November 9th 2008 8:42 am
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My kindred spirit Darcy joined me at the Bridge on Thursday night. Momma didn't find out until Friday morning, and she changed my main picture to honor my friend, but she hasn't been able to type for me. She's still having a hard time typing through the tears and has had to stop and save this diary entry several times while she cries.
Darcy's crossing has brought up so many bittersweet memories for Momma. Darcy and I had so much in common. We were both diagnosed with the same type of GI lymphoma around the same time. We both were on the same treatment and both fought the cancer long and hard. We were even the same age when we crossed -- both born in the summer and crossing as winter approached.
We were also both lucky enough to have Mommas who loved us so deeply, who were willing to fight for us, who were strong for us, who made sacrifices for us, and who - when we were too weak to fight any longer - gave us the greatest gift of a peaceful crossing. When it was time, both of our Mommas held us in their arms, told us how much they loved us, sang "You Are My Sunshine" (badly to their ears, but sweet music to ours), and cried when our spirits left our mortal bodies.
Now Darcy is here with me and the other angel kitties at the Rainbow Bridge, waiting for the day when we will be reunited with our humans. We want our Mommas to know that we love them and thank them for everything they did for us. And we want them to remember that even on the cloudiest day or the darkest night, although you can't see it, the sun is still shining. And one day, the clouds will part, a new day will dawn, and you'll see the sun again.
October 30th 2008 9:28 pm
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Was it Halloween or was it the night before? Momma can't remember exactly, but she remembers her friend's young daughter dressed as a princess and playing with me and she thinks it was my first night in my forever home.
Is it just a coincidence then, that the kittens I sent to Momma are Halloween colors - one orange and one black? Could be . . . or not . . .
October 29th 2008 8:53 pm
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Before we discovered Catster, Momma and I joined an online support group for folks coping with feline lymphoma. There we met Darcy and his Mom, our kindred spirits. Darcy's Mom loves Jane Austen as much as Momma does. Darcy has the same type of lymphoma I had, was diagnosed just 2 months after I was, and was even on the same treatment as me. But unlike me, Darcy is still fighting the good fight. It's been over three years since he was diagnosed! Three years!!! But Darcy has been under the weather lately and needs purrs. He's running a fever and the vet thinks he has a virus. Cats on chemo have a hard time fighting off infections, so I'm worried about my friend. His Mom is also sick with pneumonia and is using all of her energy to care for Darcy. If you can, please say a purr for my friend Darcy and his Mom. They're not on Catster, but they're in my thoughts and prayers.
October 13th 2008 10:07 am
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It's that time of the year again. There's a chill in the air; the leaves are changing into beautiful shades of orange, red, and gold; and once more we are reminded of our own mortality.
Last year on Catster, it was a season of sorrow as many of our friends made their journey to the Rainbow Bridge. Tomorrow it will be one year since my dear friend Amelia crossed over. I invite all of her friends to join me in honoring her memory with a photo stroll. Please tag the photo "4Amelia" so her Meowmy can see the love we still have for Beloved Angel Amelia.
September 28th 2008 6:47 am
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Beautiful Catsy, cousin to Hazel Lucy and friend to many, has made the journey to Rainbow Bridge. I wish her family could see how beautiful she looks. Her fur has grown back, radiant and silky (at least it looks silky -- I didn't dare try to touch it. She's still the same old Catsy. It will take a little while for her to adjust to her new environment and to believe that she is really and truly safe forever.)
My heart goes out to her family who will miss their beautiful, grumpy girl.
September 10th 2008 9:47 pm
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*Flies in, bows his head, offers a silent prayer for those who lost their lives on 9/11 and those left behind who still grieve, wipes away a tear with a little white paw, flies out again*
August 31st 2008 2:31 pm
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Doesn't anyone like pirates anymore? I started a thread in the forums because I was hoping that other folks would want a pirate flag rosette too. I thought for sure all of Morgan the Pirate Gato's friends would want a pirate flag to send him for his birthday. I thought at least some kitties would be looking forward to International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Was I wrong?
If you'd like to see a pirate flag rosette for September, please show your support here:
http://www.catster.com/forums/Plus_Informational/thread/552262
Or if you don't have Plus, you can pmail HQ.
August 8th 2008 7:27 pm
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Dear sweet Ashley has journeyed to the Rainbow Bridge. He fought so bravely, for so long. Now he is healthy and whole again.
Purrs of comfort for his family.
