Milliron Monday: The Sound of Silence 5 27 19

Abbott "Pete" Smith, D.V.M.

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

The above Photo is of Dr. Smith's Milliron sawmill courtesy Joy Miller-Upton

When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. 

When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence. 

Ansel Adams 

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Pete Smith, D.V.M., and  Milliron: Abbott “Pete” Smith, D.V.M. The Biography (Monday Creek Publishing 2017). A graduate of Colorado State University and a well-known veterinarian in southeast Ohio, Dr. Smith continues to motivate and inspire. 

A week ago today, local journalist and photographer, Joy Miller-Upton, came for a visit. I was happy to see Joy. She took over 100 photographs of the Milliron book launch on June 16, 2017 at the former Milliron Clinic (to see all of the photos visit Milliron's facebook page). Now, almost two years later, I have the opportunity to reflect back at the event and the many Dr. Smith fans, friends, and clients who attended. It was an amazing tribute to Dr. Smith. During the event, people were able to tour Milliron Clinic, the stables, sawmill, barns, and surrounding area. They were able to see parts of Dr. Smith's work and hobbies that they would otherwise miss. 

Joy's photos capture a moment in time that was (for every writer) a lifetime event. It was bittersweet; everyone was happy to read about Dr. Smith and his life, but walking through the halls of the Clinic only brought back memories. 

After all this time, Dr. Smith's trilogy is still in demand and those who missed the event are learning about Dr. Smith and his legacy. Looking at all of Joy's photos, I think about Dr. Smith and his impact on the Ohio Valley. Through great struggles, he dreamed of his own veterinary clinic, his own farm and sawmill. His dreams. His life. And he would tell us that life is fleeting and that anything we dream of doing - do it now. Do it now. 

The clinic, stables, sawmill, and surrounding buildings are silent. Weeds grow where ideas sprouted. Dust settles where miracles happened. The essence of forgotten animals frequent the examination rooms, surgery tables, and stables. Playful barking resounds somewhere in the kennels. Dr. Smith's rumbling laughter echoes through the hallways. You can hear it. The sound of silence.

Connect with Gina

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.

Milliron Monday: Prince Valiant 5 20 19

Abbott "Pete" Smith, D.V.M.

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

You cannot give me my soul and take away my heart.

Prince Valiant 

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Pete Smith, D.V.M., and  Milliron: Abbott “Pete” Smith, D.V.M. The Biography (Monday Creek Publishing 2017). A graduate of Colorado State University and a well-known veterinarian in southeast Ohio, Dr. Smith continues to motivate and inspire. 

Reading the Sunday Comics is an American tradition. Full color and vibrant, we all have our favorite comic strip. Dr. Smith's favorite was Prince Valiant, an ongoing story from King Author's realm. Written and illustrated by American icon Hal Foster, Valiant is the epitome of chivalry. The dialogue is just enough to keep you intrigued from Sunday to Sunday. Sometimes just one panel, the key is to remember where the storyline ends the Sunday before.

In 8 Things You Might Not Know About Prince Valiant (by Jake Rossen), we learn that Prince Valiant may not be a comic strip at all. Rossen writes, "... leading Valiant historian, author Brian Kane, declared it a 'massive illustrated novel presented in a comic art-like style.'" 

With all the sword wielding, horse drama, princes, princess, detailed imagery, fanciful scenarios, and medieval adventure, Dr. Smith rarely missed the Sunday funnies to see what (who or how) Prince Valiant was up to. The panels, meticulously illustrated with fine detail, engage the reader from week to week.

My Dad, who was a client and friend to Dr. Smith, enjoys reading the Sunday funnies, too. He was a fan of Prince Valiant until our hometown newspaper, The Athens Messenger, stopped running the strip. Now my Dad reads The Phantom, which is just as entertaining - including drama, weapons, damsels, bad guys and good guys. (By the way, if you see my Dad today, wish him a Happy Birthday!). See you in the funnie papers...

He told them I was valiant, and that became my name.

Connect with Gina

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom 5 19 19

Monday Creek Publishing

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom

mondaycreekpublishing.com

Follow us on fb Monday Creek Publishing

Monday Creek Publishing

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom

mondaycreekpublishing.com

Follow us on fb Monday Creek Publishing

Two Horses, You and Me

Everyone is fighting some kind of battle. Here is a true story from a friend in upper East Tennessee. Think about it today. Tell it to your children and grandchildren as a bedtime story.

