Sol

It was May of 2000. I was standing in front of the office in Olympia, WA when one of my staff members asked if anyone could take in a kitten “for a few weeks.” I remember the white star on his nose, and I couldn’t say no. I took Sol in with the thought that it would only be a month and then he would go back to his home. Then I fell in love with the little guy, and I really hoped he would get to stay with me. Thankfully, we got to spend over 18 years together. 

He was a dog-like cat in that he loved being around people, belly rubs, and eating. 

He enjoyed being around people, including kids. I think of all of the little ones (now mostly grown) who got to love on him even if only for a visit - Cyrus, Anja, Kaia, Lucas, Grant, Miss S, Mr. C, Lil S. 

One thing he hated was the vet. When he was a year old, the vet said she was going to have to anesthetize him in order to do his exam. I found a different vet that was better with feisty cats. A few vets and states later, we've especially loved our most recent vet clinic and all of the staff. The last three times I had to take him in, the staff commented that they knew he wasn’t feeling well because they were able to see him (versus him being covered by a towel to keep him calm).

16 Years, 6 Months, 6 Days

This morning I found you asleep for the final time. You were still purring when I said a final goodnight. Yesterday you showed me you were done. If you made it to this morning, I was going to take you to the vet. But, you went on your own terms.

Karl’s favorite memory of you will always be coming around the side of the house and seeing you hanging on to the edge of the bathroom window with your back paws scraping frantically for a hold on the stucco.

My mom’s favorite memory is of how sweet you were and kept her company after her eye surgery when she recuperated in the “Cats’ room” at our house in Scottsdale.

You were a cuddler, a climber, and an escape artist. If you could get to a higher perch, you wanted to be there. If there was another door leading closer to outside, you had to be there scratching and meowing for a release.

You moved with me six times and were the only pet I’ve named by myself (partially inspired by a band that will not be named here and a Tori Amos song).

Your eyes were the prettiest green.

Opito, Joopitr, Jupiter.

Our solar system is lonelier without you.

You were loved and will be missed dearly.

3 July 2000 - 9 January 2017

Blogging (Life) Obstacles ... and SMASHING Them

I originally started this blog when Karl and I were in the initial planning phase of moving to Minnesota. That reality feels so removed from where I am today. I'm sitting at a messy table (same one where this blog started) in a different room in a different state. It's a gorgeous November day, unusually warm for Minnesota standards (70 degrees!!) Ok. I had to relocate to our back deck. I knew it was nice out, but wow!! The 3 kiddos are all napping. It’s bliss.