August 2nd 2008 8:35 pm
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Ashley's Mom has posted in his diary that it is decision time. She needs some quiet time with Ashley, so instead of pmailing her, please post your support here:
http://www.catster.com/forums/When_its_Time_to_Say_Goodbye/thread/545602
Ashley's beloved Baby-G has started a candle page for him at:
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=Ash
The lovely Angel Sydney Rose has made a beautiful kimi to honor Ashley. If you choose to use it, please tag it 4Ash so Ashley's Mom can see the love and support in a photo stroll:
http://www.catster.com/cats/427259/photo/3847537
If you need me, I'll be with Ashley -- perched on top of his cuddle cup watching over him or wandering his house when he needs a private moment with his Mom.
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Please also say a purr for Briana's friend Liberty who has a massive infection and is in renal failure.
July 6th 2008 4:06 pm
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If you live in Massachusetts, please read Briana's diary for important information for all animal lovers.
http://www.catster.com/cats/338402#diary
June 22nd 2008 2:09 am
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When I was diagnosed with lymphoma, Momma joined a Yahoo! support group. The folks there were wonderful and Momma made friends with some local members and they all meet for lunch once a month.
Well, today they met at A.'s house and Momma got to meet Taz, Zoe, and Zee. Zee has a different type of lymphoma than I had, but he has the same oncologist that I did. His Mom was the one who suggested to Momma that we see Dr. T all the time. (Our original oncologist left and we were being shuffled back and forth between the two who remained.) I'm so glad Momma listened to her, because I loved Dr. T. even if she did poke and prod me all the time.
I'm purring that Zee will stay strong and keep fighting the cancer.
June 13th 2008 5:36 am
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Let me start off by saying a big THANK YOU! to Hazel Lucy and her Mom for coordinating the rescue operation for Tess, Aldo, and Noelle.
As I was writing to them this morning, it struck me that maybe it's not a bad thing that we don't know for certain what happened to Tess. It seems as though one of the workers took her and doesn't want to give her back. Not very nice for those of us who want to know, but good for Tess if she found someone who loves her so much that they'll do anything to keep her.
It's frustrating not knowing for certain what happened, but maybe that's a good thing. Maybe we shouldn't have closure. Laurel's passing and the effects it had on her furkids were a real wakeup call for many folks. They realized that they needed to have a plan in place so if anything happened to them, their furkids wouldn't end up at the pound.
It was amazing the way folks from Catster and Dogster came together to rescue a dog and some cats they didn't even know. Noelle and Aldo were rescued and the stray Gorgeous and her unborn kits were saved as well. But despite all our best efforts, we still aren't sure what happened to Tess. I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
Life is uncertain. You never know when your time will come. But you know your time WILL come someday and you need to prepare for it. We may not have been able to get closure for Tess, but our humans can ensure that the same thing doesn't happen to us. May Tess' unknown fate be a lesson to us all. Let this lesson be her legacy.
June 5th 2008 5:16 pm
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Thanks everyone who has been purring for little Hamlet. We're so relieved that the vet didn't find anything to worry about with his heart.
Sorry we haven't answered our pmail or thanked everyone for rosies. Momma had minor surgery yesterday that hurt more than she thought it would. Actually, I think the tape hurts more the wound does -MOL! So we're all fine and will try to answer our pmail this weekend.
June 2nd 2008 7:44 am
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I'm so glad I found Hamlet for Momma. She loves him so much. The little orange lovebug is 4 months old today. They grow up so fast!
Tomorrow Hamlet has to go for an ultrasound of his heart. Abby and I are going with him and plan on spending the whole day. If you have a guardian angel-related emergency, you can find us there. Hopefully, no one else will need us, and we'll still be purring for all the sick kitties. I'm teaching Hamlet how to put his purrs to good use. He already has a heart full of love, he just doesn't understand the concept of illness or death. I wish we could all be so blissfully unaware.
June 1st 2008 9:47 pm
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I can't believe I was a DDP again! Briana is taking it much better this time. She even posted a poem for me in her diary. (Don't worry -- she didn't write it herself. MOL!)
Briana had a great idea and changed her music to "Tessie" in honor of sweet Tess who is still unaccounted for. (I copied Briana.)
Little Hamlet goes Tuesday for the ultrasound on his heart. I wonder if they're going to have to shave his chest? I hope not. All the other kits on the playground will make fun of him if he has any "manscaping" done. Please keep the little orange lovebug in your purrs. And if you want to hear him purr, hop over to his page and have a listen to his Voki. He is loud enough to hear over the music on his page, but you might want to pause the music anyway because it's annoying. MOL!
