Tag Archives: Australia

JacknKats Place

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Yep, so it’s been awfully quite in Jack n Kat’s world what with COVID and all.

This past couple of weeks (and another to come) we should have been in the United States for Comin’ Atcha, Talledaga Speedway, Alabama and more, then that got cancelled with not being able to leave the country.

So we were to go to Chisholm Trail here, then that got cancelled.

I was going to cancel my leave but tired me having still worked during all the so called lockdown’s etc I was ready for a break. And hey! After the past six years of not having to work and then a year of part time – full time work has been an eye opener again!! 🤣🤣

So….I decide to keep two of my weeks leave and have a break with Jack. Let’s get some outdoor stuff done we say! Sure! Then thankfully we got quotes for some work to be done instead of assuming our very active and young brains could make our older and in Jack’s case much older body could keep up with our intentions.

Suffice to say it was still a very busy two weeks as I take every moment this evening of my last break for a very long time and head back to work tomorrow.

So what did we achieve?

Well it started with nights of painting the mural ready for the pool backdrop. 18ft long and 4ft high. Meh, did I bite off more than I could chew? Procrastination was taking hold about small difficult sections. Hence the horse and rider being the very last 6” x 6” done. He is my most favorite piece now!!

My interpretation of Monument Valley

So the rest was organizing gardens and getting them set for ‘Pandora’ the garden fairy to arrive and work her magic revamping, planting and guiding me to be a good green thumb!

We worked our butts off moving plants, shoveling dirt configuring plantings, getting it just so for future garden happiness in a minimalistic care style for me.

The tidying up process prior to gardening and paving guys coming in. Ie: that was NOT Jack and I!

The after effects from Pandora’s magic! Oh and Scottie and Ian the paving guys. 🤣

The after effects, including painting of fences I might add and new bamboo screening.

So now it’s time to tidy, reinstall pool fence (‘cause you know I’m gonna change that up to glass later!) for safety and regulation, seal pavers, install mural and a bit more mood lighting before return to work.

What else got done during the staycation? Well a bit of shooting, hanging with friends, visit to IKEA to start the next renovation, hung a couple new blinds in newly painted window frames, checking and waiting on bar install, oh did I tell you I finished the reupholster of the bar stools? Did that, bit of sewing bit of crafting and just downright enjoying being home with the man. 😉

Hugs y’all!

Kat xo

Happy New Year!

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Wishing all our friends and family a very Happy New Year!

Where ever you are in the world we wish you peace, happiness and good health.

May 2020 be your best year yet for whatever you have planned.

Shoot well cowboys and cowgirls – always stay humble and kind. (Thank you Tim McGraw, great song)

Kat and Jack xoxo

Merry Christmas

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Merry Christmas to you

Happy Holidays too,

Or Happy Hanukkah maybe

Santa’s been under the tree.

Though gifts, it’s much more

It’s beliefs that’s for sure.

Give thanks and love your own way,

Enjoy family and friends on this day.

Be merry and eat

Relax, stay off your feet.

From our house to yours

From across the shores,

We wish you happiness and health

And some New Year wealth.

May your year have been full of adventure and the year ahead be even better!

Much love

Jack n Kat xo

Chisholm Trail 2019 Part 2

Posted on by kathousekelli70

We made it up to Millmerran and the range just outside of town near Captains Mountain. It is hot, dry and dusty. Might I add – the flies are horrendous!! Sticky little buggers!

After unpacking and setting up in the cabins the week was ready to start!

Tuesday saw a few of us get to helping in the office and handing out shooters packs to other competitors. Having fun catching up with one and all.

The ‘Cowgirls & Calibre’s’ shooting clinic with Kathouse Kelli, Pearl Starr and Clancy saw 13 lovely ladies come for some tips and transitions. All walked away with some more knowledge, even our more mature and experienced ladies. Unfortunately an afternoon thunderstorm hit which didn’t allow for any actual shooting critique to be carried out.

