL- A GREAT BUY!


$395.99





“NICE” Brand Dressage Saddle Great condition


$360.00


GREAT WESTERN HORSE SADDLE TEXAS WEST USA HAND TOOLED PADDED #9


GREAT WESTERN HORSE SADDLE TEXAS WEST USA HAND TOOLED PADDED #9


$349.99


Stubben Tristan Dressage Saddle  17 inches  really great shape


Stubben Tristan Dressage Saddle 17 inches really great shape


$575.00


Beautiful Pink Children's/Girl's 15


Beautiful Pink Children’s/Girl’s 15″ Saddle w/ Matching Blanket – Great Cond!!


$399.99


Albion Original Dressage Saddle- Medium 17 1/2


Albion Original Dressage Saddle- Medium 17 1/2″ Great Condition!


$650.00


Youth Kids Horse Pony Saddle 12


Youth Kids Horse Pony Saddle 12″ Great Condition


$99.99


Passier Grand Gilbert Dressage Saddle, 17.5


Passier Grand Gilbert Dressage Saddle, 17.5″ seat, Wide tree, GREAT condition!


$1,499.00


13


13″ NEW OILED TAN LEATHER WESTERN SADDLE.GREAT BUY


$0.99


14


14″ NEW OILED TAN LEATHER WESTERN SADDLE.GREAT BUY


$0.99


Crosby Close Contact Saddle 16


Crosby Close Contact Saddle 16″ Great Condition!


$300.00


How Much Can I Sell My Saddle and Pad For?

I have a Blue Ridge saddle. It has stirrups and a brand new leather girth. It is a english saddle (I think it’s an all purpose or Jumpers) It is real leather and it’s in pretty good shape. Not that old either and it’s used.

I also have a Tango Saddlepad. They real brand is Tolkat but the designers line in Tango (by Tolkat). It is burgendy and only used 4-5 times. It is ment for a average horse but I use it on my caspianXfell pony (It’s way too big).

Well any help on pricing these would be great! I want to get a picture up but I don’t know when I can. Thanks!

Saddle: $125
Girth: $25
Pad: $15
whole package: $160
There’s my answer plain and simple, did a little reasearch and that is my conclusion.

Best wishes!

Medium Tree

Medium Tree

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COLLEGIATE Dressage Saddle - 16


COLLEGIATE Dressage Saddle – 16″ – Black – Medium Size tree


$149.99


Stubben Close Contact 18 inch seat, Medium Tree, Used


Stubben Close Contact 18 inch seat, Medium Tree, Used


$240.00


NEW!! Thornhill ProAM Sterling CC Jumping Saddle 17.5


NEW!! Thornhill ProAM Sterling CC Jumping Saddle 17.5″ Med tree Oakbark CLOSEOUT


$700.00


MARCEL TOULOUSE ENGLISH SADDLE CLOSE CONTACT 16.5 Medium Tree


MARCEL TOULOUSE ENGLISH SADDLE CLOSE CONTACT 16.5 Medium Tree


$535.00


Carlyle All Purpose 16.5 English Saddle Medium Tree Brown Leather NO RESERVE!!!


Carlyle All Purpose 16.5 English Saddle Medium Tree Brown Leather NO RESERVE!!!


$203.50


Pessoa Amateur Owner A/O English Saddle 16 1/2 16.5 Long Flap Med Tree


Pessoa Amateur Owner A/O English Saddle 16 1/2 16.5 Long Flap Med Tree


$1,325.00


17


17″ Antares Close Contact Saddle Med. Tree! FULL CALFSKIN! Excellent Condition!


$3,150.00


Pessoa Legacy XP Jumping Saddle 17


Pessoa Legacy XP Jumping Saddle 17″ Medium Tree


$1,300.00


NEW #159 TUCKER ENDURANCE TRAIL SADDLE 16.5


NEW #159 TUCKER ENDURANCE TRAIL SADDLE 16.5″ MEDIUM TREE Black


$1,495.00


NEW TUCKER #167 CHEYENNE FRONTIER SADDLE 17.5


NEW TUCKER #167 CHEYENNE FRONTIER SADDLE 17.5″ Brown Medium Tree


$1,595.00


Equipe Extreme Saddle 17.5


Equipe Extreme Saddle 17.5″ medium tree


$1,300.00


Albion SLK Ultima Dressage Saddle 17.5 seat and Medium Wide tree


Albion SLK Ultima Dressage Saddle 17.5 seat and Medium Wide tree


$2,500.00


SCHLEESE JES ELITE Close Contact: 16.5


SCHLEESE JES ELITE Close Contact: 16.5″, Dark Brown, Medium Tree


$995.00


Hennig Dressage Saddle 17.5


Hennig Dressage Saddle 17.5″ Seat Med tree Black Narrow twist


$2,600.00


17


17″ NEW BT Crump Dressage Saddle, The Contender, Med. Tree, Black


$750.00


Sorrano Dressage Saddle - Black - 16 1-2 Medium Tree


Sorrano Dressage Saddle – Black – 16 1-2 Medium Tree


$177.50


Rare Crosby Prix de World Close Contact Saddle - 17-inch, medium tree


Rare Crosby Prix de World Close Contact Saddle – 17-inch, medium tree


$100.00


Close Contact Saddle. 17


Close Contact Saddle. 17″ Seat, Medium Tree. Kincade Brand, All Leather.


$175.00


Dressage Saddle, 17


Dressage Saddle, 17″. Medium Tree. Good Used Condition.


$109.99


Soft & Supple Close Contact BEVAL LTD SAddle 16.5


Soft & Supple Close Contact BEVAL LTD SAddle 16.5″ Reg/Med Tree Jumping Saddle


$320.00


Exselle Olympia All Purpose Saddle Brown 17.5


Exselle Olympia All Purpose Saddle Brown 17.5″ Med Tree NEW


$599.99


TEKNA Dressage Saddle 17 seat  med. tree NEW!! Black Synthetic Leather


TEKNA Dressage Saddle 17 seat med. tree NEW!! Black Synthetic Leather


$399.00


NEW! #259 TUCKER MULE TRAIL SADDLE 16.5


NEW! #259 TUCKER MULE TRAIL SADDLE 16.5″ Brown Medium Tree


$1,575.00


Prestige Versailles DP A+2 17/33 (medium tree)


Prestige Versailles DP A+2 17/33 (medium tree)


$2,400.00


ANTARES 2008  17


ANTARES 2008 17″ medium tree 2 flap close contact English Saddle CWD Butet


$3,059.00


Pessoa Gen-X - XCH w/ Pencil Knee Roll 17


Pessoa Gen-X – XCH w/ Pencil Knee Roll 17″ Medium Tree


$1,345.50


Pessoa Gen-X - XCH w/ Pencil Knee Roll 17.5


Pessoa Gen-X – XCH w/ Pencil Knee Roll 17.5″ Med Tree


$1,345.50


Hermes Steinkraus 16 1/2


Hermes Steinkraus 16 1/2 ” Med/Wide tree used 1 year MINT!


$1,095.00


Ovation Competition Show Jump Saddle w/ XCH Med Tree 16


Ovation Competition Show Jump Saddle w/ XCH Med Tree 16


$1,075.50


Ovation Competition Show Jump Saddle w/ XCH Med Tree 17


Ovation Competition Show Jump Saddle w/ XCH Med Tree 17


$1,075.50


The Juniper Bonsai Tree

As you know, there are many different types, varieties and species of bonsai trees. One of the most beautiful bonsai varieties is the juniper bonsai tree. Juniper can be found in all corners of the world. It would surprise you to realise how many times you’ve actually seen one in your neighbourhood without even realizing it.