May 29th 2008 10:29 pm
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I've been a very busy angel the past couple of days. On Wednesday morning I had to accompany Arnold P. to the vet for his rabies vaccination. Those are no fun, but it beats the alternative. (My Dogster pal Dayzee is in quarantine for 10 days after a run-in with a raccoon. I flew over to visit her this afternoon. )
After Arnold's vet visit, I shot over to the West Coast to watch over my newest guardee Cuddles while he went under for the Big Snip. He was very brave and I'm so proud of him. I'm so glad his Meowmy took my advice and got herself an orange lovebug.
Before I headed back East, I flew by to check on Majicou and the rest of Shelby's family. I swear that kitty gets cuter every time I see him!
After that , it was back home to go to the vet with Momma and Hamlet. Momma couldn't believe Hamlet was purring in his carrier on the way to the vet. He is such a happy boy. Unfortunately, he still has a heart murmur. It may be nothing, but of course Momma is worried because that's what Mommas do -- they worry. It's in their job description or something. So Hamlet is going in on Tuesday for an ultrasound to make sure there are no defects in his heart. Please purr that the little orange boy is fine. He's active and seems healthy enough, but you can't always tell from the outside, what's going on inside.
Today was Briana's 10th birthday. Bobcat did everything he could to torment her for being a senior citizen now. (That's what older brothers do -- torment younger sisters.) She was miffed at first, and was really upset that I was a DDP today. She's been hoping to be a DDP ever since Jack Matt was picked a few weeks ago. I think it's just jealousy. It's not like she says anything important in her diary -- she does nothing but complain. Maybe she should change the title of her diary from "Mewsings of a Red-headed Stepkitten" to "Rantings of a Gray Rodent." After all, she can't claim to be a kitten anymore. But don't tell her I said that - I wouldn't want to upset her again.
Tomorrow I'm flying South again to watch Arnold P. have his teeth cleaned. In the meantime, if you're looking for me I'll be with my guardee Christopher and his family.
Thanks Catster for choosing me to be a DDP. Bobcat sure appreciated your timing, but Briana didn't!
May 26th 2008 12:39 pm
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Someone recently commented on how these are sad times on Catster. Simba's and Cybil's crossings are certainly sad for their family and friends and we send our sympathies to them and anyone else coping with the loss of a beloved kitty.
The passing of Catster Mom Laurel was shocking to so many folks, but hopefully will serve as a wakeup call to other Moms and Dads. Aldo and Noelle have been rescued, but Tess is still missing. We are purring that she is found soon, safe and sound. The Catster Community has really pulled together and rallied around this family, and that is very encouraging and uplifting. Hazel Lucy rocks! So these are sad times, but there is also hope.
The saddest time for Momma was October 2007 through January 2008. It started with the crossing of beloved Amelia, followed shortly after by Sydney Rose.
November saw many loses, but the most devastating was Buddie's followed 3 days later by his sister McKenna. By that time, my health was failing, although Momma didn't give up hope. We purred that the losses were over and that December would be a better month than November had been.
Alas! It wasn't meant to be. December started with the crossing of Wally, Sydney Rose's brother. An ultrasound showed I had fluids in my abdomen, but we held out hope that it was something treatable. Unfortunately, on the 14th I was diagnosed with FIP and all hope was gone. On the 15th, my Catster twin Jesebell crossed to the Bridge, and 2 days later on the 17th, it was my time to cross. I wasn't alone though. Echo and Tiki crossed the same day as me.
The New Year didn't bring any better news. My fellow cancer fighter Teddy lost his battle on the 4th. On the 9th, Dirty White Boi made the journey. Exactly one month after my crossing, I was joined at the Bridge by my dear friend Shelby. Then on the 24th, cancer claimed another friend Obi Wan Cat Nobi.
I know there were many more losses during this difficult time, but those are the ones that stand out to me at the moment. So much loss. But whenever one door closes, another one opens, and many families have since welcomed new kitties.:
Amelia's family welcomed Francis and Matthew.
Sydney Rose and Wally's family welcomed Teddy (named after Angel Teddy).
Buddie and McKenna's family welcomed Victor Gibbs and Jason Cash.
Jesebell's family welcomed Cookie Monster.
Shelby's family adopted Majicou.
And Momma adopted Hamlet and Jack Matthew Cash (named after Matthew and Jason Cash, and our guardian angel Black Jack.)
So the circle of life continues. I purr that other families who have recently suffered losses will be able to open their hearts and love again. There are so many kitties in need of loving homes.
May 22nd 2008 6:16 am
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Poor Momma! The boys have figured out how to break into her closet. It has sliding doors that just hang down from above (no track on the bottom) and they've figured out how to push them aside and get in. This morning, Momma found her roll of Sticky Paws and started applying it around the edges of both doors. Well, Hamlet came over and started chewing on the roll! MOL! Momma's a wee bit discouraged.
