Running Quarter Horse April 2, 1995 - July 4, 2013 My story begins on a late evening in April, 18 years ago when I witnessed the birth of a striking little colt. Little did I know that he would become the love of my life. He was destined to go to the track and though he was not mine I spent hours ground training him and falling deeply and wholeheartedly in love. I kept telling him that if he ran I would never see him again but it was really his choice. He had to choose his own destiny. He made his choice; the trainers said he had more to give but refused to run fast for them and so he came home. Through the intervention of a friend, the owner agreed to sell  Quester to me for the amount I could afford.   So every morning for the last 14 years, I have been greeted by his deep nicker – essentially saying, “Hi, can you walk faster to bring me my food?” and every night before I went to bed, he was there to give me hugs and kisses and get his evening snack. He was the best horse; we had such fun.  Even with the very occasional temper tantrums and bucks,  we were partners in life. He made me laugh. When we cantered,  we were one spirit – with hair blowing in the wind and hearts singing. We rode for hours on the weekends. He loved pepper trees and would slow down so I could reach up and get him some leaves to eat and then there were our carrot spots – the top of a tall hill or at the fork of a longer way home. He was spoiled and he deserved to be. He was so kind and gentle.   My story ends on the 4th of July. My boy had had a number of colics - the cause of which we could not find in spite of a 3 week hospital stay.  I felt that once the decision was made I never got to properly say goodbye to this wonderful animal that taught me so much and gave me such joy.   So, Quester, please know that although you took a part of my heart when you left, I still have part of yours with me. I can still smell you if I think hard enough. I feel incomplete and off-balance so I can only imagine how you are feeling.   We will be together some day. Meanwhile run and play with Scotty and Cisco until you see me crossing to the other side, then run to me so we can ride towards the light together. I love you so much. I miss you terribly. I will always be yours.   Michele

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