There are different varieties of juniper trees but two are probably the most popular types.

The first type is known as flaky. The flaky bonsai tree is small and will rarely reach over 30 feet high. As bonsai trees grow in the wild, they do tend to be much bigger than what you see at homes and private gardens. The leaves on the flaky plant are broad needles and take on a blue-green hue. This type is native to China and the Himalayas but can be found all the way from Afghanistan to southwest China.

Another very popular variety of bonsai would be the Eastern. This bonsai tree is known for it’s dense foliage that refuses to grow when planted in poor soil. While it is possible for this tree to grow in poor soil, it will end up being little more than a small bush. When grown in good soil, this tree climb all the way up to 15 feet tall. Soil is one of the most important considerations when growing a bonsai tree, especially with watering (above). The soil needs to be well drained, and suitable for your area; in any case, it should be coarse. There are many different mediums relating to soil and content, and bonsai experts (or seasoned veterans) can provide information about using the different types of material together. Because of the different types of material, your “soil” might be anything but soil. This is why fertilizer knowledge is important. This bonsai type is native to North America, and can be found in mostly south-eastern Canada to all the way down by the Gulf of Mexico.

The Eastern variety has dark red bark that will strip off in neat, narrow strips and two different types of leaves. The first types is adult leaf, which look much more like scales and are less than half an inch long. The second type of leaves are the sharp and spreading needles that are usually around half an inch long.

Once you start to make your way to the western half of the continent, the Eastern juniper bonsai tree gets replaced with the Rocky Mountain juniper bonsai tree or the Ashe juniper bonsai tree. The Eastern juniper bonsai tree were actually placed on the IUCN’s list of threatened species back in 1996. While it only holds the category of Least concern (LR/lc), it still is a species of tree that is being watched for future decrease and need for repopulation within the United States and Canada.

About the Author

Have you ever heard about

Ficus Bonsai

?
Read about this exotic bonsai type.

Wintec Isabell

Wintec Isabell

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NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -17.0 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -17.0 – Floor Sample


$1,143.95


Used Wintec Isabell 17


Used Wintec Isabell 17″ Saddle – With warranty card, straps, cover, & Flexiblocs


$500.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dress Saddle - Flocked -16.5 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dress Saddle – Flocked -16.5 – Floor Sample


$1,143.95


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with CAIR, Black,17 1/2


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with CAIR, Black,17 1/2″, (2011 Model)


$599.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - CAIR - 16.5 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – CAIR – 16.5 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - CAIR - 16.5 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – CAIR – 16.5 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -17.0 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -17.0 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -17.0 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -17.0 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -18.0 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -18.0 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -18.0 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -18.0 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -17.5 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -17.5 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - Flocked -17.5 - Floor Sample


NEW Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – Flocked -17.5 – Floor Sample


$1,015.00


17


17″ Wintec Isabell dressage saddle w/ Cair


$525.00


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with Cair 16.5


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle with Cair 16.5″ Seat


$299.00


 WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 17


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 17″ CAIR BROWN


$1,305.00


 WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 17.5


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 17.5″ CAIR BROWN


$1,305.00


 WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 18


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle 18″ CAIR BROWN


$1,305.00


 WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle16.5


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle16.5″ CAIR BROWN


$1,305.00


NEW WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle - 17 CAIR


NEW WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle – 17 CAIR


$1,305.00


NEW WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle - 17.5 CAIR


NEW WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle – 17.5 CAIR


$1,305.00


18


18″ Wintec Isabell, Lightly Used, With Gullets And Cair


$500.00


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - 16.5 - Black


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – 16.5 – Black


$1,305.00


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - 17 - Black


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – 17 – Black


$1,305.00


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - 17.5 - Black


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – 17.5 – Black


$1,305.00


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle - 18 - Black


Wintec Isabell Dressage Saddle – 18 – Black


$1,305.00


NEW MODEL WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 17.5


NEW MODEL WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 17.5


$1,305.00


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle - 16.5 Size CAIR


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle – 16.5 Size CAIR


$1,305.00


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle - 18 CAIR


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle – 18 CAIR


$1,305.00


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 16.5  BLACK


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 16.5 BLACK


$1,305.00


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 16.5  BROWN


WINTEC Isabell Dressage Saddle FLOCK 16.5 BROWN


$1,305.00


How hard are your CAIR panels?

I have just got a saddle I am borrowing to see if I like it, and then can buy it. It is a Wintec Isabell with CAIR. I love the Isabell’s, but haven’t tried a CAIR one before. Now I picked up the saddle this afternoon, so haven’t actually ridden in it yet, but the panels seem really soft and squishy… Is this normal or are they meant to be harder? It was checked by a saddle fitter only 6 months ago and he thought it was great apparently, So i am just wondering how everyone elses CAIR saddles are? Are your panels really soft, or harder?

The CAIR panels are a combination of foam and atmospheric air (as opposed to FLAIR panels, which have air pumped into them – sort of like a tire); they can only be adjusted by adding flock to the channel above them (in older models) or with a shim system (on newer saddles). The panels should have enough give to be pliable, but not so much give that they allow the tree to make contact with the horse’s back.

Two things to keep in mind: 1) When assessing fit of a saddle with the CAIR system, you need to have the rider up and the horse in motion. The CAIR system can make a saddle seem “perched” without the rider up, and you can’t accurately assess the fit.

2) In high altitudes (think 5,000 ft. and up) the air in the CAIR panels will expand, and the panels will become quite hard. I wouldn’t recommend that system for use in very high altitudes.

Saddle Pad

Saddle Pad

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Hilason Western Endurance Wool Felt Gel Saddle Pad TA528


Hilason Western Endurance Wool Felt Gel Saddle Pad TA528


$95.00


YELLOW NONSLIP WESTERN TACKY TACK NEOPRENE SADDLE PAD


YELLOW NONSLIP WESTERN TACKY TACK NEOPRENE SADDLE PAD


$55.00


Pleasure Trail Riding Bareback Saddle Pad Treeless 109


Pleasure Trail Riding Bareback Saddle Pad Treeless 109


$149.09


WESTERN GEL SADDLE PAD BLANKET WITH ANTI SLIP BASE 222


WESTERN GEL SADDLE PAD BLANKET WITH ANTI SLIP BASE 222


$59.35


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad - Brown/Green - Measures 30


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad – Brown/Green – Measures 30″ by 28 ”


$0.99


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad - Red/Black - Measures 29 1/2


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad – Red/Black – Measures 29 1/2″ by 27″


$0.99


NEW OVERSIZE 100% WOOL BEIGE TAN CAMEL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD 3.75 LBS 35 x 40


NEW OVERSIZE 100% WOOL BEIGE TAN CAMEL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD 3.75 LBS 35 x 40


$150.00


DENIM & NAVY BLUE CUSTOM LOOMED 5 LB 100% WOOL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD 34 x 38


DENIM & NAVY BLUE CUSTOM LOOMED 5 LB 100% WOOL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD 34 x 38


$299.00


DENNIS MORELAND COWBOY TACK WOOL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD100% WOOL 6 LBS 32 x 36