It reminds her of how I used to break into her old closet. She had a cheap vinyl accordion folding door. It had a magnet at the bottom to keep it shut tight, but that was no match for my mighty moose muscles! So then Grandpa attached a hook and eye lock about halfway down the door so I couldn't just pull open the bottom and get in. It worked for about 2 days, then one morning Momma got her clothes out of the closet while I was watching. I saw how she hooked the lock. I ran over, jumped up, batted the hook open on my first try, and was in the closet in less than 2 seconds! MOL. Grandpa installed a real door after that.
May 14th 2008 4:17 pm
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*puts little white paw over his face and shakes his head*
This afternoon when Momma went out to get the mail, she made sure Hamlet didn't sneak out. He was sleeping on the couch. When she came back inside, Hamlet was waiting and escaped AGAIN!
Naughty boy. Momma's going to have to start locking him in the bedroom every time she leaves the condo.
May 14th 2008 6:57 am
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This morning Momma was on Catster reading an interview with Abby. Momma was thinking how great it is that Abby is Hamlet's guardian angel, when she realized she hadn't seen Hamlet in a while. She ran around the condo calling for him, but she couldn't find him. Then she remembered that when she took the trash out this morning, Hamlet had tried to escape. Momma ran out into the hallway and upstairs and found Hamlet halfway up the staircase. Luckily no one had come in or out of the building or he might have gotten outside and been hit by a car or eaten by coyotes.
Thank you, Abby, for watching over Momma's naughty little lovebug and alerting Momma to his disappearance.
May 11th 2008 4:39 pm
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Well, it's Momma's first Mother's Day without me, but she's doing OK. The kittens are keeping her busy. That Jack is a handful!
My friend Alfie posted a link to a picture that says, "No Gift To Your Mother, Can Ever Equal Her Gift To You - Life!" Well, it's true. Momma might not be my birth mother, but she gave me life by adopting me and caring for me all those years -- especially for the last 29 months after I was diagnosed with cancer. Without her love and care, I would have died.
Thank you, Momma. I love you forever!
May 5th 2008 7:35 pm
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Dear Isaac has joined us at the Bridge. He battled bladder cancer like a true fighter, but he couldn't continue to fight forever. Now he is at peace and free from pain. We send our love and purrs to his staff.
I just discovered that Isaac's birthday is January 18th . . . the same as Jack Matthew Cash! I don't know if Jack will grow up to be a queen, but he likes using Briana's pink litter box.
April 29th 2008 8:16 am
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Jack Matt and Hamlet went to the vet this morning for their booster shots. Hamlet has to go back in one month for his last set.
Jack was inquisitive and kept trying to explore the exam room. He was examining the sink when all of a sudden the faucet turned on and he got his head and shoulders all wet! I guess they have a motion detector that turns on the water. *giggles* He tried again a little while later and got wet again! The vet said he wasn't too bright because he didn't learn his lesson. Then, the third time, he stayed low and was able too get into the sink without turning on the faucet. So he's not stupid -- just determined. Hamlet tried once and when the water came on he shot across the counter so fast he didn't get wet at all! MOL.
When the vet tech brought in the needles for the vaccination, Jack knew what they were for and backed away. The vet tried to get him to play with plunger end of it, but Jack wasn't buying it, so the vet decided he was smart after all. They put down food for the boys to eat to distract them while they got the shot. Hamlet happily ate away while he got his shot, but Jack didn't fall for that either and the vet tech had to hold him still while the vet gave him the shot.
Hamlet was purring while the vet was trying to listen to his heart and so the vet kept putting his finger over Hamlet's nose. But as soon as he moved it, Hamlet would start purring again. It turns out that Hamlet has a high pitched heart murmur. The vet said that some kittens have them and they go away. We're hoping that will be the case with Hamlet. Otherwise, he may have to have an ultrasound to figure out what's going on.
Please say a purr for the little orange boy. Momma loves him so and doesn't want anything bad to happen to him.
April 18th 2008 4:56 am
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Today little Jack Matthew Cash is 3 months old. Momma read somewhere that their eye color is usually set by 3 months, so hopefully he'll keep his pretty light eye color.
Hamlet went to the vet yesterday because he's been vomiting. The vet said his heart and lungs sounded good but he's a little skinny, and she thinks the vomiting and round belly may be from a parasite. She gave him a new dewormer. Momma also has to water down his canned food to make it easier for him to eat. When he eats, it looks like he's trying to nurse. He purrs, and kneads, and slurps at his food and usually ends up with most of it on his face. Hopefully watering it down will make him eat more and grow big and strong.
