In memory of my Foxy Roxee (July 2, 1995 - July 10, 2009)

[Roxee's Dad]

In memory of my Roxee girl. July 2, 1995 – July 10, 2009

Today is her 3 month Angel Day. So I felt that it was finally time to post a tribute to my special little girl Roxee that I miss so much.

Roxee and Rozee were born on July 2, 1995, 6 weeks later we adopted them. They were the only 2 left of the liter. Patty picked out Rozee first and she overheard one of the kids in the house say “See … no one is going to want this one”…. So we took “this one”, to be known as Roxanne. They both fit in one hand on the car ride home.

The first night in our home, I put them both in our bed between Patty and I so I could feel them stirring around in case they needed to go out to piddle. They have slept there for the next 14 years. If the bed was in a hotel, RV or a relative’s, they always slept in bed with us.

We have great memories of them growing up together, learning to play, learning their names, and teaching them how to get out of the pool in case they fell in. Little did I know they would become aqua pups. Roxee spent more time in the pool than I did and I didn’t dare go in without her. When she got tired of swimming, she and Rozee would climb into my floating lounge chair and watch me working in the yard.

Roxee was always happy and excited to do anything we wanted to do just as long as she could be part of it. She loved being the best at everything. If we played ball, Rozee would fetch and return but Roxee had to add the flair of doing a backward flip and catch the ball in mid air. When they went swimming, Rozee was happy just swimming and fetching the ball, Roxee had to dive in and swim underwater to fetch a sunken toy. When we went for walks, she had to be the lead dog.

Roxee and Rozee were always a team. If another dog ever barked at me, Rozee would get in the dog’s face while Roxee would sneak up behind the dog and bite him on the butt. What a tag team. If another dog ever scared Rozee, Roxee would know and would be right there to protect her. Sometimes though, Rozee would outsmart Roxee, if Rozee wanted a treat or toy that Roxee had, Rozee would let out a growl while looking at the door or window, Roxee would drop her treat and run to investigate and protect her home. Rozee would then just saunter over and pick up the treat or toy Roxee left behind. When Roxee saw there was nothing to bark at she would return to find that Rozee had her treat, she would have a confused look on her face that said “NOT FAIR”. She still fell for it for many years. We still laugh so hard over some of these memories.

Christmas was always a special time for Roxee and Rozee. They would become very excited when they saw the tree go up. They knew it was almost time for their yearly big bag of toys. Roxee always knew which presents were hers under the tree. She would nibble at her presents and never touch any of the others. This always amazed me. Christmas morning we would open our gifts and Roxee and Rozee would be dancing around very impatiently until we dumped their bag of toys on the floor. They would pounce on them, pick out their favorites and Roxee of course would try to destroy as many as she could by pulling the stuffing out as quickly as she could before settling down with her favorite which was always a small black and white soccer ball. We kept plenty of those on hand. Christmas will be different this year but we will make sure that Rozee still enjoys it and we will enjoy our special memories of Roxee.

Roxee was my canine soul mate. It’s almost like all I had to do was think of something and she was already way ahead of me. It was like she could read my mind. When I would come home from the office, she would jump in my lap and lay her head on my chest with her favorite ball in her mouth. When I packed to go on a business trip, which was quite often, she would get in my suitcase and give me that sad look. I always felt so bad and couldn’t wait to get back home. I had to learn to pack my suitcase while she was busy eating or outside with Patee, then I would have to hide it in the garage.

When I would come home from a few weeks of being on a business trip, Patty would take all the pups out in the backyard and I would sneak in the house and hide in the bedroom closet. Upon returning into the house, it would take Roxee about 10 seconds and I would hear her start crying and she would run around until she found me which would take about another 5 seconds. Rozee, Mickee or Bailee, didn’t have a clue but Roxee knew.