DENNIS MORELAND COWBOY TACK WOOL SHOW SADDLE BLANKET PAD100% WOOL 6 LBS 32 x 36


$249.00


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad - Red/Black - Measures 30


Navajo Western Saddle Blanket Pad – Red/Black – Measures 30″ by 28″


$8.50


925 Western Show Barrel Racing Rodeo Saddle Blanket Pad


925 Western Show Barrel Racing Rodeo Saddle Blanket Pad


$44.00


NWT Teal/blue/green western mayatex show pad navajo saddle blanket


NWT Teal/blue/green western mayatex show pad navajo saddle blanket


$13.00


English Hilason Treeless Gel Saddle Pad with Anti-Slip TA356-F


English Hilason Treeless Gel Saddle Pad with Anti-Slip TA356-F


$69.00


German Made Saddle Pad - New w/ tag still on - Black - Satteldecke von Gera


German Made Saddle Pad – New w/ tag still on – Black – Satteldecke von Gera


$19.00


New 14 Show Green Ostrich Synthetic Western Horse Saddle Tack Set Free Pad


New 14 Show Green Ostrich Synthetic Western Horse Saddle Tack Set Free Pad


$249.99


WOOL WESTERN SHOW TRAIL SADDLE FUR PAD RODEO MIX OF RUST AND RED


WOOL WESTERN SHOW TRAIL SADDLE FUR PAD RODEO MIX OF RUST AND RED


$45.00


Blue Western Saddle Blanket / Pad 57


Blue Western Saddle Blanket / Pad 57″x 27″ Navaho Print CLEAN & In Great Shape


$1.04


WOOL WESTERN SHOW TRAIL SADDLE PAD BLANKT PINK RODEO


WOOL WESTERN SHOW TRAIL SADDLE PAD BLANKT PINK RODEO


$55.99


New 18 Premium Brown Synthetic Horse Show Trail Saddle Alligator Print Pad Tack


New 18 Premium Brown Synthetic Horse Show Trail Saddle Alligator Print Pad Tack


$220.00


Solid Brown Wool Felt Heavy Western Horse Saddle Pad


Solid Brown Wool Felt Heavy Western Horse Saddle Pad


$54.99


WOOL CLASSIC WESTERN SHOW TRAIL RODEO SADDLE PAD BLACK RODEO TACK SHOCK ABSORBER


WOOL CLASSIC WESTERN SHOW TRAIL RODEO SADDLE PAD BLACK RODEO TACK SHOCK ABSORBER


$89.99


Ecotak pink stock/western saddle cloth/pad/blanket CLEARANCE


Ecotak pink stock/western saddle cloth/pad/blanket CLEARANCE


$30.58


WHITE ENGLISH EQUESTRIAN QUILTED PONY SADDLE PAD


WHITE ENGLISH EQUESTRIAN QUILTED PONY SADDLE PAD


$4.99


WHITE ENGLISH EQUESTRIAN QUILTED PONY SADDLE PAD


WHITE ENGLISH EQUESTRIAN QUILTED PONY SADDLE PAD


$4.99


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


$4.99


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


$4.99


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


WHITE ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED BABY SADDLE PAD


$4.99


WHITE DOVER SADDLERY ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED SADDLE PAD


WHITE DOVER SADDLERY ENGLISH HORSE PONY EQUESTRIAN QUILTED SADDLE PAD


$4.99


New horsehead /horseshoe design saddle pad, super soft and plush approx 31  x 32


New horsehead /horseshoe design saddle pad, super soft and plush approx 31 x 32


$20.00


New Red/blue and black design Cutter style saddle pad with fleece, approx 32x34


New Red/blue and black design Cutter style saddle pad with fleece, approx 32×34


$24.44


Saddle Up Right For A Great Ride

For any horse rider whether he is in to show jumping, professional horse riding or racing or simply for the love of the ride, the saddle and the numnah or the saddle pad are most important to ensure the comfort of the horse. You have to have a firm saddle with numnahs or saddlepads that fits well. In this field, British made numnahs are available in a wide range so as to meet the demands of the most discerning rider.

The saddlepads that are available must fit well in order that the best protection is provided to the horse. The better numnahs are made of pure British wool pile in 5 oz quilt with a rolled edge and deep wool pile. These are both smart and durable. The British made numnahs are available in different styles, color and sizes. The various styles refer to Dressage or DR, GP and WH or Working Hunter. The sizes are spread over from small to medium and large to extra large. Some of the numnahs are designed to be ideal for either horses that are to be ridden over a long period or those that have sensitive backs.

The latest products available are the gullet free numnahs. These British made Numnahs are made from specially selected and very dense British wool of superior quality. These have top quality firm quilt using a combination of excellent materials that guarantee the best performance from the horse because of the comfort that it enjoys. This range is currently available in the form of high wither half numnahs with collars, half wool pads that are very popular with dressage riders due to the generous length of the flap and half wool pads with collars at the front and back that’s bound to be great for all kinds of riders that include GP, DR and show jumping.

Variations in the saddlepads include those in self-colored wool and those that use lightweight wool. Yet, some others have different colors for the wool and the quilt for additional appeal and those that have the pressure points softened by wool lining to provide greater comfort to the horse.

About the Author

The article is an effort of the webmaster at www.nuumed.com. We specialize in manufacturing British made Numnahs, side saddle, seatsavers, corrective pads, dressage, saddlepads, half numnahs and horse accessories meeting to a wide range of specifications.

Regular Havana

Regular Havana

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New HDR All Purpose Synthetic English Saddle Havana 17


New HDR All Purpose Synthetic English Saddle Havana 17″ Seat Regular Tree


$149.95


HDR Competition All Purpose Saddle-17 Regular-Havana


HDR Competition All Purpose Saddle-17 Regular-Havana


$277.95


Havanese Puppy And Dog Information

The Havanese comes from Cuba where they were pampered lap dogs. They love people and are not above learning tricks to amuse us. They are known to be very obedient and they get along well with other dogs and pets. They are very tuned into their human family and like to find a high perch to keep an eye on everything. They are very good with children and make good watch dogs. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with any puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Havanese is 8.5 to 11.5 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 7 to 13 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Havanese is no exception. They are a healthy breed with long life attributes but be on the look out for juvenile cataracts, progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), and dry skin. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Havanese has a double coat, the outer coat is long and silky and the inner coat is also soft. She needs to be brushed at least twice a week. Pay attention to extra hair around her feet pads, and clean around eyes. They are non shedding and considered a good dog for allergy sufferers.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Havanese can live between 14 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Havanese come from Cuba where they were developed from the Bichons. She is considered the national dog of Cuba. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1995.

Some Registries:
*Havanese Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 1 to 9, average 4 Havanese puppies

Category: Toy

Terms To Describe: Comical, wary, charming, sturdy, pampered, playful, alert, intelligent, sweet

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Good watch dog.
Rarely sheds, good for allergy sufferers.
Very friendly dog.
Pampered lap dog.
Good temperament.
Good with obedience.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Poor guard dog.
Can be very vocal.

*Other Names Known By: Bichon Havanais, Havana Silk Dog

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

About the Author

Mitch Endick is a short article writer, editor and website developer for the popular pet site petpages.com.
www.petpages.com is a pet information site with free pet ads, dog classifieds, and puppy for sale info Petpages.com also offers information on cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice and even pet bugs.