Two Horses, You and Me

Just up the road from my home is a field, with two horses in it.  From a distance, each looks like every other horse. But if you stop your car or are walking by, you will notice something quite amazing.

Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down but has made a good home for him. This alone is amazing. 

If nearby and listening, you will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to her halter is a small bell. 

It lets her blind friend know where she is so he can follow her. As you stand and watch these two friends, you'll see how she is always checking on him and that he will listen for her bell and then slowly walk to where she is, trusting that she will not lead him astray. When she returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, she stops occasionally and looks back, making sure her friend isn't too far behind to hear the bell.

Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges. He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need. 

Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by the little ringing bell of those who God places in our lives. Other times we are the Guide horse, helping others see. Good friends are like this...You don't always see them, but you know they are always there. 

Please listen for my bell and I'll listen for yours. 

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Much love to everyone from the beautiful East Tennessee mountains,

Larry

NOTE: This letter is sent to anyone interested in receiving these inspirational notes. There is no charge and you are encouraged to forward these to anyone you think would benefit from reading them. If you would like to receive them direct, just send an email to me at larryperry@att.net and request to be added to the Letters from Larry list.

Throw Your Heart Over (Stonegate Series Book 3) by Tudor Robins

Throw Your Heart Over

(Stonegate Series Book 3) Kindle Edition

by Tudor Robins

Looks can be deceiving.

Take Ellie – pretty, athletic, starting university on a scholarship, and serving as her sister’s bridesmaid.

Except … Ellie’s sister is a bridezilla, her bridesmaid’s dress is hideous, her career as a competitive ringette player is over, she’s been dumped by her boyfriend, and she still can’t shake the deep-seated insecurity leftover from her severe and painful acne.

As best-friend Em leaves town for university, she encourages Ellie to learn to ride on Em’s trusty horse, Lucas.

Can Ellie find the courage to embrace a new sport, new friends, a new love, and a new image of herself?

Biography

Tudor Robins is an Ottawa-based young adult author whose first novel, Objects in Mirror, was named a Best Book for Kids and Teens by the Canadian Children's Book Centre. Tudor loves reading, writing, and horseback riding, as well as spending time on Wolfe Island with her husband and two sons. Appaloosa Summer is Tudor's second novel.

Read Tudor's Riding & Writing Interview here!

Connect with Tudor Amazon Author Page

http://tudorrobins.ca/

The Forgotten Rose by Mary Whalen

New!

A heartfelt tale of planting, growing and blooming. Sincere and inspiring, follow along as the author tells the life of a rose, beginning in the Garden of Eden, reseeding throughout history, finally to modern times where the rose continues to represent love and beauty. The Forgotten Rose will become one of your favorite short stories.

Write & Day: We Live to Tell Your Story

Write &Day: We Live to Tell Your Story. What happens when a grammar geek and a creative storyteller join forces? Besides having ongoing heated debates about which book genres are the best, these two innovative souls put their heads together and alas, Write & Day was born. You might have noticed, but we’re also major pun aficionados. Like night and day, we are complete opposites in every sense of the word, yet we also complement each other; where one is weak, the other is strong, and vice versa. So, what are we all about, anyways? Simply put: we love what we do. Even more so, we love helping others transform their visions into realities. Whether we’re writing web content for a new brand, composing monthly blogs for your business, or helping you write your first book, we’ve got you covered. From the idea on a post-it note to the final, finished product, we walk with our clients every step of the way. Using a hands-on, results-oriented approach, we believe in the beauty of collaboration, always working one-on-one with our clients. So many companies and individuals have such grand ideas, yet their delivery ultimately falls short time and time again. That’s where we come in. We bring your vision to life, one sentence at a time. Yesi, our Chief Creative Officer, specializes in curating diverse and visual storytelling with an eclectic twist. The head of our marketing and creative department, Yesi also works with other visionaries to illustrate the most dazzling look for their brand. When it comes to writing, she takes her creativity to a whole new level, integrating just the right touch of love and care in any project. This girl knows how to work her magic. She can take the most mundane project and somehow transform it to be the most fun and enjoyable piece in no time. Jac, Write & Day’s Editor-In-Chief, is a proudly devoted comma queen. Whether she’s reading her latest grab from the library or reviewing content before publication, she always has an eye out for flaws. The woman has no shame in rereading a manuscript or text over and over again until she’s 157% sure that it’s absolutely exemplary. She believes that in order for a brand or individual to be taken seriously, their content needs to be not only strong and engaging, but mistake-free. You name it—spelling blunders, punctuation errors or grammar mishaps, she’ll find it, and she’ll fix it—with pride and joy. Together, our team can tackle any writing challenge and transcend it with grace. What makes us stand out is our transparency and flexibility when working with clients. We’re upfront and candid; we work with you, no matter what. As frequent passengers on the struggle bus, we get it—life is full of unpredictable surprises. It’s how one handles the situation that really matters. Let us guide you! Everyone has a story to tell that can impact the world, big or small. With the right strategy and writing that comes straight from the heart, your story will be displayed in the best light possible—always shining your way.  Jacqueline Lee-Garcia
Owner | Editor-In-Chief
Write & Day LLC
p:	786-309-7613  m: 786-322-0050
a:	Miami, FL
w:	WriteandDay.com  e: Jacqueline@WriteandDay.com

