I didn't know Zip but your message about him was really increadable and I am terribly sorry for your loss, I know how hard it can be and I know that no amount of "im sorrys" are going to bring him back, but from what I can tell he lead a good life and as a fellow horse lover I can say that is all one ever hopes for

I called the herd for their morning meal.
He didn't come and the fear in my heart was immediately real.

He was always there, the head of the herd.
The other horses didn't come for the grain that was offered.
Those equines had a look in their eyes that something was wrong.
I knew in a moment that my pride and joy might be gone.

My heart broke that day.
As I saw Zip in the spot where he lay.

Zippos High Caliber was still beautiful, shiny, and warm.
I'd spent the night before washing and trimming in the barn.
He was silky and clean and ready to show.
All I could do was hug and hold him crying out “no!”

August 1st is a day I will never forget.
Blast the drought, the dust and the humidity that let
my best buddy fall to asthma, that dreadful disease.
I knew in my heart that I couldn't ask “God, please!”

He was gone in his prime and loved by all.
No more trophies or championships or figuring his way out of a stall.
Zip gave his heart in whatever he did.
Be it reining, halter, trail, games, or teaching a kid.

He had almost human-like qualities like no other.
We sadly buried him right beside his dear mother.
Two beloved horses laying side by side.
Thank you to all who rode them, loved them, and cried.

The healing process has barely begun.
I'll never forget the reining patterns that he run.
His speed and his quickness, the collection, the spins.
It was his pride, his heart, his versatility that helped him win.

Now as I stare at his retired bridle and special bit,
those horseshoes, the blankets each with a championship year on it,
I find my heart heavy and sometimes so sad.
I do have Zip's black sister and know that I should be glad.

There forever will be a fondness in my heart
and know that our souls will never be far apart.
I'll look up to heaven and listen for hoofbeats so fast
and know Zip and Blackie are galloping through the grass.

Rest in peace my beautiful red bay.
A piece of my heart went with you that day.

Shelley Sime Fossen

Congratulations, Allie, on being Grand Champion Little Britches and 1st in all sorts of events from Horsemanship, reining, trail, and the gaming events. You have become a wonderful rider.....for a basketball-playing city slicker :o) Shelley