For a cat who lived his life front and center, it is distressing not to be able to find a photo that does him justice. Not as distressing as saying good-bye though, and sadly, that was the story of today. Though all of us loved this quintessential orange-marmalade sweetie of a cat, today was hardest for Westi. Not wanting to part with him when they left the mountain to begin life in their own home, Westi and Mike have been Barney’s guardians for the last several years. What does it say that they could part with us but not with him? I like to think it says that Barney was one special cat.
From pound kitty to unsuccessful “companion cat” for Gene Miller (the “Horton” stage of his life and it turned out Gene didn’t like cats), Barney came to us to be a barn kitty. But his new name was only a nod to this intent; he lasted a night or two in the barn before we broke down and moved him into the house. A sociable and adaptable guy, Barney was as solid as it gets, physically and emotionally. He was equally at home in the city and the woods, and I expect he’ll do fine wherever he goes next. Good-bye Barney. Thanks for sharing our lives.
A photo of my two babies (look at their vivid stripes!). They both charmed my life (and many others) and there will be a bright orange void on my duvet tonight. Thanks for your help today. It would have been much harder alone.
Okay – the picture is adorable and funny all in one but the text is not what I was expecting to read about this morning. As I am getting ready for work, I now have mascara and make-up running down my face due to the tears I am experiencing. I am so sorry about the orange void that you are experiencing Westi. That kind of loss is a big hurt to the heart!
Love you and I have to go because I think I need to spend a few minutes hugging on the “boys” today before leaving for work. I am thinking of you.
I am so sorry! I know you are hurting. Wes, you
were worried about him when I talked to you and
evidently the vet visit proved right. I do think
I might have a good photo of him. I took photos
of Jasmine when a baby and I think Barney is in
them. I will look. Is that Jasmine? Seems to big but I couldn’t place who else it would be. love
you all lots!
Thanks for the love. The other kitty is little Kiely. Another loss that breaks the heart.
That poor Barny. I’d say his full name but I think I’d run out of space. No matter how sad it was, I still couldn’t help but laugh when I heard Aunt Laura ‘broke down’ and couldn’t keep him in the barn. You must feel pretty bad Westi. I would if Peanut or Starlit died. Few! I hurt thinking about. Good thing they still have a while to go.
Hope you feel better Westi!!!!!
Laura, the tenderness in your eulogies – the manner in which you remember the unique little individuals that found a place in your home and heart – really, so nice. I’m sorry for Westi – I know the great void these absences create.