In loving memory
TRES CHER STORY
February 24, 1982 ~ May ,7 2005

By Elizabeth Botelho Camelot Farm
http://www.geocities.com/camelotfarm_00/

Taken in 1998, this is Tres Cher Story with one of her sons, Tristrams Fancy Story, now 8

There. They’ve gone in for their supper. Finally. I don’t have much time.
Soon she’ll be coming out to sleep in the loft above, to watch, to help if necessary. She doesn’t know that I know that she’s there, and has been when I gave birth to your brothers and sisters, but this time is for you and for me. I don’t want anyone watching. Not even her.
They’ve been fussing over me for weeks now, not that I’m complaining. They know how much I love to be a mother. It’s what I live for.

She knows just where to curry me, and she does so every day. And I love the way he calls me “Girly Mamma,” and even when he calls me “Buffalo Wallow Woman.” I know he means it in a good way.
But you’re meant to be my last foal. Are you a colt? Or a filly? Will you look like me? I hope you have your dad’s eyes.
Will I be able to keep up with you? I’m getting old, you see. I’m 23 this past February.
***
Oh, it’s time! You’re on your way! I can hardly wait to see you. We must hurry now.

Oh, my darling, you’re almost here. I’m going to rest just a moment before I give you a final push out into the world.
I’m very tired, but just look at you! You’re the most beautiful boy I’ve ever seen! And look! You do have your daddy’s eyes!
Stand, my darling. It’s time for you to have your first meal. It’s very important. Oh, not there, but you’re getting close. Just a little further back. Let me cock my leg a little so you can find my milk. Ah, darling, there you go.
Drink, drink my precious. You need this nourishment to help you on your way. I want you to know that I am very proud of you. I have never been happier.
And your dad is very proud and happy too. He’s not saying much, but I can see him in the stall across the hall. He’s looking very pleased with himself.
But I’m feeling very tired now. More tired than I’ve ever been.

Now I know it’s time for me to go. You were my last gift. I will love you always.

I must lie down now, and let go. I have friends there. I’m not afraid.
But you, my darling boy, must live! And thrive!
And you will. With the love of the humans we know who have taken care of our family for so long, and for the humans we will meet and will raise you and make of you the wonderful horse you were meant to be. And will be, my darling son.
I must go now. It’s my time.
Be well my sweet.
Love always,
Your mom,
Tres Cher

by Elizabeth Botelho
copyright 2005

Our beloved Tres Cher Story now lies under the apple tree in the paddock where she lived happily for so many years, and where her children’s hoofsteps gently touch the ground above.