Fitting right in with the western theme is this saloon. Actually, it is not a saloon but a sales office for one of the breeding farms. The biggest clue? The ribbons hanging on the facade — all earned this year in the various competitions. I am told that a lot of business takes place here — buying and selling of fine horses, over the beverage of the buyer's choice. Thus perhaps it is a saloon after all.

In the previous photo, you may have noticed the shovel next to the front stoop — and wondered what it was for. And here is the answer — horse poop.

Incidentally, my little buddy Johnny thinks this is the funniest thing he has ever seen. Such is the mentality of a seven-year-old boy. But seriously, it is something that one must be aware of as you walk about the grounds.

Another business establishment — this one is not selling horses but carved signs. They probably don't make as much on each transaction but the merchandise is more in my price range.

Look left, look right — there is always another horse walking by. Both rider and horse appear ready for competition.

Nearby was a small corral with two people explaining and demonstrating the halter competition. This is a type of horse show class where horses are shown "in hand," meaning that they are led, not ridden, and are judged on their conformation and suitability as breeding stock.

The man pictured here explained how the handler will lead the horse and what the judges are looking for. For the uninitiated, such as myself, it is surprising to learn how much goes into such competition.

Here we see another rider, this one in western garb, heading for a different kind of competition — pictures coming up in a future week.

I am still surprised to see dogs at a public show. This pooch seem really well behaved and thus no disruption to the show or the horses.

Then I spotted a small crowd around this young girl and her puppy. Who can resist such a cute little puppy?

I was impressed with the attire of many of the participants. I am sure that one knowledgeable about horses and horse competition will recognize and explain the different outfits. All I can do is look and admire it all.

I do think that the combination of neatly attired rider and well-trained horse is quite impressive. And there are a lot of both in evidence here in Scottsdale.