Tucker

As I mentioned yesterday, they often say that “the best camera in the world is the one you have with you.” To that end, I find myself using my iPhone now and then when caught out without a “real” camera and an opportunity presents itself.

Unfortunately, I am terrible about sending myself those images and working them up for presentation. So, the camera roll in my “antique” iPhone 4 has been swelling and then just sitting there gathering…dust?…ions…?…static…?

Below is an image I found sitting in the “camera roll” from about a year ago (April, 2013) and have just now processed. For me, at least, it packs a powerful emotional punch and brings back an avalanche of memories. Tucker was one of our more reliable, faithful, tolerant, loving and friendly equine companions. Many very young children got their start on his furry, stable and comfortable back…folks with a fear of horses rode him…heck, even María and I had our turns.

This is a photograph of him, hanging from the backhoe, on his way to his burial site in the midst of a muddy, sloppy, freezing blizzard at the former Joder Arabian Ranch. An ignominious end for such a proud creature. This may shock some, but it is a part of the cycle of life on any ranch. It’s just the way things are.

So long, Tucker. We still remember how you were in your prime!

Tucker’s Burial. Joder Arabian Ranch, Colorado, April 9, 2013