I miss my baby girl, I still see her running through the yard, chasing her ball and jumping in the pool. I miss her tail thumping on the bed at the crack of dawn and if I pretended I was still sleeping, she would walk up my chest to give me kisses as if to tell me it was morning and daylight is wasting. We have balls to chase and treats to eat and belly rubs. I miss her standing in the hallway and telling me its bedtime and always beating me to my pillow.

I know that due to the circumstances, she is in now a better place although I believe there is no better place for her than in my arms.

I love you and miss you my baby girl.

[BestBuddy]

John,
Thank you for sharing those beautiful memories. It gives us a little more insight on "our dogs". Yes I do think of them as ours because even if we never met them it feels like we have always known them.
Jenny

[Harley PoMMom]

Dearest John,

What a beautiful tribute to your girl Roxee, and she was definitely your special girl. The bond and love you two shared was indeed extraordinary, and although we love all of our pups, sometimes we do find that "one special pup" that we seem to really connect to...with our heart, our mind and our soul. You found that connection with your Roxee, and I feel so blessed to have known her.

In memory of Foxy Roxee.

Love and hugs.
Lori

[labblab]

Oh John, what a sweet and loving tribute to your baby girl! Thank you so much for sharing these special stories and remembrances. You are giving us all the privilege of joining with you to celebrate her spirit and the gift of her life.

I can imagine that three months seems like such a long time in some ways, and such a short time in others. And what you wouldn't give for just one minute of time with her back in your arms once again. But it is clear that hers was a life that was well-lived and well-loved. And so even though you can no longer hold her physically close, I hope that these precious memories will help to keep her spirit forever alive in your heart.

With many (((hugs))) in honor of your wonderful Foxy Roxee girl ~
Marianne

[mytil]

Oh John,

I read and re-read your truly beautiful post about your sweetie pie Roxee. I think we all the opportunity to have a once in a lifetime doggie soul mate and Roxee was truly your's. The years of happiness, love and complete devotion together and all those wonderful memories truly warms my heart. I know she is forever in your heart and is right beside you always.

((((hugs))))
Terry

[littleone1]

Hi John,

What wonderful memories you have of your little girl! I know it's hard when you lose someone you really love. It does help to ease the pain when you know that they are not in pain or suffering any more. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Terri

[Squirt's Mom]

Dear John,

What a joy to read your loving tribute to Roxee. Of course, it brought tears to my eyes for your pain that I know will never quite subside. But it also brought many smiles to read of your time together. You and Roxee had that special bond and you made that so clear to see with your loving words.

"This one" that "no one would want" was very much wanted, loved and cared for every day of her life and she gave back ten-fold. What a blessing you both were in each others lives!

Thank you for sharing her story with us, for letting us get to know her and you a bit better, and, most of all, for letting us share in honoring her wonderful life with you.

Hugs to you and Patty, and belly rubs to the gang,
Leslie and the girls

[sunimist]

John,

Thank you for sharing such a lovely tribute to your girl Roxee. There is nothing sweeter and more precious than the lifetime of love these little ones fill our hearts with so we can cherish it forever when they have to leave us.

((Many hugs))

Shelba and Suni

[forscooter]

John,

Thank you for sharing Roxee's story...a beautiful, loving tribute to your special girl. I choked up quite a few times....and yet, smiled at how lucky you both will always be to share something so special, so precious that few people will ever know or have with either human or canine companions. She, for sure, knew how much you love her....how much you always will...and that love is returned to you tenfold.

I know the "no better place than in my arms" feeling....and I can only wait to have that again....but she is always by your side...I believe this....

