"The Diva" (aka Diva, Dee) is my '97 Appendix QH mare. Murry was used as partial trade for this girl after I decided to find myself a HUS prospect. I came across her quite quickly with the help of my coach, just weeks after deciding to sell my former mare and before my search for possible prospects even begun! She had been in Ontario for approx. 3 months, being shipped out here from Nova Scotia from Bar Ditch Farms where her sire, originally from Ontario, Leo War Fleet (by Leo Helios by War Leo), still lives at 30+ years. Being an impulse buyer, despite her skinny frame, ratty coat and wormy appearance, her doll-like, innocent look and sweepy, flat kneed movement sold her to me. There's was nothing to discuss, I had to have her. A month later, the deal was made and Dee came home with me in February 2000.
That first year was spent getting to know each other and building our trust. She had roughly only 30+ days of professional training when she came to me as a late 2 yr.old and with help from my coach and her husband, her training progressed and soon we were hitting the local shows with great results. Her quiet disposition hasn't changed since the day I laid eyes on her despite the changed environment, added weight and conditioning. She's very intelligent, honest and willing which makes her a joy to work with. She also has a sensitive side that requires a gentle hand and voice. And some lovin? She's all for it! Unfortunately, her digestive tract is also known for its sensitivity. Since '00, she's had 3 colic cases which were both resolved with banamine and mineral oil. Yes, she still remains unpredictable at times (ugh, females!) and yes, still requires an "escort" on trails just to have someone to "chat" with as I prefer to see it as. And horseshows, she loves 'em! She loves nothing more than to be surrounded by friends, the closer, the better! She totally digs the crowded warm-up pens, trailer rides and "chatting" at the trailer.
2003: I've opted not to breed Dee this year after a lot of thinking and have opted for next year. As far as showing goes, she's had roughly 8 months off while I've been at college and looking far from the fit showhorse she once was. Depending on my hours at work, I plan on showing locals and QH Shows with her on weekends and perhaps heading to a few QH Shows in Ottawa with the barn later in the summer. I can't wait to get her jumping again and back in shape. Stay tuned...
Pictures
The Girl's Album...from an "ugly" duckling to a swan
The Show Horse...show pictures from '01
Leo War Fleet...her sire
Pedigree...4 generation
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