2010 Gifts for Horse Lovers

I loved the intricate designs of the bracelets and necklaces made by Argentinian designer and veterinarian Jorge Iglesias. Iglesias began playing around with horseshoe nail art since his student days. The complete line includes items for men such as cufflinks and key rings, items for the home such as wine bottle toppers and napkins holders, and of course chokers, rings and earrings. The jewellery is made of pewter and silver.

 There are equestrian dinner theatre productions in many cities across North America. I recently enjoyed a  Medieval Times performance in Toronto.  You can see this pageantry of knights, jousting and royal battles in Buena Park, Lyndhurst, Dallas, Toronto, Chicago, Orlando,  Baltimore/Washington, D.C. and Myrtle Beach. Cavalia travels from city to city. Upcoming show dates are on their website. Arabian Nights in Orlando, Florida features fourteen breeds of horse in what is billed as the largest indoor equestrian stage. Details are on their website. Nobel Horse Theatres Chicago stages well known plays on horseback, and The Dancing Horses in Wisconsin is billed as a must see. Many offer group ticket rates and promotional rates.

Never a knight but always the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley enjoyed horseback riding on Rising Sun, a palomino named for his favorite song. Breyer has released the model to commemorate Presley's favorite horses.

For Christmas 2010 Beyer offers a number of collectibles, including their Holiday horse, Jewel, calendars, tree ornaments and apparel and gift sets .

The word 'display' doesn't really do this decorative artwork justice. While a wall full of ribbons is very impressive, some people find they end up piling them in boxes in the back of a closet. BarnSmart has a solution to keep your ribbons on display as stuffed animals, cushions or quilts that can be used as wall hangings. Each creation is completley unique. Their quilt gallery features work they've done for past clients.

Saddle Packs or bags are great for the trail rider. Choose from lightweight, color synthetics or more traditional leathers. Bags that hook over the saddle horn keep your GPS and cellphone handy, while larger bags are roomy enough for your slicker, lunch and anything else you need to carry.

A full length riding slicker is just thing to wear on those days when the weather would otherwise be too wet to ride. I have some good memories of trotting my horse down the trail in a steady rain, warm and snug under an old RCMP slicker. The real bonus was that the rain kept everyone else indoors, so I had the trails all to myself. While my slicker then was a sedate black and a bit heavy, new slickers come in lightweight breathable fabrics in a rainbow of colors. I find I don't just use mine for riding, but anytime I have to be out in wet weather. Some come with adjustable leg straps, so the slicker doesn't blow around and leave your legs exposed. Be sure to accustom your horse to the slicker before you get on.

I'm always excited to receive books to review and my hands down favorite this past year was Gallop to Freedom: Training Horses with the Founding Stars of Cavalia. This is a book that will inspire and increase the understanding of what the horse/human bond can be. I loved the beautiful photographs that make this not only a good read, but lovely to leaf through as well. No mattter what level experience the horse lover in your life might be, this book will be enjoyable.

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Say thank you to your support team with plaques or rosettes.  A local tack shop sold cool rosettes that were printed with 'Best Show Dad, Best Groom and other 'bests'. If you've got a wall full of horse show ribbons and a mantle filled with trophies you probably didn't get them all alone. Show your love and appreciation by handing out your own awards to those who've helped you out.

Although the Mechanical Core Muscle Trainer doesn't look like a piece of furniture you'd want in your home, it certainly looks more interesting than a chair. This low impact exerciser promises to strengthen your core muscles: abs, thighs and back. There are three programs and nine speeds. The Mechanical Core Muscle Trainer  also provides a gentle areobic workout. While not being marketed specifically for equestrians, some reviews suggest it will give you the same exercise as an easy horseback ride.