My husband and I met , when he came to purchase a filly I had for sale. She was a sweet baby and 1 who was destined for greatness. Sadly on Sunday, November 26th we lost our beautiful girl to an illness. Both myself and Collin are devestated by this loss, as you can imagine.

1 week ago Ima April Star (April) got collic and although she seemed to be recovering, 3 days later she lost the foal she carried. We were upset but so glad we did not lose our mare. This was her second pregnancy, and her second lost foal. On Friday, April was turned back out with the other horses, as she seemed better. Sunday morning, during feeding time, we came across her lying dead in the snow. To say this lost breaks our hearts is putting it mildly.

April was definately destined for greatness. She was the best of our horses. She worked cattle with never a mistake. She always carried her rider safely, no matter what the conditions. She carried Collin over mountains, ice, mud. Through storms, and high winds, and through bright sunny days. She would carry a calf on her back to bring it in out of a winter storm, & carry the children on lead line. She loved to run and was often spotted running side by side with her mate, King Peppy Rebel Bar, or one of her mare friends. Her tail flying and nostrils drinking in the wind. She could be seen in spring to babysit the foals, and protect all the herd from coyotes or any danger. She was by far the best lead mare that a herd could ask for. She had more heart than any horse I have ever met. Never did she refuse to do something we asked of her, even when she was frightened, or unsure. She was expecting the foal of our dreams. The ultimate match between 2 horses. She was more than a horse to us, but was our best friend and almost our child.

She will be horribly missed. To us, she is irreplacable friend who is mourned greatly. We thank God for each and every day she graced us with her love and beauty.

To Ima April Star..the little mare with the huge heart...Run free my friend, with no fences to hold you back, and the wind streaming through your hair. No halter or saddle shall ever be placed upon your beautiful head. Graze well on the lush grasses and drink of the pure waters. You will be missed, but we know that you are happy and safe ,awaiting the time we can be reunited. Go with our love little daughter, and know that your memory will always be carried in our hearts. You take a piece of us with you and know we will hold tight to you in our hearts. You are buried on the hill overlooking the ranch, where you may watch over us, as you always have.

Collin & Dianne