The barely begun portrait had long ago been relegated to the back of my studio closet. Nothing wrong with the composition, and I knew the likeness was good of both of us. Nonetheless, there it languished through the years and a move...just a pencil sketch on stark white canvas. Then came word of an online art competition. My thoughts returned to Misty’s unfinished portrait and my art booth the upcoming Appaloosa World Show. Now was the time to get back to work. The day I put the finishing touches on her portrait I was overcome by emotions I’d never experienced with any other canvas. But then, consumed by painting everyone else’s animals, I’d never before seen one of my own old friends come back to life in oils. I actually choked up with the sudden realization of why I had never been able to finish this particular painting. This one was personal. It would be our last ride together. Thirty some years fell away as I contemplated Misty’s still familiar face and once again felt the wind against my own. Surely when He created horses to provide such irreplaceable earthly companionship for us, God reserved a special spot in Heaven for them as well. So long, and thanks old girl. It was a heck of a ride. Every day of my life I will look at and treasure her portrait as well as my Memories Of Misty.