Milliron Monday: Into the Castle 5 13 19

Abbott "Pete" Smith, D.V.M.

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Of course he has a knife, he always has a knife, we all have knives! It's 1183 and we're barbarians! How clear we make it. Oh, my piglets, we are the origins of war: not history's forces, nor the times, nor justice, nor the lack of it, nor causes, nor religions, nor ideas, nor kinds of government, nor any other thing. We are the killers. We breed wars. We carry it like syphilis inside. Dead bodies rot in field and stream because the living ones are rotten. For the love of God, can't we love one another just a little - that's how peace begins. We have so much to love each other for. We have such possibilities, my children. We could change the world.

The Lion in Winter: Eleanor of Aquitaine to her husband

 Henry II of England, a meeting on Christmas Eve 

to discuss the future of the throne. 

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Pete Smith, D.V.M., and  Milliron: Abbott “Pete” Smith, D.V.M. The Biography (Monday Creek Publishing 2017). A graduate of Colorado State University and a well-known veterinarian in southeast Ohio, Dr. Smith continues to motivate and inspire. 

Come into the castle. The year is 1183 and Henry II (Peter O'Toole) is sitting by his fireplace, contemplating the future of his kingdom.  Standing stoic by Henry's chair is his estranged wife Eleanor (Katharine Hepburn). Eleanor, imprisoned, is free to celebrate Christmas in the medieval chateau.  They are in their twilight years now, braving winter after winter, remembering their three sons, discussing Henry's mistress, and who to throw in prison - or not. They are historical figures in a fictional movie, winning Academy Awards and Golden Globes. The real Henry II and Eleanor would be entertained. 

The Lion in Winter was one of Dr. Smith's favorite movies. Jerry Hartley, a long time client and friend, often tells of Dr. Smith's infatuation with the intense drama, dynamic actors, and emotional plot of the movie. Jerry says, "Pete would come to my house and go right to the TV, put the movie into the VCR, and become mesmerized. This was back in the late 70's. It was a distraction from farm calls and his practice." 

I don't know which character Dr. Smith was drawn to more - Eleanor or Henry. Eleanor, with her distinguished attitude, trying to save the lives of her sons; Henry, arrogant and proud, giving no thought to loyalty or integrity. There is empathy for Eleanor who is sent back to her prison at the end of the movie, while Henry is somehow intriguing and likeable as he guides Eleanor back to her cell. Possibly, Dr. Smith enjoyed being swept away into a time where he may once have lived (if you believe in that sort of thing), where men rode horses all day and sat by the fireside all night. 

Dr. Smith enjoyed sitting by his own fireside. His captain's chair by the fire has a sheepskin overlay; a sheepskin from his own sheep (another story). This is where he ate lunch, played chess, read his favorite books, prayed, and planned his days. Overseeing his own kingdom, Milliron, Dr. Smith lived life on his own terms; a purposed-filled life in the Ohio valley that he loved, occasionally taking the time to watch The Lion in Winter.

