My first two Corgis, Watson & Tinsel, had two litter mates, Holly and Mistletoe.  We had the good fortune to meet and photograph Great Aunt Mistletoe, AKA Missy, a couple of years ago before she went to the bridge but I'd never made contact with Holly's owners.

Great Aunt Holly, almost 14

As it worked out, I was finally able to do that and she lives right in Phoenix.  Mrs. Lundgren, now about 90, still has Holly who will be 14 in December.  She also has a corgi named Rory, much younger and also kinfolk to Gromit.  Some e-mails and phone calls transpired and after the corgi picnic this past Sunday, Gromit and Sparkle and I went off to visit with Mrs. Lundgren and see Great Aunt Holly.

Holly's sire was AM/CAN Ch. Sandyshire's the Phantom ROMX, a spectacular dog who sired more than forty champions including Gromit's grandpa, Ch Coalbyn's Braveheart, and Sparkle's grandma, Ch Elfwish Amy of Wyntree at Craigycor. (Whew, what a mouthful!)

Holly isn't in the best of health now, she is completely deaf and has a heart condition that may take her suddenly.  She's a bit frumpy too, sniffed at Gromit and Tinsel and me and deigned to pose for photos.  Given her age and situation I settled petting her for snapping pictures such as I could.

Gromit with Great Aunt Holly in the background

Mrs. Lundgren tells me Holly still eats well and periodically still works up enough energy to chase the cat. There is no sign of the DM that claimed her sister Tinsel.

All in all we had a lovely visit, Mrs. L is a charming, elegant lady, and so loves her dogs that she resists moving into a retirement place as she cannot bear giving up her corgis.  I hope to get back for another visit soon, perhaps for Holly's 14th birthday in a couple of weeks.