Much love and many hugs to you and Patty and the crew....Beth

[Dollydog]

John,

What a lovely tribute to your little canine soul mate...and how brave you are to be able to write it so soon....and I sure understand the "no better place than in my arms" feeling. :(
((Hugs)) to you and Patty,
Jo-Ann

[SachiMom]

John,
Thank you for sharing Roxee with us. Such a beautiful girl, so much loved and so full of love. Sometimes it seems that the ones that weren't the first chosen ones, like Roxee and Sachi, were saved just for us. We gave them love and they burrowed so deep into our hearts they became a part of us. They will stay with us forever in our heart, until we can once again collect them and hold them in our arms.
Love and many hugs.
~ Mary Ann

[bkdice]

beautiful tribute for a very well loved girl. it sometimes boggles my mind that some people cannot see how special a little fur baby is. so glad you did and picked 'that one' :)

[sarahbera1]

John,
This was a beautiful tribute to your Roxee. She was very much loved and you very much loved by her. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of her life with you.
Sarah, Rascal and Darla in Spirit

[lucygoo]

Hi John..

What a lovely tribute to your beautiful Roxee. Thank you for sharing that; and thank you for being here:)

Gina

[Dave Tietz]

Hey John,

I've been away from the board for awhile and I was shocked and saddend by the passing of Roxee. She was so lucky to have such a wonderful and caring family to share her life with!!

God Bless

Dave

[Roxee's Dad]

Roxee became an Angel 7 months ago today. Just wanted to update my friends and family here at k9cushings and hopefully help Beth a little bit with her most recent loss.

Pattee and I have had fun discussions about dog’s communicating, and we have come to the conclusion that besides body language, they send pictures to each other. Just for an example, we have a few outdoor dogs that live in the neighborhood. Two of them are Zippy and Bockles. When we purchased this house, the original owners were going to build a new house on the lot next door. In the meantime they moved in with her mom who would allow the goats but not the dogs. They did build some shelters for the dogs but because the dogs were raised here, they would always return here to spend the night on our porch. We purchased pet heaters and placed them under their their doggy beds, fed them and let them in the heated mud room when temps got to freezing. (and still do) Well when we would feed Zippy, she would stare at the property next door, no barking, just stare and before you knew it, Bockles would be coming up our driveway for her dinner. So we came to the conclusion that Zippy was sending Bockles a picture of dinner.

Last year about this time we found LittleBit wondering out in snow on our country road. We think Roxee knew the end was near, even before I could even consider it. We feel that Roxee knew I would need a distraction, a pup that loves to be held and cuddled much like Roxee did. I love my Rozee and Mickee but they are not cuddlers. Rozee likes to be up against me when sleeping but not cuddled. Roxee was perfectly content with sleeping in my arms for hours and even preferred it or I should say demanded it. So we came to the conclusion that Roxee brought LittleBit into our lives, not to replace her but to help fill a void she knew she would leave in my heart, soul and arms. She knew I needed that and knew LittleBit needed a home and a human that loved to cuddle and give long belly rubs. Somehow Roxee knew the end was coming and sent LittleBit into my life. Was LittleBit sending pictures that she was in trouble, in snow over her head with paws pads that were raw? Did Roxee receive that picture and tell her to come here? I don’t know, but I would like to think so.

LittleBit has been a blessing in our home, she is always so happy and eager to please. Loves to be cuddled and somehow always finds a way to get into my lap. Rozee and Mickee also depend on her as their hearing ear dog as they both have gone deaf and look to LittleBit for any signs of any abnormal sounds around the house. It took about 6 months for LittleBit and Kittee to co-exist. LittleBit has brought life back into our house and it warms my heart to see Rozee chase LitleBit around the house and yard. My heart just melts when I see Rozee and LittleBit sleeping together all cuddled up just like Roxee and Rozee always did.

So when I think of Beth and Bailey, I know Scooter and Bailey brought Pallie Jr into her life as much as I believe Roxee brought LittleBit into our lives. Little Pallie needed Beth and Scooter and Bailey knew that Beth would need Little Pallie to help fill the void they knew they would leave behind. I don't doubt that Bailey left a little of his devilish personality in Pallie and it will show through on occasion and know that he did this for his own devilish reasons.