Connect with Gina

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.

A Cultured Girl by Terri Mash

New!

From Ohio, USA, Terri Mash finds joy living in the rural hills of southeastern Ohio. Sitting on her front porch, Terri writes of her family, friends, horses, dogs, and more. She finds quiet time by the creek and under the pine canopy, nestled in the needles, where she remembers her past as she plans her future. A heartfelt poet and illustrator, Terri invites you into the mind of A Cultured Girl.

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom 5 11 19

Monday Creek Publishing

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom

mondaycreekpublishing.com

Follow us on fb Monday Creek Publishing

Monday Creek Publishing

Quotes, Quips, and Wisdom

mondaycreekpublishing.com

Follow us on fb Monday Creek Publishing

Florida Equine Athlete

FLORIDA EQUINE ATHLETE

HORSES, ROPING, BARREL RACING EQUINE MAGAZINE

STALLION RUNWAY ADVERTISING

AND MORE!

Now Available in Paperback!

Every Month

From

Amazon.com

www.floridaequineathlete.com

     

See Gina’s Archived FEA Articles here!

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Milliron Monday: Coming Home 5 6 19

Abbott "Pete" Smith, D.V.M.

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Photo: Jody and Mac 2019

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Pete Smith, D.V.M., and  Milliron: Abbott “Pete” Smith, D.V.M. The Biography (Monday Creek Publishing 2017). A graduate of Colorado State University and a well-known veterinarian in southeast Ohio, Dr. Smith continues to motivate and inspire. 

Jody Smith is all about horses. She loves horses. Pete and Jody always stabled horses. Like Pete, Jody began riding at a young age and continues to pass her horsewoman expertise onto others. I am especially grateful for Jody's horsey wisdom. 

In 2012, I lost my prize Bashkir Curly gelding to cushing's disease. He was 26 and had a good life (I tear up thinking about it). My beloved gelding gone, I was left with my beautiful paint Quarter mare, Zubedia (aka Zubie). 

At the time, Jody was stabling and riding a registered Quarter Horse, Charming N Arrogant, aka barn name Mac (in the above photo). Jody and Mac rode through the Milliron Farm woods for several years. Jody, looking to downsize her menagerie of animals, suggested I take Mac since my gelding had crossed the Rainbow Bridge, and my mare needed a stablemate. I was reluctant at first; I was still grieving the loss of my gelding. 

Six months later, on a cold December day, Mac came to live at my stable on a trial basis (ha... once you've connected with a horse, the trial is over and they belong to you - besides, you usually know when a horse belongs to you, or not). Mac, a dapple grey with a good disposition and a heart of gold, was mine. Mac and Zubie immediately became the "couple" and forever friends. 

In March of this year, my horse trainer, Devin, the proprietor of Painted Lady Ranch, took Zubie to her ranch to be used as a therapy horse, helping those who suffer PTSD, abuse, or other forms of stress. As we know, horses are good at helping others through "stuff" and Zubie is a compassionate mare, good with people. 

With Zubie away on business, Mac settled after she was gone a few days. He has never stopped looking for her -  staring into the far pasture, listening for her steps, looking at me with wild eyes saying, "Where's Zubie?" 

In the meantime, Jody tells me in no uncertain terms that it was wrong to send Zubie away, and that Mac needs his stablemate. And it's true - horses are herd animals, depending upon each other for nurturing and companionship. 

Last Saturday, I traveled the 45 minute drive to Devin's ranch. Zubie was having fun with the other horses in her pasture - a nice roan gelding and two adorable ponies - Pineapple and Peaches. Peaches definitely has the upper hand in the group, even overpowering Zubie. Ponies can be that way - little but mighty. I'm not sure how Zubie really feels about Peaches, I just know they weren't chumming or nuzzling (ha). Devin agrees as Zubie tells me it's time to come home. 

I will always be grateful to Devin for the opportunities she provides to grow as a horse owner. Sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone and letting go of the things we think we need is empowering, although difficult. In this case, it was good for Zubie to be a part of someone else's world, if just for a short while. She helped someone create a good memory about being with horses. 

Jody and Mac don't know it, but Zubie is coming home this morning at 11 am. I'm excited to see Mac happy again. I know Jody will be happy, too. 

Connect with Gina

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.