From Left: Betsy Wesson, Pistol Packin’ Pixie, Lunateak, Arizona Pearl, Kathouse Kelli, Pearl Starr, Clancy, Little Shot, Whiskey Lil, Sally Skull, Miss Pinky
In Front: Stitch Em Up, Lil Backfire
(not in photo – Alvira Sullivan Earp, Mrs H, Guns n Roses)

Wednesday headed in to the Pat Garrett match. Jack shot first and with an immediate issue with ammo did not make for a great first stage. I was offered to shoot a Single Shot rifle so changed categories and shot for the very first time with a Modern Single Shot. Jack acquired some ammunition that would work for our 38-55 and carried on.

By this stage there has been nightly antics, whip cracking and attempts at karaoke at “Redneck Central Y’All”

Thursday rolled around and now it gets to the serious stuff. It begins with a very early start and Opening Ceremonies with the first four main match stages to follow. The afternoon is for Hannibal Challenge, speed events and Saloon night – oh wait, maybe that was Wednesday night.

Friday and we are in to the second lot of 4 stages. The redneck sista’s made an appearance around camp with Mary-Lou June taking out the 1st place in Cowboy Fastdraw whilst Mary-Lou July held her plaits back! Funny girls.

  • Mary-Lou June and Mary-Lou July
    Doing it for Rednecks around the world.

Bingo was enjoyed that evening before retiring for the final four on Saturday.

The final four are done and dusted come Saturday afternoon. As a new Lady Gunfighter I had way too many misses than I cared for but danged if didn’t have a hell of a lot of fun doing it! Jack had a pretty good run at it albeit a little bit disappointed at times.

With that being said when Saturday evening rolled around to the banquet we were both pleasantly surprised to be in the Top 16 Mens and Top 8 Ladies. Congratulations to all!!

  • Us
  • Pearl Starr and Charlie Wagon
  • Charlie Wagon hamming it up with Jack.
  • Alvira Sullivan Earp and Virgil Earp
    Buckles for recognition of ‘Chisholm Trail’ establishment.

The L.O.C.A.S. Cowgirl of Honor awards were announced with Meggs in 3rd, Pearl Starr 2nd and our seasoned lady of the sport Mrs H in 1st place for 2019. Congratulations ladies for all your fabulous efforts throughout the years.

The Costume Contest ensued with a good number of entries.

  • Working Cowgirl and Working Cowboy
    Whiskey Lil & Marlboro Man
  • Best Dressed Saloon Girl
    Whiskey Rae
  • Best Dressed Juniors
    Just Nicked It & KT
  • Best Dressed Mens
    1st Duke Canon, 2nd (L) Joe Kidd,
    3rd (R) Deadwood
  • Best Dressed Ladies
    1st Mumma Err, 2nd (L) Luck E Shot,
    3rd (R) Kitty Kaos
  • 3rd Best Dressed Couple
    Pistol Packin’ Pixie & Rock Hard Willie
  • 2nd Best Dressed Couple
    Two Gun Kate & Woodrow Call
  • 1st Best Dressed Couple
    The Reverend & Betsy Wesson

Sunday morning and its time for the shootout!

Congratulations to the Top 16 Men – Hoss Rustler, R C Shot, Charlie Wagon, Trapper, Drop Bear, Bat Masterson, Waco Kid, Trooper (who had already left), Rooquero, Jackaroo, Mad Dog Tannen, John Slocum, Marshall Jack Malone, Reckless Kelly, Haymaker, Lightning Jack Kane and Deslaredo (1st alternate).

For the Ladies Top 8 – Clancy, Pearl Starr, Miss Chevious, Lil Backfire, Kathouse Kelli, Alvira Sullivan Earp (unable to participate), Sister Sarah Carnegie, Arizona Pearl (didn’t shoot), Lucky Strike Lass (1st alternate), KT (3rd alternate).

Congratulations to Pearl Starr and R C Shot for taking top honors for the shootout!

This years 2019 Chisholm Trail SASS Regional champions and SSAA Australian Open were Clancy for overall Ladies and Hoss Rustler for Mens. Outstanding effort, both of you a huge congratulations.

Jack finished 1st in Elder Statesman and 11th overall. Congrats to 2nd place, John Slocum and 3rd Rooster Cockburn.