I still miss my Roxee girl more than I can ever describe. In my minds eye, I still see her everywhere. I know she is here with me in my heart and in my soul just as Bailey and Scooter will always be a part of Beth and Little Pallie.

Love and miss my Foxy Roxee girl.

[Dollydog]

John, that's a lovely thought of them sending pictures to other dogs to help us out when they're gone. And in doing so they help guide other dogs to wonderful homes.
I'm glad Littlebit helps you out with her cuddles....and Zippy and Bockles are two very blessed pups!

Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel....who's keeping your Roxee girl company

[littleone1]

What wonderful thoughts and memories, John. This was so very kind of you to post this in the hopes that it would help Beth get through these rough times.

Even though I don't have another furbaby, I thank God for Corky. He really helped me get through the bad times after Jay passed away. I never had a pet growing up, but Jay always did. He always wanted a Boston Terrier, but I wouldn't give in. Finally, when we saw Corky, there was something there that made me agree to getting him.

I do believe that somehow, there are pictures and vibes sent by our babies that are meant to help us.

[Squirt's Mom]

What a wonderful post, John! I, too, believe we are given, or sent, the things we need at the time we need them; whether we are aware of our need or not, someone is and sends us these gifts just in time.

I came across this quote a few days ago and my first thought was of Beth and so many others who have lost their babies. It really struck a cord with me.

"It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life, gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are. -Unknown"

May we all live long enough....

Hugs to you and yours,
Leslie

[bkdice]

Thank you for sharing those wonderful stories - especially about LittleBit. :) :) :)

I remember seeing a program quite a few years ago about how dogs would know when you were on your way home. They tried to figure out if it was just certain sounds, but it wasn't. They were not fooled... they only seemed to know when their owners were on the way - usually within 10 minutes of them arriving - no matter what the time was.

I just believe that animals have more senses than we do. They feel energy. Gosh... Niko used to HATE when I got tense or angry - which I often did driving. I would stay still and not change my expression or say anything out loud, in an effort to fool him into thinking I wasn't mad. But he knew every time. I'd get the concerned look, and then a paw on me. Of course, that really did get me over my anger.

To think some people will never know the power of love from a fur baby.

[forscooter]

John,

I read this last night right before I went to bed and choked up....not in a hurt way but in a good way. I couldn't post until now. Thank you so very very much for sharing this with me. I don't know if I can fully convey how it touched me and what it means to me. But please know you helped me a great deal.

I went to bed and talked out loud to Bailey. I asked him to come. And as I posted in his story, Baby Pallie, although in my half asleep state I can't remember what it was exactly now, but she did something only Bailey ever did as a puppy...and it woke me and I though oh my gosh!!!! If I remember, which I have been trying to do, I will let you know.

A few weeks before Bailey died, I kept getting this feeling, and I told my friend this, that he would look at Baby Pallie and he would look at me, and it was like he was trying to say, I can go now....she is older, she is good, you will be OK now....I told my friend this weeks ago.

But in my mind, in my heart, I had thoughts of but what if I am wrong? What if that look was you have her now you don't need me? What if he felt I brought her to take his place? I am the queen of the "what ifs" and of guilt....

I hope what I saw was how you describe it...I hope that he just felt he could stop fighting, stop trying, bc I never wanted him to suffer...not one minute just for me. If you remember, I had no intentions of ever getting another dog...and then something happened that one night when I was on the computer and saw Baby Pallie. It wasn't any dog I was looking at, but I had to have HER. As my son said, "THIS DOG"....and something came over me the next day, insanity most likely, and I wrote one email and then next thing you know I was making plans to go get her. I had to have her.

I love your story and I hope that is what is was...that Scooter and Angel Pallie and the others, and even Bailey, sent me this butternut of a dog to help me....bc she is a light in my life and I love her just for her...she is a special cuddly girl and she is a true blessing to me. Just not when she is eating the toilet brush, or the cat, or the socks, or the gloves....but she is a kind and gentle soul underneath the satanic exterior....

