You came into my life quite unexpectedly one beautiful October day. My men brought you home as a surprise. What a surprise you were! Such a tiny girl, uncertain of her surroundings, both timid and shy you clung to my son as if your life depended upon it. I had my doubts about you and yet from the moment our eyes first met I just knew you were for keeps! We became a family that day. Somehow I managed to potty train you on piddle pads…a somewhat daunting task! We sailed through though, with the help of frozen green beans, cheese and your Auntie Ann. I remember well those sidelong glances you cast my way when you knew I was watching, only to turn sharply away with what appeared to me a somewhat smug expression. How you tested me!!! I recall the time you jumped up on my side of the bed to urinate and pointedly parade about. “ Off with her head” I bellowed! You bolted. Rarely have I seen such agility!!! You had nerves of steel and a will of iron. Always the center of attention, you demanded it. An opportunist at the ready…all was fair game. As on the day my son so carelessly left his dinner plate on the floor only to return to find you devouring its contents. “Too late! I’ve been had! Just one more quick bite!” How you enjoyed your kibble! As usual you claimed everyone’s heart. You even made friends with an unlikely pair of Sand Hill Crane who visited frequently, coming for a visit even when you were hospitalized . Walks were always an adventure for you, even to the last. A better watchdog I could not ask for! It is with heavy hearts we bid you farewell my darling girl!!! How I long to feel your wet kisses on my face, your warm cuddly body close to mine, the sound of your playful antics and quite simply … your voice. The days are long since you left us, the silence almost unbearable at times. No more will I hear the familiar sound of your paws marking your passage. How could I know what a gift we had in you? Your coming and passing will be forever etched on our souls dear friend. Rest peacefully Chiclet. Your spirit lives on… Mommy, Daddy, Dru and Marcy