April 17th 2008 4:08 am
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It's hard to believe it's been 4 months since I crossed. It seems like just yesterday that Momma held me in her arms.
April 12th 2008 3:15 pm
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Q. What do you call an orange lovebug?
A. I don't know either, but as soon as Momma decides and takes pictures, you'll all get to meet Momma's orange lovebug!
That's right, Momma's adopted another boy. He's about 10 weeks old, he's orange, he's sweet, and so far, he's nameless. Well, his shelter name was McBain and his foster name was Peanut Butter, but those just won't do.
Thank you Buddie and Freddie and Tink and Shelby and anyone else who had a paw in helping Momma find the right one.
April 12th 2008 4:02 am
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The purring continues for Ashley, and now I have to purr for dear Simon as well. The cancer has taken over Simon's body and he can only make the best of his remaining days. That's all any of us can do - live and love. Lots of folks showed their love for Simon yesterday by changing their primary photo, even dear Ashley who is ill himself. I know Momma found comfort in all the support she received from Catsters during my illness and crossing. I hope Simon and Ashley's family are feeling the love as well.
On a bright note, Momma is going to look at 8-9 orange kittens this morning. Buddie, Shelby, Freddie, and Tink are going to help her find a kitten to be a playmate for Jack Matt and a lovebug for herself. Black Jack is needed to keep an eye on little Jack. He's a handful and still hasn't gotten over the sneezes. The vet said it's just a virus that has to run its course. We hope he beats this virus soon.
Sad purrs for Simon, healing purrs for Ashley, and hopeful purrs for Momma and the little orange lovebug.
April 8th 2008 9:06 am
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If you're looking for me, I'll be at Ashley's side, purring that he can pull through this latest setback.
Sending purrs of comfort to the family of United. The brave, sweet little boy has lost his fight against the dreaded FIP. He is healthy and whole again here at the Bridge.
April 7th 2008 7:58 pm
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Momma has a bad sinus infection, so she hasn't been going to work. She's OK if she's silent, but if she tries to talk, she has a coughing fit. Not good when you work with the public.
The first orange kitty turned out to be white with orange spots and already taken. The second one is "buff" which people have assured Momma means pale orange. No picture yet, but he was born the day after Jack Matt so Momma sent in a deposit on him. When Momma asked the person on the phone if he was a scaredy cat, she said he was shy when he was first brought in, but that now he was fine. I hope she's right, because if Momma drives an hour and a half to meet a scaredy cat, she's going to be ticked off.
Today a place closer posted that they have 5 orange boys available on Saturday, but of course Momma has to work. Work is EVIL!
I hope the little buff boy works out.
April 5th 2008 7:53 pm
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I sent Momma looking for kittens a couple of places today, but no luck. Then tonight we discover 4 new postings for orange kittens on Petfinder. FOUR!!!! Which normally would be great news, except Momma has to work tomorrow!!! Arggghhhh!!! Work is EVIL -- it keeps us from those we love, or those little orange lovebugs Momma would love if she could just get to them before they are adopted by someone else! It's enough to drive a cat mad! *drops to the ground and starts rolling around pulling his fur out* *sigh* I'm getting to be an even bigger drama queen than Briana. *gets up and brushes himself off* I really hope they don't all get adopted tomorrow or Monday. One is at the same shelter that Cash came from. It doesn't say outright what color he is, but his name is Marmalade. (Must be gray, if he were orange it would be Smokey MOL!) The other one is farther away, but he was born the day after Jack Matthew Cash! Practically twins!
Please say a purr that Momma finds her orange lovebug soon. She really missed her gray lovebug today.
(And I'm so spittin' mad and crazy I'm talking to myself. Instead of posting this in my diary in the first place, I pmailed it to myself!)
April 4th 2008 7:42 pm
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Darling little Jack Matt has been home for a week now, and I've been teaching him everything I know. It's all about survival of the cutest. The cuter you are, the more you can get away with! And Jack Matt sure is cute because he piddled next to Momma on the bed the first night and spilled a large glass of blue Gatorade all over her nightstand another night, but Momma hasn't sent him back! Even when a coworker pointed out that Jack is probably the reason her allergies are so bad, Momma still would never give him up. It was truly love at first sight.
Now Momma is looking for a brother for him so he can play with him instead of trying to get Momma to play all day long. Briana still hasn't officially been introduced to him, but I know she won't want to be his playmate! MOL! So the search goes on for another baby boy. Momma wants an orange tabby, but any lovebug will do.