I hope Bailey does know that no one, there is just no way, who could ever replace him. And I hope he was at peace and ready...and your story gives me hope that that was the case and I was right in my first thinking before I started to torture myself...

Much love, many many thanks, and lots of hugs...Beth

[lulusmom]

John, I always enjoy your posts but this one is probably my favorite. I was touched deeply and perhaps not for the same reasons others were touched by it. I was touched, yet again, by how incredibly loving and nurturing you and Pattee are for all furbabies that are fortunate enough to be within arms length. I love you both!!!

G.

[bkdice]

John - I know you are about to hit a huge milestone. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I imagine the pain in your heart is intense. I hope you are able to remember happy times with your girl to help you through.

Bettina

[mytil]

John,

I know today will be tough, as your little Roxee was born today; but I truly hope it is one of celebration of Roxee's life and the wonderful warm memories you both will share forever.

Always In Loving Memory of your girl.
(((((hugs)))))
Terry

[Harley PoMMom]

Big hugs to you, my friend.

[Squirt's Mom]

Big ole sobby hugs to all...

[littleone1]

My thoughts are with you today.

[Roxee's Dad]

Thank you everyone for your kind words. I can't ever remember feeling like this. One moment I am so happy and playing with Rozee and the next I am shedding tears as I miss my Roxee so much, especially on this special day. First time Rozee has celebrated her birthday without her sister.

[SavingSimon]

John,
Praying that the good memories, and knowledge you were the best dog Roxee could have had will pull you through these tough times.
Love,
Dena, Simon, & pack

[sunimist]

Thinking bout you tonight John and hope you are doing a little better.

(((HUGS)))

Shelba and Suni

[mypuppy]

It's ok John. Let it all out. Roxee will always be with you.
How about some tight hugs. Luv. Jeanette and Princess

[lulusmom]

John, I wish I could fill the empty void and the sorrow you feel as the first anniversary of your precious Roxee's passing nears but only old man time will allow you to let go of your sorrows and hold on to the sweet memories. My thoughts will be with you and Pattee in the coming days.

Hugs,
G.

[Squirt's Mom]

Hugs to you and Pattee....

[zoesmom]

John - Another milestone and another wave of sadness. I know exactly where you're coming from.

It was just over 13 years ago - end of June - that a cute little wiggly girl named Shadow came into my life. I will never forget how she sat down right in front of me, looking up at me with eyes so hopeful, her ratty tail swishing back and forth in the grass. Who could say no to that. Anyway, it was the first day of the rest of Zoe's life. And seeing your post made me remember that July 2 was the day I first took her in to the vets . . . . for a mange treatment dip. Funny how memories and dates can set off the tears all over again.

So today, I'm going to raise a toast, in memory of your Roxee and my Zoe and all the others who've gone on to the bridge. At least, there are no fireworks where they now play and romp! Sue

[Franklin'sMum]

John,
Thinking of you and yours, and sending my love.
Hugs,
Jane xx

[Casey's Mom]

John thinking of you and Roxee - I just read your post about LittleBit - what a wonderful story!! Roxee angel is looking over you John.

Love and many hugs,

[Roxee's Dad]

Thank you for your very kind and comforting words. They mean a lot to me.

Today is Roxee's 1 year Angel Day. I miss her and everything about her. The tears still flow freely and many times unexpectedly, but also so many happy and loving memories. The tears are for me because "I" miss her, the happy and loving memories are for her because she deserves them.

I will always miss you and love you baby girl.

[bkdice]

John,

I've lit a candle for your very special girl. I know your heart is heavy today. My thoughts are with you.

Bettina

[Harley PoMMom]

Big hugs to you, my dear friend.

Love and ((((hugs))))
Lori

[sunimist]

Thinking bout you with lots of hugs today John. 14 days and I will be where you are now. Sometimes the pain is overpowering as you well know, but also like you, I have so many precious memories of my sweet girl.