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Horse Breeds – Types of Warmbloods

Warmbloods are amazing animals. They are some of the most beautiful horses in the world, with a versatility that is unbelievable. Warmbloods, unlike what many people think, are a true breed. All of the studbooks are closed. What this means is only a horse of that breed can be registered in that studbook. The only exception is individuals of other breeding that are deemed to be able to improve the bloodline of the current breed. This is shown through performance records and the success of offspring in competition. There are various types of Warmbloods:

The Hanoverian

The Hanoverian’s originate from Germany. There primary use is for dressage and show jumping. These horses are mildly temperamental, with more of a calmness in nature than many horse breeds. The most common coloring in the Hanoverian are Chestnut, Bay and Grey.

The Hanoverian Horse is a well built, well put together horse with much success in the disciplines of dressage and show jumping. This breed tends to be very versatile.

The Holsteiner

The Holsteiner originates from Germany, usually reaching 16 to 17 hands. These horses are mildly temperamental and are used for show jumping, dressage and reining. They tend to usually be bay in color, but mostly any solid coloring. Most Hosteiners have a defined canter that tends to be very expressive, but lacks an impressiveness at the trot. They are typically well known as excellent jumpers but have made their imprint on the dressage community.

Dutch Warmblood

The Dutch Warmblood’s originate from Holland and are very easy going, typically calm in nature. These good tempered horses are built well running around 16 to 17 hands. They are known to excel at whatever discipline they are trained by.

Friesian

The Friesians originate from Holland and Germany with the studbook now kept in Germany, the FPZ. They are mildly temperamental growing to a huge size of 17 hands. They are primarily used for Dressage and reining but are sometimes seen on the show jumping circuit. These horses are also used for trick training, being widely versatile and very easily trainable. There are distinct characteristics of the Friesians. Baroque, which is mainly upright, with higher action and more feathering with a heavier mane and tail. Traditional, which is heavier and more drafty usually used for driving, and Sport Horse, which is used for all types of riding and driving. These horses are amazing. Very versatile with a very calm temperament for such an enormous horse.

Swedish Warmblood

The Swedish Warmbloods originate from Sweden, obviously. They will grow to be 16 to 17 hands. The are used for show jumping, dressage and reining. There coloring is all solid, predominantly Chestnut. The Swedish Warmbloods are one of the youngest warmblood breeds , so true “type” is not quite defined. Mainly having solid movements, with the conformation and their temperament being highly variable.

Trakhener

The Trakheners originate from Poland and East Prissuia. They tend to be a little more temperamental than a lot of other warmbloods. They are used for dressage, jumping and eventing. Coloring is mainly solid with defined characteristics of nice movements with good push from behind. They tend to be a bit stubborn and even difficult at times. Although there are some very lovely Trakheners. This breed possess a strong competitive drive owing perhaps to the large amount of Thoroughbred blood most carry.

Oldenburg

The Oldenburgs originate from Germany. They grown to the large size of 16 to 17 hands. These horses are very calm and loveable. There coloring is solid but any color. They are primarily used for dressage and jumping. They were the first studbook with an American Division. Interestingly enough, all American Warmbloods approved by the ISR are registered as Oldenburgs, regardless of their actual parentage.

Andalusians

The Andalusians originate from Spain. They are smaller in height, ranging from 14.3 to 16 hands. They are used for dressage, bullfighting, parades and trick training. They come in solid colors, including mulberry. Bay and grey are the most common. Black and Dun are the least common. Andalusians are classically styled Baroque horses. They have thick manes and tails and tend to have high , lofty actions for their size. The Spanish Olympic Team was comprised entirely of Andalusians for the 2000 Games.

Horses are an amazing animal, no matter what the breed or bloodlines. They love their owners and one forms an attachment to their horse like no other. I couldn’t imagine my life without my horse.

About the Author

Nanette Hughston is a freelance writer from the southern United States Region. She has a bachelor’s degree in finance. She rides dressage with Grand Prix Level Trainer, Tracy Masterson at Highlife Farms, Orlando, FL. For more information and articles please see her website at http://www.dressageamerica.com and http://www.informbyweb.com and to visit her training site, please visit http://www.highlifefarms.com for dressage and hunter/ jumper information. Permission for reprint is granted with full bio remaining intact.

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Thiruvananthapuram-Where God was the King

SANJAI VELAYUDHAN

INTRODUCTION:

The modern Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of the beautiful land of Kerala and was formerly known as Trivandrum. Under the royal rule of the Venad Royal family, it was called Thiruvithamkoor and also known by its anglicized name Travancore.It was one of the oldest inhabited places in India. Located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland, it was always the political nerve centre of Kerala. Ruled by some of the most powerful and liberal rulers, its life was always centered on the Padmanabha Swamy temple whose presiding deity is Sree Padmanabha or Vishnu. According to the Hindu mythology, the cosmic trinity consisted of Brahma-the creator, Shiva-the destroyer and Vishnu-the preserver. In an innovative more to pre-empt any invasions by local rivals, one of the strongest rulers Marthanda Varma consecrated the “thrippadidhanam” in the 17th century. According to this, the lord Vishnu was crowned as the actual ruler of the kingdom and the king became his servant ‘Padmanabha Dasa”. With this, Sri Padmanabha became the “actual” head of the state of Travancore, assuming the title Perumal or the Emperor. The women folk of the royal family were known as “Padmanabha Dasinis” again female servants of the lord Padmanabha. In an orthodox Hindu society, attacking the lord’s kingdom would have been sacrilege. People did and do actually believe that the lord has been administering Thiruvananthapuram and acting through the contemporary ruler.  The British Government saluted the Lord with a 21-gun salute, a military tradition of colonial days, which was continued by the Indian Army until the abolition of the privy purses (in a way de-legitimizing any royal claims), by Government of India when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister. The royal insignia of the Lord, the Valampiri Shankhu or dextral conch-shell, served as the State emblem of Travancore and even continued so for some time after the re-organization of the States. Sri Padmanabha is still regarded as the presiding deity of Thiruvananthapuram.

The name Thiruvananthapuram may be split into three-Thiru- Anantha-Puram, which means the city of the Holy Anantha. Anantha is the mythical, cosmic serpent with a thousand heads, on whose coils Lord Vishnu (Padmanabha) reclines. Though the temple had existed long before, it was rebuilt and brought to prominence by the King Marthanda Varma of the Travancore Royal family when, in 1745, he shifted the Travancore capital from Padamanabhapuram in the south (today in the neighboring State of Tamil Nadu) to Thiruvananthapuram. As mentioned earlier having done the “thrippadidhanam” he started reigning as ‘Padmanabha Dasa’, the servant and representative of Lord Padmanabha–perhaps a nobler variant of the ‘Divine Right Theory’ that the West is familiar with.

The ancient land of Thiruvananthapuram was built upon seven hills and having played a vital role in Kerala politics has kept pace with evolution and today has grown into a sprawling metropolis. Yet, she still retains her past glory and old charm, that is visible from the old quarter of the city clustered in and around the East Fort, a protected landmark that dates back to the Royal days. What perhaps is special about the ambience of Thiruvananthapuram is the wonderful blend of the strongly traditional, the nostalgically Colonial and the outright modern elements, be it in architecture, in food or in the dress and manners of her people.

 

Adding to its legend and stature is the belief that the ships of King Solomon landed on ones of its prominent ports called Ophir (modern name Poovar) in 1036 BC. However, the ancient political and cultural history of the city was almost entirely independent from that of the rest of Kerala.