I finished 2nd in Speed Rifle and Shotgun. Placed 1st in Pat Garrett Ladies Modern Single Shot (thanks Allie for the loan! xo) and 1st in Lady Gunfighter. Congratulations to my fellow Lady Gunfighter, Sister Sarah Carnegie.

Happy Trails to all cowboys and cowgirls, until we meet again.

Kat xo

Chisholm Trail 2019 Part 1

Posted on by kathousekelli70

While I sit here in the passenger seat and prepare for the trip to Millmerran. Oh and yes, I actually have time to do a blog! Who’d of thought!!?? 🤣🤣

It’s the time of year where cowboys and cowgirls gather for a week’s worth of fun at the Chisholm Trail Australian SASS Regionals.

As usual we are loaded to the hilt and ready to play!

Jack got a tow at put on and cracked on with making a parcel carrier for the gun cart. Thank goodness he did 😳

Anyway, not sure on reception out at the range and I imagine it won’t be any different to previous years – intermittent at best.

If you’re headed to a match, shoot straight! If you ain’t, then have a sensational week. Oh and be kind to your Mother. Hee hee

Kat xo

Everything’s ‘normal’

Posted on by kathousekelli70

As normal as it could be haa haa, whilst I sit eating ‘burnt offerings’ for my dinner before I go to work this afternoon.

Yes, burnt schnitty it is!

I’m like a bower bird today flitting from one shiny object to the next. (Jacks background comment- ‘stop doing other things while you are trying to cook!’)

Jacks been playing with his car, working things out in it. I picked up my embroidery machine and put the other two in for their service.

There is still some ironing left to be done but otherwise I’m almost ready to rock and roll it and get to some cutting out for the next projects!

It’s Day 2 of the push-up challenge for Headspace and I’m over halfway with today’s pushups. 155 completed yesterday and on my way to the final 89 left to be done for the 177 today!

The weather is clearing from much rain to glorious days in the low 20’s (71-73f), who said it was winter here? Think we missed it! 😂😂

Anyway, we hope you are having a sensational day no matter where you are in the world.

Keep smiling!

Kat xo

The Law West of The Pecos

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Well actually we are headed NW, passing Villanueva, El Pueblo, San Miguel, crossing the Pecos River a couple of times.

The landscape is once again changing, with hidden ranch’s amongst a very green landscape and red rock cliffs.

With Clancy in tow, we are headed for Manitou Springs. Others have headed for Deadwood, the Turquoise Trail or back to Australia today.

Our first stop would take us into Las Vegas, NM where a brief trip into the Rough Riders Antiques store saw Clancy buy a gorgeous silver barrette and my score was a nickel silver Mexican hat pin that simply was just too unique to pass up.

  • Harvey House items!
    I resisted this year.
  • Clancy’s new hair barrette. Handcrafted silver.
  • The ceiling inside the antique store.
  • The mexican hat pin that just had to come home with me.

We found that the Castenada Hotel is now open with 7 rooms and the bar for afternoon drinks. The ceiling, floors, windows are still original and yet there is still a lot of work to be done in getting the rest of the Hotel open. I look forward to a future visit to see her in all her glory!

Oh, and my fascination with the Castenada? She was the first Fred Harvey track-side hotel built in East Las Vegas that fed and watered passengers who journeyed the Santa Fe railway routes. When it opened in 1899 Teddy Roosevelt held a reunion of his Rough Riders here. The Rough Riders Museum just up the street is closed Monday’s but we did get to visit it last year.

As per the brochure (and having read the Harvey Girls book) Fred Harvey civilised the west. He developed and ran all the hotels and restaurants of the Santa Fe Railway, eventually controlling a hospitality empire that spanned the continent. He introduced linen, silverware, China, crystal and impeccable service to railroad travel.

We made a stop at Charlie’s Spic n Span Bakery – not for cream puff’s! – but a donut or key lime selection and coffee. We got a view of the mural whilst there. The mural is a documentary of South West and American History. Spanning the decades of time, it was created by some 300 students and additional community members.

We took a short trip past gorgeous Victorian houses and out to Montezuma Castle. Now and International school for students you can not visit the castle as its student use only now. It is truly magnificent in its size and presence set atop the hill in a secluded section of Montezuma.