We will never forget you sweet Roxee girl and no matter how many anniversaries come and go, we will never stop loving and missing you.

Love and (((hugs)))

Shelba and Suni~~

[Carol G]

These anniversaries are difficult. I understand how much you miss Roxee and you are in my thoughts.

Carol

[Roxee's Dad]

Thank you everyone. Your kindness is comforting and it does help when we share in the sadness. It really helps to help ease the heavy burden. I know many of my friends here have loved and lost a precious pup and understand how it feels.

We moved into our new house yesterday so a combination of happiness and a bit of sorrow. Roxee was the first to have a place in our new home. I guess I will always remember the date we moved into this house :)

Thank you again for your kindness and understanding.

(((Hugs))) to you all.

[Bichonluver3]

John
We are relatively new here so never had the opportunity and privilege of knowing your sweet baby while she was here.
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful life together with Chloe and me.
Tears are also in my eyes and my heart aches with yours as it comes through loud and clear how much you love and miss her. She seems so special and I know how much she must have loved you in return and would want you to think only of the happy times you shared.
Our thoughts are with you and hope that the sun can shine again for you soon and that life will only be full of smiles at the times you shared.
Love and doggie kisses,
Carrol & Chloe

[fivebichons]

John,
Thinking of you and your Sweet Roxee. Hoping the memories bring you some comfort. They will forever be in our hearts.
Lots of hugs,
Heidi
Marco, Sophie, Sasha & Maggie
...Friskie, Lucky, Cheri & Snicky from Heaven...

[BestBuddy]

John,

I hope your memories of sweet Roxee always bring a smile to your face. I tend to skip over my sad anniversaries and spend my time celebrating their lives weeks after. Strange, but that's just how I get through it. Their time with us is oh so short and all we can do it pack as much love into the time we have with them.

Jenny

[Altira]

I can't read this stuff.... Makes me cry... ((((hugs))))

[John II]

Here we are again. :(
I can't believe it's been 3 years!
(((Massive Hugs))) Brother John & Family.

[Jenny & Judi in MN]

hugs. they become part of our lives. Judi

[Squirt's Mom]

Many, huge, lovin' hugs to you, Pattee, and the kids in loving memory of our sweet, sweet Roxee.

Leslie, Squirt, Trinket, Brick and Tasha

[molly muffin]

John {{{{ HUGS }}}}

[Harley PoMMom]

Sending you all huge and loving hugs, Lori

[Roxee's Dad]

Oh my gosh... thank you so much.... tears are flowing. I miss her so much.

Roxee's litter mate sister, Rozee, is still with us and reminds me of her everyday....They were inseparable, but now she looks for LittleBit and has to see her or know where she is at before she will relax.

Thank you so much for all the hugs.

[lulusmom]

Hi John,

I saw Roxee's picture on Facebook and just wanted to say that I will never forget that precious face. I know how much you still miss her. We miss her too. She was so lucky to have lived the good life with you and Pattee, as are Rozee and LittleBit. You've gone the extra mile for all your babies, not to mention all those neglected rescue babies you made much more comfortable by bathing and grooming them.

It is amazing to have been witness to Rozee walking on her own four feet to walking in her spiffy rear wheel cart and back to walking on her own four feet again. I have a mental image of this little Roxee angel sitting on Rozee's shoulder, urging her on and reassuring her that she could do it. :D

[Roxee's Dad]

Thanks Glynda,
There is not a day that goes by that Pattee and I are not thankful and in amazement of her ability to walk and even run again. She can't swim anymore, she kinda just sinks although she is paddling, so I take her in and let her paddle while I hold her. Then all heck breaks loose as she runs around the yard like a crazy woman :D Obviously age is catching up to her but we often times just smile when we see her running around.

I am so sure you are right, Roxee even in life has always watched over her sister and I am sure she still is even from the bridge.

(((HUGS)))