The rise of modern Thiruvananthapuram began with accession of Marthanda Varma in 1729 as the founding ruler of the princely state of Travancore. Thiruvananthapuram was made the capital of Travancore in 1745. The city developed into a major intellectual and artistic centre during this period. The golden age in the city’s history was during the mid 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal (the great musician) and Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal.

With the end of the British rule in India in 1947, the glory days of the royal rule were finally over and Travancore (the kingdom was originally called such) was merged with the Indian union. The state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956 and in accordance with its stature, Thiruvananthapuram became the capital of the new state.

Despite a royal past, Thiruvananthapuram has kept up with the times. Apart from having the pride of being the capital of India’s most literate and socially developed state, Thiruvananthapuram is a strategically important city in Southern India. With a fledgling country desperately wanting to establish itself in the field of science, chose Thiruvananthapuram to be the cradle of India’s ambitious and now successful space programme. The presence of Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) in 1962, the first Indian space rocket was developed and launched from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) located in the outskirts of the city in 1963. Several establishments of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) were later established in Thiruvananthapuram. It is also important from the military logistics and civil aviation point of view falling under the international air route. It is also very close to the international shipping route and East-West shipping axis.  

The establishment of Technopark—India’s first IT Park in 1995 helped in its metamorphosis as a modern city. Technopark has developed into the largest IT Park in India and third largest in Asia and is home to some of the global IT giants and has fostered the development of the “knowledge warrior”. It employs more than 50,000 such warriors and these highly paid people have also contributed to its economic uplift. Thiruvananthapuram was and will always remain a prominent and contemporarily important location on the map of India.

Geography:

Located at 8°30?N76°54?E? / ?8.5°N 76.9°E? / 8.5; 76.9 on the west coast, near the southern tip of mainland India, Thiruvananthapuram is built on hills by the sea shore. The city and the suburbs cover an area of about 250 square kilometers, sandwiched between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. The average elevation is 16 ft from the sea level. District Area: 2192 km².

The area can be divided into two geographical regions, the lowlands, midlands and highlands. The lowland is a narrow stretch comprising shorelines, rivers and deltas, dotted with coconut palms. Vellayani Lake, biggest fresh water lake in the district is in the suburbs of the city. The major rivers that flow through the city are the Karamana River, and the Killi River. The midland region comprises low hills and valleys adjoining the Ghats. The eastern suburbs of the city fall within the highlands, whose highest point in the district is the Agasthyakudam which rises 1890 m above sea level. Ponmudi and Mukkunimala are hill-stations near the city.

The regal land is blessed with a long shoreline, dotted with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage converting this into a much sought after tourist destination. With a tradition dating back to 1000BC, lies on a small strip of land with plenty of coconut & palm trees, and an active trading post for spices, sandalwood, ivory etc.

Culture

Thiruvananthapuram has a rich cultural background thanks to the rulers of erstwhile Travancore, who took an active interest in the development of arts and culture. Thiruvananthapuram has produced several great artists, the most famous ones being Maharaja Swathi Thirunal (musician) and Raja Ravi Varma (painter). Maharaja Swathi Thirunal was a great composer and played a vital role in the development of Carnatic music. There is a music college in his name in the city – Swathi Thirunal College of Music. Raja Ravi Varma was an illustrious painter of international renown. His contributions to Indian art are substantial.

Ancient history

While most parts of Kerala were dominated by the Brahmin Namboodhiris, Thiruvananthapuram was under the Ay dynasty, a clan known for its rich traditional and religious heritage. The Ays were the leading political power till the beginning of the 10th century A.D. and its writ extended from Nagerkovil in the South to Thiruvalla in the North. The Ays were caught in between the constant and recurring tussle for political power between the Chera-Chola dynasties (powerful entities of south India fighting for dominance of the region) wars from 999 to 1110 A.D.  All of the regions were attacked and sacked by the Chola army, till they were forced to retreat to Kottar in 1110 A.D. The annihilation of the Ay dynasty led to the emergence of the rulers of Venad. Under the Ays, the most prominent city was Vizhinjham which had a famous port of the same name and also housed a famous university (Kanthalur Salai). The Venad rulers set up efficient administrative systems and the kingdom saw its pinnacle under the King, Udaya Marthanda. The Venad rule brought about development of Kerala into a capital of art and learning. Ravi Varma Kulashekhara was a renowned scholar and musician. He became the mentor for artists, musicians, poets of Thiruvananthapuram. A great writer himself, he has penned the Sanskrit play “Pradyumnabhyudayam”. The pro-active rule of the Venads made Thiruvananthapuram, the region then known by the name of Travancore, a bustling trading center.

According to legends, the Padamanabhapuram temple existed from earlier times thus lending the land a certain divine sanction. Though the Venad royal family remained the last ruling family in the region, establishing its authority was not an easy affair. Since Padmanabhaswami temple was the pivot around which life revolved, acquiring control of its affair was a strategic prerogative. The tussle between royalty and the traditional administrators of the temple was inevitable. During their rule, the trustees of the temple (Ettarayogam) became powerful enough to challenge the authority of the rulers. The king Raja Aditya Varma was poisoned by them, and five out of six children of Umayamma Rani were murdered by them. After the death of Aditya Varma, the kingdom was under the regency of Umayamma Rani. During this time, Travancore was invaded by a Mughal adventurer, Mughal Sirdar, forcing the Rani to take refuge in Nedumangad. The Sardar camped in the suburbs of the present day Thiruvananthapuram, till he was defeated by Kerala Varma, a prince from the Kottayam royal family, adopted into the Venad royal family. The Rani was brought back in triumph to Thiruvananthapuram, but in 1696 A.D., Kottayam Kerala Varma the hero was assassinated by the temple trustees within the precincts of his own palace in a daring act. Though eventually, through deceit, blood and iron, the control of the temple affairs came to the hands of the royal family thus eventually offering their rule legitimacy. The temple has always remained the key for sanctity to rule.

The regency of Umayamma Rani was crucial in the history of Thiruvananthapuram since it was during her regency in 1684, that the English East India Company obtained a sandy piece of land at Anchuthengu (land o the five coconut trees-Anjengo (anglicized) on the sea coast, about 32 km north of Thiruvananthapuram city, for erecting a factory and fortifying it. The place had earlier been frequented by the Portuguese and later by the Dutch. It was from here that the English gradually extended their domain to other parts of Thiruvithamkoor anglicized as Travancore. One may say this transaction with the British eventually proved a turning point for the Venad royal family as the British eventually took control of the affairs of the region with very limited powers left in the hands of its original rulers.

Though Portuguese were the first Europeans to land on the West coast of Kerala in the early sixteenth century, it was the Dutch who built dominated the trade. By the middle of 1600, the Dutch had entrenched themselves firmly in Travancore. Their dominance was disturbed by the invasion of the Mysore strongman Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. With the ascension of Marthanda Varma and his strong rule literally drove the Dutch out from the region. The exit of the Dutch led the way for the British domination. With south Indian rulers weakened by constant wars, the British saw an opportunity for itself. They started their campaign to oust all the European countries trading in the region by the end 1600s they ended up not just as dominant traders but as rulers of most parts of the Kerala including the Travancore. The only resistance to British dominance was put up by the French which was effectively thwarted. The East India Company had finally “arrived” in Kerala. It was a long journey “having started with a small “factory” at Anchuthengu-a small sandy strip, bought from then ruler Umayamma Rani, they ended up as rulers. Though the Venad family continued as regal heads with diluted powers mainly related to agrarian affairs, till the independence of India on 15th August, 1947, it was the British who were truly kings.

