When I first saw my little girl I knew she was meant to be mine. We are in the ministry and she had a perfect cross on her head! Her mother had deserted her in the woods, mine had disowned me we were a perfect match! She got her name because we lived on Queensway Ct. our next door neighbor's dog was Duke so, it just followed that she had to be the "Duchess of Queensway Ct!" Duchess had two kitty sisters, Bubbles and Misty. Bubbles died young from diabetes but Duchess treated Misty as though she were her daughter. We would often find them cuddled together sleeping. If Duchess were drinking and Misty came to the bowl she would back up so Misty could drink. Her best friend was, Shannon a Cocker Spaniel. She belonged to her Auntie Jill and would have sleepovers and spent hours playing and sharing treats!
Among her favorite things: fishing, riding in a boat where, she was the captain! She was afraid of the water but, one day, Auntie Jill taught her to swim and then we couldn't keep her out of it! Her favorite toys was a snowman and a hedgehog. We had to spell R-I-D-E because she got so excited! Once she was in the car you never knew she was there that is until, a tractor trailer passed. Then she shook so much we thought she would go bald!!
She was a very quick learner and knew ALL her commands and tricks to sign! She loved everyone especially kids. One of the funniest things I remember is, Duchess had no idea that, as a Beagle, she was supposed to howl! That is until, a neighbor moved in with two beagles Well, I can say this much... SHE WAS A QUICK STUDY!! LOL!!
Another quality she had was compassion. In the years that followed, I became very ill and almost died. I couldn't play with her like I used to. I went on chemo and she stayed by my side! When I got sick she followed me to the bathroom then back to the couch. I remember the day when I got well and how we played again! I know that she had a lot to do with that!
Then came the terrible day when the word, "cancer" was said! The Vet said, "you'll know." Well, Duchess would not be out done! She fought just like her mommy! She lived for four more years.
Today she resides right near my chair and I know that really she plays in her garden and swims in the lake. I hope there are fish there for her to play with!
I did get another companion but, he is not a replacement! He has his own very special place and is loved with his own special love. I have told him all about his sister.
It's been a whole year and I still cry when I think of her! I can feel her special kind of "hug" and her fur against my neck! I will forever be grateful to The Lord for counting me worthy of a wonderful gift called Duchess Marie!!