March 28th 2008 3:47 pm
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He's home! Momma's working on his page now. She had to take video of him and then do frame captures to get a picture of him. He's constantly in motion.
So far, only a few hisses and growls from Briana through the bedroom door. *giggles*
March 28th 2008 10:56 am
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Momma just got a phone call from a good friend who has been trying to adopt a human baby for about a year now. She just got the news today that she's getting a boy! We're so happy for her! All of these angels floating around must be good luck! Thank you, my friends.
March 27th 2008 8:51 pm
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Friday is the big day -- the kitten is coming home! Momma is leaving work early to get him. A bunch of us angel kitties are flying down to meet him and accompany him to his forever home. Hopefully, he'll have his own Catster page by 5:00 p.m. Catster time. Hooray!
To all the angels coming with us: Be sure to bring some extra Angel Dust so we can sprinkle the other inmates so they can all find forever homes.
To all the angels staying behind: Please take extra care of all the sick kitties today. I would feel awful if something bad happened while we were all off escorting Momma's kitten.
To all the sick kitties: STAY HEALTHY AND STAY WHERE YOU ARE!! No, you can't join us if you become angels, so don't even think about it! I'm looking at you, Tyler. I mean it. No crossing for you!
*swoops down and gives Tyler a gentle halo bonk*
I just want you to get well, my friend.
And just for the record, the kitten's shelter name is "Cash" but Momma's going to give him a new name when he comes home. She'll keep Cash for a middle name, but she already has a new name picked out. I wish I could tell you what it is, but it's a surprise. He's going to have so many nicknames too! He already has at least three, like . . . *slaps little white paws over his mouth* Oops! I almost gave it away!
March 26th 2008 12:38 pm
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Momma went to look at the shelter kitten named "Cash" today. He's an adorable 2-month-old black kitten -- and he's going to be ours! He's having the Big Snip tomorrow and can come home sometime after that. Right now Momma's scheduled to pick him up on Sunday, but she's going to see if she can get out of work early on Friday and get him then. The poor little fellow was sneezing, but was alert and playful. Please purr that he will feel better soon, will have an easy time with his neutering tomorrow, and will be in his forever home sooner rather than later!
March 26th 2008 8:13 am
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Momma was on vacation, so I didn't get to write much, but now she's back and the kitten search resumes. A local shelter has a kitten named "Cash" available. Could it be a sign from my pal Buddie? He sent Jason Cash to his parents.
I was very upset to discover that dear Dexter had crossed over. His beautiful sister Molly just crossed in January, and I'm so sad for their family. Sending purrs of comfort to them at this difficult time.
My handsome guardee Christopher is doing much better. The purrs have really helped. Thank you everyone who purred for him.
Now my friend Tyler - Mr Boombastic needs serious purrs. He was rushed to the ER last night vomiting red stuff. Please purr that the vet can save him.
I'll keep you posted on the kitten search.
March 17th 2008 7:34 pm
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*sigh* The kittens were really cute, but they weren't the sharpest knives in the drawer. They were afraid of Momma and hid. Even though their mother came right up to Momma to be petted. Even though their foster mother tried to bribe them with num-nums. Even though they had 3 angel kitties there telling them how lucky they would be to have Momma for their adoptive mother. They were still too afraid. It's such a shame because they were really cute. But I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
I'm going to keep looking though. After all, it is kitten season. I think I need to find younger kittens next time. These ones were almost as big as Briana and probably would have been able to take her in a fight. I'm trying to be a nice brother and at least give her a chance of laying down the law with the new kittens.
Now I'm off to check in on sweet little Christopher. Please keep purring for him.
March 17th 2008 4:56 pm
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Momma's leaving in a little while to go meet the kittens. I'm so nervous I have butterflies in my tummy. If Ashley wasn't a newly married man, I'd drop by and ask him what to with these butterflies. He would know.
OK, I have my wingmen Buddie and Shelby with me. Everything is going to be fine. Deep breath . . . wish us luck!
March 17th 2008 8:06 am
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HAPPY EVACUATION DAY!!!!
I know, I know, you're thinking I'm conFOOsed, but I'm not. Here in Boston, March 17th is Evacuation Day. On this date in 1776, during the Revolutionary War, St. Patrick drove the British from the City of Boston, so every year we dress in green and eat corned beef and cabbage to celebrate. At least that's what I heard.
Today also happens to be the 3 month anniversary of my crossing. It's hard to believe I've been gone a quarter of a year. Momma's pretty sad because she's doing Spring Cleaning and keeps finding old vet bills and prescription receipts for me. She also found my cow mouse under the couch, so that's going in my keepsake box.