Conclusion: Despite the ascendancy of some strong rulers like Marthanda Varma, the politics and economy of Kerala was dominated by foreign powers predominantly Europeans. Even “God” who was the “real” ruler couldn’t prevent this domination by foreign powers. In a way, Thiruvananthapuram’s history is Kerala’s history in turn India’s history.

Padmanabha Swamy Temple-the axis mundi

A must on every tourist’s itinerary, the ancient Padmanabhaswami temple is believed to be one of the 108 shrines (divyadesams) sacred to the Vaishnavites (followers of God Vishnu) in India.  Architecture has the power of dominating the mind of the masses and the sheer size of its 100-feet-high (with seven stories) gopuram (tower) soaring majestically skywards does not fail to evoke an awe-inspiring experience. Within its hallowed precincts, the main pavilion impresses with its 400 beautiful pillars carved out of granite. The temple has a corridor with 365 and one-quarter sculptured granite-stone pillars with elaborate carvings. This corridor extends from the eastern side into the sanctum sanctorum.The stone basement of the tower is covered with elaborate sculptures and the masonry above is replete with ornamental works of figures from the Puranas and other ancient Hindu scriptures. Tapering towards the top, it bears the statue of Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu. The temple stands by the side of a tank, called Padma Theertham (meaning spring of the lotus). An eighty-foot flag-staff stands in front of the main entry from the ‘prakaram’ (corridor). The ground floor under the gopuram (main entrance in the eastern side) is known as the ‘Nataka-Shala’ where the famous temple art, Kathakali was staged in the night during the ten-day uthsavam (festival) conducted twice a year, during the Malayalam months of Meenam and Thulam.

Well guarded with a number of massive doors, the sanctum sanctorum or Garbhagriha is carved out of a single stone and hence called “Ottakkal Mandapam” (meaning pavilion carved out of a single rock). In order to perform darshan and puja, one has to climb on to the “Ottakkal Mandapam”. The deity is huge and is visible through three doors – Face of the Lord and Siva Linga underneath his hand in the first door, Brahma seated on lotus emanating from the Lord’s navel along with the “Uthsava Moorthi” and idols of Lord Maha Vishnu, Sridevi and Bhudevi in the second door and the Lord’s feet in the third door. The deity, Padmanabha, is depicted Lying in a reclining position over the serpent Anantha or Adi Sesha in the form of Maha-Vishnu in Yoganidra posture. This sleep of the lord has been called Anananthasayanam (eternal cosmic sleep). The serpent has his face pointed upwards, as if enjoying the smell emanating from the lotus held in his left hand. The idol is made up of 10,008 Salagramas (stones from water bodies considered to be symbolic of Vishnu). These Salagramas were procured from the banks of the river Gandaki in Nepal, brought with much ceremony on elephants.

Only the King of Travancore may perform the Namaskaram, or bow prostrate on this “Ottakkal Mandapam”. Since the idol of the Lord is also on this “Ottakkal Mandapam”, anybody who bows prostrate, or any material object that is kept here, henceforth belongs to the Lord. Here, the King is called a “Padmanabha Dasa”, or a “servant” of Vishnu.

There are other important shrines inside the temple dedicated to other Hindu deities like Narasimha, Krishna, Ayyappa, Ganesha, Hanuman, Vishwaksena, Garuda etc. It was recently discovered that the main idol is entirely cast in gold except for the face and chest. Katu-sarkara-yogam, a dark colored ayurvedic paste used to keep flies and pests away was applied on the entire idol in order to disguise its intrinsic medium in order to thwart its looting the Muslim invaders

Keeping with its reputation as a centre of power, several kings, queens, other members of royalty and nobility have also built their palaces and mansions in and around the temple. It may be said that the region around the temple formed the sanctum sanctorum of Thiruvananthapuram. 

Mythology

Padmanabhaswami Temple stands at a place considered as one of the seven Parashurama Kshetras; texts including the Puranas, particularly the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana, have references for this shrine. According to tradition, it is located on the place where Vishnu revealed himself to sages Divakara Swami and Vilvamangalam Swami. There are many legends regarding the origin of the temple. One story describes that a Pulaya (one of the lowest castes in the discriminatory caste system) couple was given the darshan by Vishnu in the form of a child. The child took morsels of rice from the hands of the couple (in those days when Untouchability was practices, the lord taking food from a Pulaya couple was rather melodramatic).  During this time, the sage Divakara passed by and he recognised the “boy” and he took the first food item he saw which was an Unripe Mango and using a coconut shell as an offering plate, he paid his obeisance.  In memory of this legend, even today the naivedyam or the offering to the laity after a pooja is prepared from rice and is offered to the deity in a coconut shell. Another version describes that the Sage Divakara prayed to the God Krishna for a darshan. Krishna (a manifestation of Vishnu) gave an audience but in the guise as a small, mischievous boy. The boy swallowed the Salagrama (sacred stone symbolizing God Vishnu) which was being prayed to. The Sage was enraged at this act and chased the boy. He in fear hid himself behind a tree. The tree collapsed and took the form of Vishnu in Anantha Shayanam. But the form was of extraordinarily large proportions. The sage was amazed and overwhelmed by this life-altering experience. He was unable to fathom the entire form due to its sheer size and pleaded the form may be shrunk enough for him to see and circumambulate in devotion. The Lord respecting the sage’s vision shrink to a smaller proportion – thrice the length of his staff and told the sage that he should be worshipped through three doors. These doors are now the doors in the temple through which the idol may be viewed. Through the first door, the worship is offered to Shiva; through the second entrance to Brahma on the Lord’s lotus navel, and through the third is Vishnu’s feet, which are said to lead to salvation.

 Festivals

The temple is known for major festivals. Two of them are celebrated bi-annually-the Alpashy festival in October/November and the Painkuni festival in March/April, lasting for 10 days each. These festivals culminate with the performance of the Pallivetta (Royal hunt) and Aarattu (Holy bath) -the two important rituals held as part of the festivals in some of the major temples in Kerala. The uniqueness of the Aarattu at Sree Padmanabhaswami temple is that the head of the royal family of the erstwhile Travancore kingdom still escorts the idols during the procession donning his traditional attire. During Pallivetta the head of the royal family shoots a tender coconut using a bow and arrow. This ritual is symbolic of Lord Vishnu hunting down the demon of evil in a forest and is held in front of the Sundara-vilasam Palace inside the Thiruvananthapuram fort. The Aarat or the holy bath after taken in a procession to the Shankumugham Beach. The idols of Padmanabhaswami, Krishna and Narasimha are given a ritual bathe in the sea, after the prescribed poojas. After this ceremony, the idols are taken back to the temple as a procession in the light of traditional torches, marking the conclusion of the festival. It is also famous for Navaratri festival wherein the mother goddess is venerated in different manifestations including that of Saraswati & Durga. This festival lasts for 9 days. The iconic Swathi Thirunal (a famous musician-king) music festival is held every year during this festival that attracts musicians from all over the country and is a musical-feast.

