Dawn,

Your post left me crying as I know the pain and grief you must be feeling as I share the same after Mill's passing just 7 days ago. These incredible once in a lifetime horses leave hoofprints all over our hearts. Treasure the times that you had together and remember the love that you shared.

I have always found the poem below poignant, many years before the time finally came, and especially now. 

God's Foal

I'll lend you for a little while
My Grandest foal, He said,
For you to love while he's alive
And mourn for when he's dead.

It may be one or twenty years,
Or days or months, you see.
But, will you, till I take him back,
Take care of him for me?

He'll bring you charms to gladden you,
And should his stay be brief,
You'll have some treasured memories
To bring solace to your grief

I cannot promise he will stay, 
Since all from earth return.
But, there are lessons taught on earth
I want this foal to learn.

I've looked the wide world over
In my search for teachers true.
And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes
With trust I have selected you.

Now will you give him total love,
Nor think of the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come
To take him back again?

I know you'll give him tenderness
And love will bloom each day.
And for the happiness you've known
Forever grateful stay.

But should I come and call for him
Much sooner than you'd planned,
You'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And someday understand.    

    --Author Unknown

--
Jennifer in Middle TN  2010
 Mill 33 1/3 yrs Arabian-PPID, IR & Pacemaker Dependent; 2-13-89 to 6-11-22
Jack 23 yrs TN Walker- IR & RAO

https://ecir.groups.io/g/CaseHistory/files/Jennifer%20and%20Millionairess

https://ecir.groups.io/g/CaseHistory/album?id=831

https://ecir.groups.io/g/CaseHistory/files/Jennifer%20and%20Jack-TN%20Walker