NEWS TO SHARE . . . SOME HAPPY, SOME SAD

Getting the sad news out of the way first, I'm sorry to say that my 22+ year-old cat has gone to live with Jesus. "Pup", as we affectionately called him, came to live with us in 1990. He had been abandoned by his owners when they moved, and he quickly became attached to my daughter, Ryanne, and me . . . or perhaps it was the Cat Chow and fresh water that he loved so much. At any rate, we took him in and turned a loud and crabby Tom cat into the most lovable creature you can imagine. We took him to the vet to have him neutered, and the vet estimated he was AT LEAST 3 years old, based on his size and teeth. Over the years, Pup got to know at least 6 different homes that I can remember, yet he remained loyal and loving through all the upheavals.

I married again in 1998, to my current husband, JC, and Pup came along for the ride. JC, however, is horribly allergic to cats, so Pup was relegated from the house and his favorite litter box to the great outdoors. He never seemed to wander too far and would always come running whenever we stepped outside. He loved everyone and was the best lap kitty you could possibly want. He got along great with our Greyhounds, even though many Greyhounds are not "cat friendly", due to their chase instinct. Pup, however, nuzzled and snuggled with Max and Mini, just like he was their best buddy.

For the past 10 years or so, I found myself wondering if this would be Pup's last Christmas or summer or whatever occasion, but he was like the Energizer Bunny . . . he just kept going and going and . . . well, you get the picture. It makes me very sad to know that he won't be running up to me when I walk out into the backyard and disturbing our neighbors with his VERY loud "I'm hungry" meow. He was such a good little friend, and I like to think he is in Heaven, with my dear mother and all of my other loved ones and pets that are on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, waiting for me.

Pup and Hunter, enjoying some snuggle time!




Mini, sharing her bed with Pup!





Last but not least, I did mention some good news, as well. Today I am celebrating my 51st birthday! I'm thankful to be alive, I'm thankful to be fairly healthy, and I'm thankful that God has blessed me with wonderful friends and family to share my life with. I look at every day as a gift, better than any birthday gift I could receive.

Love to all of you!