Another biggest festival associated with this temple is the “Laksha-deepam”, which means the lighting of a hundred thousand lamps. This unique festival is unique and happens once in 6 years. In preparation of the festival, prayers from the Vedas (holy texts of the Hindus) are recited for 56 days and with the commencement of the festival, a hundred thousand oil lamps are lit in and around the temple premises. The reflection of the bright gopura is visible on the Padma Theertham and is an awesome sight. The last Laksha-deepam was in 2008 and the next one is slated to be held on January 2014

Other prominent places to visit (just a few of them):

(1) The Napier Museum- it is named after the former governor of Madras, General John Napier. The building with its profusion of gables and turrets is beautiful and the outcome of the creative thoughts of the English architect Chisholm. It is a product of ecclectical ideas and combines varying architectural styles. It is located within the aptly named museum compound and close to the iconic Kanakakunnu (golden hill) Palace. A repository of fine works of art, it displays rare archaeological and historical artifacts including bronze idols, ivory carvings, Stone sculptures and ornaments dating from 11th century to the 18th century. The chief attraction here is the 250-year-old temple car made for Lord Vishnu (Padmanabha), artistically designed and ornamented. Besides this, objects carved out of wood, models of temple, antique jewelry, etc., make the museum worth a visit. The museum better known as Thiruvananthapuram museum or Art museum was built in 1855 making it the oldest in Kerala. 

(2) Sree Chithra Art Gallery is also located within the Museum compound and displays a rare collection of paintings. Its main attractions are paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, Nicholas Roerich, Rabindranath Tagore, Jamimi Roy, K. K. Hebar, along with miniatures from the Rajput and Mughal schools of painting and the famous Tanjore paintings encrusted with semi-precious stones and mural paintings typifying malayali culture. It also exhibits paintings from around the world including China, Japan, Tibet and Bali. It was inaugurated the KingChithira Thirunal in 1935. The most important collection includes rare mural paintings dating back to the pre historic time. The Sree Chithra Enclave is located adjacent to the gallery. This is a museum that depicts the history of the Travancore Royal Family and displays their personal belongings and artifacts including old newspaper clippings.  

(3) Palace museum also known as the Kuthira Malika (Puthenmalika) Palace: It islocated on the eastern entrance of the Padmanabhaswami temple. It has a good collection of many antique items used during the reign of the Travancore kings. The museum is well maintained and has artifacts, paintings, wood carvings, huge chandeliers, Belgian glass mirrors, marble sculptures, weapons, portraits of Travancore kings & their thrones. Being an erstwhile royal building built by famous musician-King Swathi Thirunal in 1844, it is also a walk into the haloed residence of the kings. The building is called Kuthiramalika(Horse palace) because the palace exterior has a lot of wooden horse figures carved into it. This beautiful, two storied, 80-room palace was built based on the traditional Kerala architecture.

(4) The Kanakakunnu Palace. The red and white colored Palace is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. It is located well within its centre. Located besides the Napier Museum, it is an architectural classic is often the venue for exhibitions and cultural programs. It was originally commissioned by the then Travancore King, Moolam Thirunal and built on the crest of a small hill surrounded by meadows and grooves, it was used to hold royal banquets.

(5) Navarathri Mandapam: It islocated adjacent to the Padmanabha Swami temple, near the Kuthira Malika Palace. It is the venue of the 10-day annual Navarathri celebrations.

(6) Sree Parashurama Temple, Thiruvallam- The temple lies six kilometers south from the city, on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kovalam road. According to the prevailing local traditions, this temple is2000 years old temple and lies on the banks of Karamana River. Origin myths of Kerala attribute its creation to the warrior-sage Parashurama (an avatar of lord Vishnu). It is the only temple in Kerala dedicated to him. Ancestor-worship being widely prevalent in Kerala, this is “the” spot for ‘Balitharpanam’ (annual offering to dead for the peace of their soul). The temple is a protected monument and had been dated back to the 13th century.

(7) Shanmugham Beach- Another splendid beach, it is located close to the airport 8 kilometers from the city. It is the best place to watch sunset. The famous 35 m long “Matsya Kanyaka’ (the mermaid) sculpture designed by the local artist Kanayi Kunjiraman is an added attraction here. One may see a few palaces, old pavilions etc in and around the beach.

(8) Kovalam- The iconic beach of Kerala known as the “Paradise of the South”, is located 16 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram city has been on the tourists’ radar since the 1930′s. The name in local vernacular means “a grove of coconut trees” and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. It consists of two adjacent beaches- ‘Samudra’ and the ‘Howah’. The Howah beach has black sand and is a contrast to the pristine white sands of Kovalam. There is an Lighthouse that stands as a sentinel to the old times when merchant ships from other lands would arrive for trading. These beaches are close to the Vizhinjham port.

 (9) Vizhinjham Rock Cut Cave Temple: dating backto the18th century, these cave temples are dedicated to Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi (a benevolent manifestation of the destroyer among the Hindu trinity lord Shiva). It is about 17 kilometers from the Thiruvananthapuram city. Located between a small well maintained garden, it also has sculptures related to Lord Siva and Parvathy. The cave is a recent discovery.

(10) Varkala: it is an important Hindu pilgrimage center in this region. Its fame originates from the presence of the ‘Papanasham’ (Papanasham means redemption from sins or destruction of sins) beach, The Janardhana Swami Temple (2000 years old according to “legends”) and Sivagiri. The Papanasham beach also known as the Varkala beach lies 45 kilometers away from Thiruvananthapuram. It is also ideal for viewing the sunset. Red laterite cliffs’ overlooking the beach is the main attraction. According to mythology, the sage Naradha created the place Varkala with his ‘Valkalam’ (cloth made of the bark of a tree), and he advised his disciples to pray sitting along the seashore for their salvation. The Janardhana Swami temple deifies Lord Siva, Lord Krishna and Hanuman as important deities. Though non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the inner sanctum of the temple, others can see around the temple. Sivagiri is the final resting place of the great social reformer Sree Narayana Guru and lies on a hilltop 3 kilometers from Varkala at Sivagiri. A caste-ridden asymmetrical society Kerala was described by Swami Vivekananda as a “madhouse”.  It was Narayana Guru who himself belonged to the backward “Ezhava community” who tried effectively to bring about a change in such outdated thinking processes. His motto was “one caste”, “one religion” and “One god for entire mankind”. He has been deified and continues to be the symbol of Kerala’s struggle for social equality.

© Sanjai velayudhan

The author would like to thank you for reading through this article. Please do send your feedback on sanjai.velayudhan@gmail.com. 

About the Author

A behavioural trainer by education and a loyalty specialist by profession, Sanjai has PG qualifications in Training and performance management from CLMS, University of Leicester. Sanjai is a compulsive writer and has recently chosen article base to put his thoughts together. He also writes extensively on loyalty programs. To read them, please visit: http://www.itcinfotech.com/Loyalty-Solutions/Home.html. to know more about him simply google-”Sanjai Velayudhan”. Enough said.

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Consequences of a saddle that’s too wide?

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Are there any negative consequences of a saddle thats gullet is too wide?

A saddle that’s too narrow has too much pressure on the bars and causes pain to the horse’s shoulders. A saddle that’s too wide does not have excess shoulder pain. Instead the shoulder has no support so it does not get off their spine and/or withers. The saddle will make it difficult for the horse to bend and flex their back, can cause rub marks to the withers, and will cause pain. In some cases this can be partially improved by adding extra padding under the saddle such as thicker saddle pads. In a saddle that’s much too wide even extra padding won’t help.

