Mystique Maltese is a newly formed, small and discriminating show kennel located in Central Virginia. It has grown out of a life-long love and devotion to animals (especially dogs), and country living, where animals have always shared our home. Now that three of our four children have left the nest, I am finding joy pursuing a passion that inspires learning, creativity, camaraderie and TLC. My preference for Maltese over the many other breeds that I have had the good fortune to know and love developed the moment I took one into my home. The beauty, personality, tenderness, intelligence and spirit of these wonderful little creatures make them the epitome of the perfect companion for most any situation or lifestyle. They are certainly the breed for me!!

Although my preference for the breed came from the dogs themselves, my interest and commitment to breeding and showing came after a series or false starts, bad choices and heartaches. Finally, I made a chance call to Bonita Greene of Coquet Maltese, and, to coin a phrase, "That has made all difference." Bonita listened to me, and began to educate me. I will always be grateful for her unselfish sharing and guidance. Her contribution to my commitment is invaluable to not only maintaining, but enhancing the wonderful attributes of the breed.

Through my relationship with Bonita I have had the benefit of "interning" under many of the greats of the Maltese breeding and handling world. These include, Barbara Bergquist of Su-Le Kennels; Angie and Larry Stanberry of Divine Kennels, Tonia Holibaugh of Rhapsody Kennels, Jason Hoke and David Fitzpatrick. My local friends, Marie Gunderman of SaMarie's Tiny Treasures, Shirley White of Petite Maltese and Melody Rogers have been steadfast in sharing their knowledge and support in the areas whelping and grooming.

Barbara Bergquist offered me my first show bitch puppy, a pretty girl, who is now CH. Su-Le's Seminole Wind. Barbara's advice and common sense derived from her many years of breeding and show have provided immeasurable peace of mind to me. Joyce Watkins has also been unselfish in providing information and support to me in my endeavor. Happily, I acquired a Risque daughter from Bonita, CH. Marcris Risque' Rumor, whom I adore. Most of my foundation stock has come from my now wonderful friends and mentors, Angie and Larry Stanberry. They have entrusted me with four wonderful dogs, all of whom made their debuts in the ring with Tonia Holibaugh. She finished CH Divines Rumored Mystique, CH Divine's Delightfully Indecent and CH Divine's Mystique Masterpiece last year and put some very valuable points on Ch Divine's Indecent Southern Scoundrel who was also shown by his co-owner and breeder Angie Stanberry. "Rhett" was beautifully handled and finished by Sheila Meyers at the Florida Specialty this September. These wonderful Maltese will continue the line that has so rightfully established the Stanberry's as AMA's top breeders and produced the #1 Maltese in the country for the year 2000. Larry and Angie welcomed me into their home and their life. They are an invaluable resource and I will strive to make them glad that they have trusted me to protect and contribute to the line they have produced with blood, sweat, tears and love. Tonia Holibaugh has been a patient and understanding friend and handler, who has provided advice and graciously accepted me into her sphere. Tonia has also trusted me with a little girl from her kennel to join the ladies at Mystique, a Thriller daughter, CH Rhapsody's Absolutely Thrilling. Watch for "Abby's" and Mystique's own "Destiny's", Mystique's Destined To Be Indecent, puppies next year in 2003.

I intend to be diligent as my program develops to produce sound, well balanced, proportioned, affectionate and pretty Maltese, with a strict adherence to the AKC standard and AMA ethical guidelines. Hopefully, I will show my appreciation to these people who have preceded me by devoting time, energy and money into producing the "perfect Maltese".

It's a Family Affair here at Mystique ...


Judge: Mr. Eugene Blake, Handler: Maria Bates,
Proud Mom: Susan Bates and Happy Puppy: Master