You all know that Little Star is Gwendolyn's animal BFF. She loves him so much and he loves her. I've written about them here, here, and here.
We are so lucky that Diane (Little Star's Mommy) is such a dear friend. She always includes us and she always, always makes Gwendolyn feel special. We met Diane through hospice where she has been a volunteer for years. She came in ready to do whatever it was we needed — grocery shopping, errands, hugs, you name it. But it wasn't just her practical help that changed our lives — it was her. Her spirit, her positive energy, her cheerleading, her understanding, her kindness… Diane has consistently gone out of her way for us and for Gwendolyn. Heck, she even bought a horse in part for Gwendolyn.
It all started on an outing out to Santa Ynez to see the mini horses at Quicksilver Ranch. Diane used to take her own three children to Quicksilver when they were young (they are now teens) to see the darling minis and to pick apples at the orchard across the way. Being around Gwendolyn she remembered this and thought we could all use a trip like this. What happened on that day was life-changing for both of us. A Quicksilver employee, Maria, happened to be there that Saturday and she happened to be in the office when we arrived. And she happened to be really kind and when she met Gwendolyn and we mentioned how much she loves animals, she took one of the gentle ponies out of the stall so Gwendolyn could pet him close up. Gwendolyn loved it. She was beyond thrilled. And Diane witnessed the entire encounter. That moment brought back and stirred all these memories and hopes for Diane. And soon enough she was researching therapy horses, tracking down the most gentle, and Little Star and his spunky friend, Zorro, soon arrived.
Diane has now started Little Star Pony Foundation so she can help others in need of a little love. We are so proud of her and we are honored to be Little Star's first friend (Gwendolyn still thinks she's his only friend — and that is okay 
HERE to read.
Thank you Diane for being and bringing such a gift in our life!!!