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Fun And Fitness Through Sports – 4 Tips For Sportspeople

What do you think of when you hear the term “sports fitness”? Do you see football players on the field, soccer players scuffling over a ball, a volleyball team at the beach, or a tennis match? There is a tendency to understand the term to mean the sport itself, rather than a way to stay fit.

People engage in sports for specific recreation-related reasons like entertainment, competition, or self-satisfaction. Because sports involve physical activity, most fitness experts and health care professionals know that sports is one way to stay fit and healthy. Sports fitness, as opposed to “exercise” or “physical fitness,” however, involves developing a skill or ability. Sports fitness is an opportunity for personal growth.

Sports enthusiasts may be more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle (although some would question that assertion) because of the inherent discipline and physical demands. But sports fitness can also mean weight loss, better mobility, greater energy, and a host of the things we use to describe good health. Sports fitness is a character-building pursuit.

Sports do teach people to value their health. Without health, they couldn’t maintain the energy and vitality necessary to participate. Especially if they are in professional sports, their livelihood may depend on their fitness and health. Sports fitness is a lifestyle.

Let’s assume, for a minute, that you are a person who needs more exercise to get or stay physically fit and healthy. You have many options: gyms, health centers, home exercise. You can do aerobic exercise routines, undertake a weight training program, or spend hours on an exercise bike or treadmill. Those are all beneficial activities. But some of us find them boring. We won’t stick to them because we’re not having fun. Sports fitness is fun!

One way to get healthy and have fun at the same time is to pursue sports fitness. You can get your workout on the basketball court or baseball field. You can enter swimming competitions or run marathons. These exercise routines involve other people, interaction, and FUN! So, let’s say you’ve decided to get your exercise through sports fitness.

There are some things you should know about things you can do to assure sports fitness is a safe, healthy program for you:

1. Get a Lot of Fluids

We can go days, even months, without food. But we can’t live without frequent drinking water. It’s the most important nutrient we’ll ever consume. And when you’re engaged in sports, you perspire more, losing that precious liquid gold. In fact, if you lose too many fluids without replacing them, you could have very serious health problems. In the extreme, you could die.

So when you’re engaged in strenuous exercise, you should always drink water to replace what you’re losing through sweat. Some sports involve losing fluids so rapidly that it would not be possible to replace them with water alone. In fact, drinking too much plain water at once can lead to a toxic reaction (water intoxication) due to an unhealthy balance of electrolytes in the body. To avoid dehydration and water intoxication while playing sports, experts recommend sports drinks. They come in three categories.

Isotonic sports drinks contain a similar balance of water and other nutrients as in the human body, including 6-8% sugar. Hypertonic sports drinks contain less water and more sugar than the human body. Hypotonic sports drinks contain more water and less sugar than the human body. Most of the sports drinks on the market are isotonic.

No matter which you choose, sports drinks have two important ingredients you won’t find in plain water: carbohydrates and electrolytes. Carbohydrates help keep energy levels up, and a proper balance of electrolytes (made up of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and hydrogen carbonate) is essential to well-being. Drinking a lot of fluids is essential for sports fitness.

2. Eat more Fruits and Vegetables

The strenuous exercise involved in sports rapidly depletes the body of essential vitamins and minerals. Fruits and vegetables contain essential nutrients. When you’re engaged in sports fitness program, make it a habit every day to eat a dark green vegetable, a yellow or orange fruit or vegetable, a red fruit or vegetable, beans or nuts, and a citrus fruit like oranges. Sports fitness involves a healthy, balanced diet.

3. Protect your Bones

Obviously, people involved in sports fitness are at a higher risk of injuries, including broken bones. The more you can do to keep your bones strong, the better off you will be. Be sure your diet includes calcium sources like sardines, tofu, and dairy products, etc. You might also consider adding a calcium supplement to your daily routine. Not only will your bones withstand the bumps and crashes you get on the court or field, you’ll be getting a head start in fending off the dreaded osteoporosis.

4. Warm Up and Cool Down

You may strain a muscle or fall prey to another type of injury if you’re body isn’t loose and limber when you start playing any kind of rigorous sport. Like runners, stretching routines are a great way to get limber. And more active warm-ups get your heart rate going gradually.

After the game is over, don’t go straight to the clubhouse or bar. Do a few cool down exercises to gradually release tension and transition to less activity. You have fewer sore muscles and less tightness if you do. Sports fitness involves responsible preparation and follow-through.

Participating sports is a great way to get and stay physically fit and to have an active, interesting social life. Sports fitness allows you to meet more active people interested in health and fitness who can help you stay motivated and involved. The best thing about sports fitness is that you get a great workout while you’re having a great time. It’s the best of both worlds!

About the Author

Abhishek is a Health And Fitness expert and he has got some great Fitness Secrets up his sleeve! Download his FREE 111 Pages Ebook, “Complete Body Fitness” from his website http://www.Fitness-Magic.com/71/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

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Grilled Coffee Flavored Barbecue Pork Ribs Meal That is Suitable for Diabetics

Looking for a different twist on barbecue?  Try these coffee-flavored barbecue ribs.  Why not mix two of our favorite things, coffee and barbecue ribs, into one?  Give these ribs a try and let your family and friends guess at your secret ingredient.  Add cheesy mixed vegetable casserole and strawberry salad for a complete meal.

GRILLED COFFEE-FLAVORED BBQ RIBS

2 to 3 lbs pork ribs

Salt and Pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

1/4 cup catsup

3 tbsp vinegar

2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup water

2 tsp. strong instant coffee

2 tbsp Splenda

Salt and pepper ribs.  Combine remaining ingredients and brush on both sides of ribs.  Grill for 10 to 15 minutes, then begin brushing ribs frequently with sauce until they are done.

CHEESY MIXED VEGETABLE CASSEROLE

1 (16 oz) pkg frozen broccoli, cauliflower, carrots blend

1 (4 oz) can pimiento, drained

1 can golden mushroom soup

1/3 cup sour cream

1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

1 small can French-fried onions

1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a large casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.  In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetables, 1/2 the pimiento, soup, sour cream, pepper, 1/2 the French-fried onions and 1/2 the cheese; mix well.  Spoon mixture into the prepared casserole dish.  Bake 20 minutes.  Sprinkle remaining French-fried onions and cheese over the top of the casserole.  Bake another 5 minutes.  Remove casserole from the oven.  Sprinkle remaining pimiento over the top.  Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

 

STRAWBERRY SALAD

2 small or 1 large pkg sugar-free strawberry gelatin

1 cup boiling water

2 pkgs (10 oz each) frozen sugar-free strawberries

1 – 8 oz can crushed pineapple in its own juice, drained

2-3 med/large bananas, mashed

1 1/2 cups sour cream

Dissolve gelatin in boiling water.  Add berries and allow to cool.  Add pineapple and bananas; mix well.  Pour 1/2 of mixture into a 12x9x2 inch pan and chill until set.  Leave remaining mixture at room temperature.  Spread sour cream over first layer once it is set, covering entire surface all the way to the edges.  Spoon remaining gelatin over the sour cream.  Chill until firm.  This is a salad that can be made a day ahead of time when you are busy.

Enjoy!

 

 

 

About the Author

For more of Linda’s recipes and writings, visit her website at http://diabeticenjoyingfood.squarespace.com