We left New Mexico over the Raton Pass at a mere 7834ft and into Colorado. We are now in Manitou Springs.

As evening sets on this tiny town of Victorian charm, pubs, and shops, we enjoyed a couple of margarita’s and some dinner before retiring for an early night.

  • Clancy and I enjoying a margarita together, having a sip on behalf of Ruby and Pearl! Lol!

Some sight seeing tomorrow before getting into Cheyenne for the duration of the week!

Kat xo

End of Trail – Part 2

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Its now Thursday night and should be catching some zz’s as tomorrow we have the early start!

However, let me quickly catch you up.

Yesterday, Wednesday – Started out the morning with the Doily Gang Clinic, instructors this year, Shamrock Sadie, Lefty Jo, Honey B Quick, Iron Maiden, Sassy Dancer, Cooncan and myself Kathouse Kelli.

Was a great clinic, we had 2 shooters each to offer transition tips for pistols and more with long guns as well. Shot a couple of stages for critiquing and all in all, think they were all pretty happy to say the least when we were done. Thank you ladies for coming and glad we can offer something back to the sport for all.

Yeehaa ladies! Hope you are having great match’s!

From there it was grab some pictures of stages ready for main match. Go take a few runs at speed events. Pearl Starr and I then spent a couple hours in the LOCAS tent and in the down time helped Shamrock Sadie with a ‘craft task’ for later in the week.

Open ceremonies were held late in the afternoon. Alvira Sullivan Earp carried the flag for Australia! Legendary Lawman for Canada. Bloody Mary for Denmark. Chrissy Carson for Netherlands. The Kiwi Kid for New Zealand and in his uniform for the United States of America, Cash Cassidy.

With the anthem sung, the Wild Bunch, Match Directors, 111 first time attendees recognised it was on to the announcement of new Regulators. The 2018 Class of Regulators included many great recipients with none other than my very own Jackaroo!! Way to go man.

Two more from Australia – RC Shot, Mrs H, our Oklahoma friends – Flat Top Okie, Missouri Mae, Dutch friends – Dutch Bear, Justice Anne, Texas sweetheart – Sopapilla Sue and many more!! Congratulations to you all!

As the beer flowed, the Margarita party started at Hot Tamale’s and then it was time for sleep as Main Match was due to start today.

Now we arrive into today, Thursday – First day of main match. Jack and I are in Posse 21 with Red Haymaker our illustrious posse leader, Pepper Shot, C N Double, Captain Clark, Cowboy Jon, Deadly Don, Estancia Kid, Fast Fingers, Garrison Joe, Gilly Boy Hellbender, Huachuca Slim, James Colt, Lil Rob, Longcolt, Mick E Mouse, Old Frenchy, Sharpeye, Sunshine Belle, Jackaroo and myself. A big thanks to Nacho Momma for keeping score for all of us!

Four stages on the mid wave – 9, 10, 11, 12 were shot today with some degree of difficulty and success, blue skies, sunshine and a hell of a lot of New Mexico dust! Once we finished we shot the Posse shoot and we have a pretty good running time for that at the moment!

With weary feet, smiles as wide as you can get, we head to have lunch then back to the Motel for rest, relaxation and cleaning dust out of guns, nose etc. Haa haa haa

Coupled with a chat with Clancy, the occasional beer and a bit of hand sewing to finalise costume it is now getting late. Oh and a bit of cream puff for dessert. (groan after creammmmmm)

Charlies Spic n Span, Las Vegas NM ultra large mega cream puffs!

It is time to hit the hay, for the posse rides early in the morning with first shots down range at 7.30am.

Night peeps! Here’s to another awesome day tomorrow. Make it count! We are all still in the game! It ain’t over, til it’s over!

Hugs

Kat xo

Durango – Moriarty

Posted on by kathousekelli70

We left Colorado yesterday morning to the haunting sounds of a steam train whistle.

Heading along highways, through small towns and crossing the Animas River more than once, the landscape has again changed to a somewhat green desert. A lot greener than we have seen in the past.

It seemed fitting when passing through Bernalillo to snap this shot of the street sign!

For now we are in New Mexico and it’s time to get set for the World Championships!

Gather your posse and see you on the range!

Kat xo