Showkayce, the cornerstone of Carol Steppe’s Santa Ynez Day Dream Arabians breeding program has left this world. A beautiful tribute to Showkayce…

Dear Mom,

Yes, people say that a mother’s love is like no other. And, Mom, you were that person to me.

You loved my strong spirit. You were there when I took my first breath. You stayed close to my side in each chapter of my life. You supported my careers as a show horse and breeding stallion with every opportunity possible, carefully watching out to protect and preserve my pride. You somehow knew I needed that dignity vigilantly defended.

I wanted to share with you some of my fondest memories. I loved being next to the mares every foaling season. I would quietly listen and wait for you to come over and tell me if everything was ok. You would tell me if I’d just had a son or daughter, and as the years passed, you would tell me if I was a Grandfather or Great Grandfather. When you were home I cherished our nightly talks in the barn when all was quiet and still, especially when they included carrots. Not many knew what a big softy I could be.

Putting on a show during our presentations was my favorite activity! I loved running across my pasture and coming to a sliding stop and finishing off with several snorts and blows on our guests. You would always tell me what a beautiful boy I was and made sure I was rewarded for my efforts. I was having the best time and loved the attention and making our guests happy.

Like every mother, you were consistently my number one supporter… even before my career blossomed and even after my popularity paled. But most importantly, you loved me with a divine love. You reminded me (and everyone around you) each day who my true Creator was.

Our last visit may have been one of my most cherished. Tiffany and David kept telling me you were coming for a visit. I waited patiently. Then you came! Our quiet talks and hugs meant everything to me. I missed you so much. I got to show you how much I missed and loved you; I hope you could feel my love for you in my soft brown eyes and quiet breaths on your face. I knew it would be the last time we would see each other. I wanted to have you see how happy and at peace I was.

Thank you for helping me live an earthly well-lived life, a life lived with courage, tenacity, love, and intention, from the day it started on April 3, 1992, to the day it ended on November 30, 2020.

You would often say to me, “His eye is on every sparrow and living thing, and, my Showkayce, He is watching over you too.” I want to assure all my loved ones that He is still watching over me… even at this very moment. I’m flying high with my wings right now. In fact, heaven wasn’t quite prepared for the excitement they acquired with this white Arabian stallion!

Thank you, my Carol, my mother, my friend.
With eternal love until we meet again,

Your Showkayce