Today I'm a Daily Diary Pick, but I know it's not because of boring old me, but because of the kittens! Tonight Momma is going to meet a pair of six-month-old brothers she might adopt. This is the FOURTH time since my crossing that I've tried to send her a new love, but the other times didn't work out. (Once it was Momma's fault for waiting too long, but the other times it was the kitties fault for not being friendly enough.) We know one of the kittens is really shy, but the other one is supposed to be shy at first then playful and friendly. He needs to put on the charm tonight so Momma will adopt both of them. I've called in the Big Guns for help. Buddie and Shelby both found new kitties for their Mommas to love, so I've asked them to help me with the kittens tonight. Keep your paws crossed for us.
Also, if you could spare some purrs for my guardee Christopher, I'd really appreciate it. This sweet little fella is blind from birth and was abandoned outside, alone and afraid. He was lucky enough to be found and adopted by the best family a cat could ask for, but he's still not thriving like he should be. He has a sinus infection, has no energy, and won't eat. Please purr for his recovery.
March 16th 2008 6:54 am
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Wow! I've been so busy lately and Momma hasn't been online enough for me to keep up with all my friends.
Poor little Christopher is still fighting a sinus infection, so I've been visiting him. My brother Bobcat had his teeth cleaned on Friday and needed to have 4 teeth pulled! I was there with him during the procedure and recovery. He's home now, but I have to keep flying back to check on him because Not-the-Momma isn't a very good nurse. Momma wanted to go take care of him herself, but she needs to clean the house and spend some quality time with Briana.
Today, Momma's supposed to be going to meet the kittens she might adopt. I asked Buddie to come with me to help out. He did such a great job finding new kitties for his folks, I'm hoping he can help me do the same for my Momma.
I'm so happy that my dear Ashley and Baby-G eloped! I know a lot of folks were hoping to attend their wedding, but I think it's better this way. Life is too short to waste time planning for "that special moment" and worrying that something won't be perfect. The best moments in life are the everyday miracles, the unplanned and unexpected moments when everything just falls into place and you feel peace and love. I'm hoping Ashley and Baby-G share many of those special moments together and cherish every one.
Lots of love,
Rufus
***Update***
Momma heard back from the foster mother. She's sick, so Momma is going to meet the kittens tomorrow night instead of today. Tomorrow is also the three month anniversary of my crossing. I hope Momma won't be too sad about losing me and will realize it's time to move on and love again. I also hope these kittens are smart enough to recognize a good thing when they see it. I'll be there whispering to them and encouraging them to be friendly to Momma and not afraid of her. Please keep your paws crossed for us.
March 13th 2008 2:54 pm
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Momma's disappointed because the cute black kitten she thought she might be adopting has already been taken. She's going on Sunday to look at 2 other kitties, but they're both shy, so she doesn't think they'll be a good fit. *sigh*
I'll let you know how it goes.
Please keep my brother Bob in your purrs. He's getting his teeth cleaned tomorrow. My guardee Christopher also needs extra purrs. He's fighting off a bad upper respiratory infection.
March 2nd 2008 6:39 pm
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Momma filled out the adoption application. Squeal! She hasn't met the cats yet, but the shelter person told her one is outgoing and the other is shy. Momma will have to see when she meets them. Keep your paws crossed that Momma will pass the adoption process. She's a little worried that they won't let her adopt because I had FIP.
March 2nd 2008 6:03 am
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Momma just pmailed a shelter about adopting a pair of kittens. One is really cute and the other is kind of cute. MOL! I hope it all works out and that they are friendly and outgoing and respond to Momma and that the foster home will keep them until the end of the month when Momma gets back from vacation.
February 14th 2008 8:51 pm
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I'm happy to introduce everyone to my newest guardee. His name is Christopher and I'm sure many of you know his loving family. Black Jack was my guardian angel and now I'm honored to be the guardian angel for Christopher. Isn't he just the cutest thing??!!
January 24th 2008 8:15 pm
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Sweetest Molly crossed on the 22nd and dearest Obi-wan crossed on the 24th. We are beyond sad. Shelby, Molly, and Obi-wan in one week? It's unbearable. I've been trying to pull Momma out of her funk and almost had her convinced that she should get another cat, but every time another dear friend crosses, it's another blow to her heart. She doesn't want to make the commitment to another cat and have to go through the heartache of losing one of us again.
Please stay strong, my friends. I love you and I want you to be happy and healthy.
January 17th 2008 7:25 pm
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Today my dear, sweet friend Shelby joined me at the Bridge. I am so sorry that he had to leave his loving parents, but he was welcomed here by many friends and family.
