Big Horse Feed and Mercantile “Gift Registry” is the best way to avoid gift giving disasters this holiday season. The gift registry is the perfect opportunity to graciously tell your loved ones what you’d truly like for Christmas. Both registrants and their loved ones will receive 15 percent off any purchase of registry items (restrictions apply). That’s Big Horse savings! And ladies, it’s your night…Ladies Night on Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m.! There’ll be food and refreshments as well as 20 percent savings on your Christmas shopping.

Ever wonder why this iconic store is called Big Horse? Here’s a little history: Since 1972, the Corona family had been farming their 165 acres in Temecula and had often hosted educational programs for local schools. Rose Corona, the Coronas’ daughter, was always in charge of those programs. Rose also owned and used her two Belgian Draft Horses for all of the school programs. Draft Horses are unique, and also quite big. The Coronas one day realized that although people may not know the family, the people in the community and their children sure knew those two horses, named Jim and Mike. Often, people would ask where Corona Ranch was, and when they were told of the location, people would exclaim, “Oh I know you! You’re the ones with the Big Horses!” So with their picture neatly put atop the building in their team harness, Jim and Mike have overlooked the store sign, “Big Horse Feed and Mercantile”. Stop by the store any time, and you’ll find a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, riding and fashion apparel for the whole family, jewelry and accessories, home décor, gifts, feed and plenty of fun. And be sure to whinny at Jim and Mike. You can reach Big Horse at 951-676-2544 with any questions or visit www.BigHorse.com.

Some think Black Friday specials are only to be made at the mall. But for all of your horses and horsey friends and family, your favorite feed and tack stores are offering up great Black Friday specials. Check out the Black Friday coupons on page 10 of this issue and save big on some of your favorite things. Be sure to take the coupons with you to receive your discount and check out the many store ads in this issue.

Located just 30 minutes from Santa Barbara, Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country, you’ll find the Rancho Oso Guest Ranch. Nestled in the beautiful Las Padres National Forest, this RV and camping resort is the perfect place to relax in the great outdoors in Southern California. From luxurious to rustic horse “glamping” you’ll find cottages, cabins, RV and tent sites along with two pools (one heated), spa, general store, playground, volleyball and basketball courts, mini golf, horseshoe pits, picnic areas, community fire pits, and weekend meals. There’s a family lodge with TV and game room; adult lodge with TV, pool table, exercise and meeting rooms. They’re located just a half-hour from the wineries and beach. Bringing your horses is encouraged, as their accommodations include big corrals, arena and round pen and miles of National Forest trails to discover. And they have exception fall and winter weather. Call 805-683-5687 or visit www.Rancho-Oso.com for more information.