Those of you that have followed my column over time know that I normally attach myself to things that rely on horsepower. This month I would like to pay tribute to its original and purest form, the horse.

 In December we said goodbye to one of the most dignified and enduring equines of all time. Goldi, so named for her golden Palomino luster, amazed us with her youthful longevity until her 40th year of life. Goldi shared her last 27-1/2 years with her lovingly devoted caretaker Cindy Powell. Goldi is survived by her half Belgian son Dallas whom she delivered to Cindy in 1978, the year of the horse. Goldi and Dallas' special story was featured  in a national horse magazine in 1994.

 Dallas continues to mourn with us over the loss of his mother and lifelong pasture-mate. His grief was felt by all who heard his mournful whinnies as he stood protectively and faithfully over his departed companion, and his sorrowful cries continued for many nights thereafter.

 This magnificent Quarter Horse mare with the buckskin racing stripe was known for her indomitable speed, distinct intelligence, and graceful motion. Our golden girl greatly exceeded a horse's average life expectancy of 25 years as she left us also in the year of the horse.

 We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Goldi's veterinarian Dr. Ellen Johnson of Apalachin who provided Goldi with many years of quality veterinary care. Dr. Johnson's skillful dedication and compassion saw us through the most difficult of times at the conclusion of Goldi's life.

 Goldi is greatly missed but her legacy reminds us that the true spirit of the horse summons us to be carefree and fills our hearts with peaceful and timeless beauty. So with gratitude for enriching our lives, we pay special tribute to this most noble and enduring spirit who made all of our days golden.
 . . . and thus is the purist  power of the horse.