It's because of Shelby that Momma was able to channel my voice again. When I crossed one month ago today, Momma was so sad she lost the ability to type for me. My thoughts were always loving and my heart full of joy, but Momma was consumed by bitterness. Through it all, Shelby and his Mummy were there supporting us, and when his health started failing, we needed to return the favor. Love is a powerful thing, and our love for Shelby helped Momma overcome her bitterness.
Well, it's bittersweet that Shelby should cross on the one-month anniversary of my crossing. Momma has been sleeping on the couch since I crossed -- I spent my last day on the bed and it holds many sad memories for her. But tonight, Momma is going to make herself a big steaming cup of hot chocolate and go cry herself to sleep in her own bed. She needs to have herself a good cry. I think we all do.
*Shedding angel tears for dear Shelby and his family*
January 10th 2008 7:58 pm
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Momma got my ashes tonight. When I crossed they told her it would take 1-2 weeks. After 3 weeks she called and was told it was usually 3-4 weeks, but she could leave a message with the office that handles "final arrangements." They called back and left a message to expect my ashes between the 17th and 24th. Momma was upset that she might not have me back by the one-month anniversary of my crossing. It's been a stressful couple of days for her, so sorry that she hasn't been keeping up with my correspondence. I'll try to make her catch up on it this weekend. I miss you all and love you. I'm purring for my sick friends.
December 31st 2007 11:46 am
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Thank you to everyone who made Hazel Lucy Day a success. We're so happy Buddie is back!
I'm still purring for Shelby and his Mummy.
December 25th 2007 2:39 pm
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Before I crossed, I decided I wanted to do something nice to thank Hazel Lucy for everything she does for sick kitties and their families. I discovered that December 26th would be the one year anniversary of the Get Well Purr List. I contacted Ashlye about a possible photo honoring Hazel Lucy, and she suggested we include Buddie in the photo as well. So an idea was born.
Thank you, Ashlye, for making a beautiful photo for Buddie and Hazel Lucy.
Thanks to Momma's friend Jon for showing Momma how she could make one herself.
Thanks to my brother Bobcat for following through on my idea and contacting cats to participate.
Thanks to everyone who is participating. If you want to join in the celebration, you can find the pictures at:
http://s270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/Foorasa/HL3.jpg
http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u108/Adrycecil/GetWell.jpg
Most of all, thanks to Hazel Lucy for the Get Well Purr List and Buddie for Buddie's Well Wishers GANG Healing Rosettes. You are both loved very much here in Catsterland.
December 23rd 2007 1:24 pm
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My dear friend Shelby is having trouble breathing and his Mummy is very, very worried about him. Please keep him in your purrs. If you are looking for me, I'll be by his side.
December 20th 2007 8:55 pm
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Thank you for all of the purrs and rosies and prezzies and kind things you've been saying in the forums and groups. Momma has been too sad to channel my voice. I will thank you personally when Momma feels better. Please keep her in your purrs. I am still purring for all of the sick kitties in Catsterland.
December 17th 2007 7:24 pm
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Momma took today off of work to be with me, but I didn't want to do anything she wanted to do. She wanted to lie on the couch and watch Pride & Prejudice (total chick flick!). I wanted to hide in the cat condo or lie on the mat in the kitchen. We finally compromised and settled on the bed, but I wanted the whole bed and didn't share very well. I was wheezing and my legs were getting weaker. Momma kept showing me the cat carrier and I'd get a scared look in my eyes and try to get away. I fell off the bed 3 times trying to jump down and had an accident trying to use the litter box. Finally, a little bit before 5, Momma checked to see if I was dehydrated and my gums didn't look normal to her. When she tried to put me in the carrier, I didn't fight her.
This ER vet took one look at me and asked Momma what outcome she was expecting. She said she could run a bunch of expensive tests and try to stabilize me, but . . .
Momma asked if she could do a physical exam on me. When she did, she discovered I was jaundiced. It made Momma's decision easier. I had fluid in my tummy, most likely fluid in my lungs, and my liver was shutting down. More importantly, I just wasn't me anymore.
They took me away from Momma to put a catheter in my leg and they cut my nails! They had some nerve! Momma apologized to me when we were alone. She didn't know they would cut my nails. Momma held me and told me she loved me and reminded me about all the angels who were waiting for me. (She forgot to mention Bill!) Then the vet came in, and Momma held me in her arms and told me she loved me, and the vet gave me the injection and a few seconds later Momma felt all the tension leave my body and I actually felt lighter in her arms. For the last time, Momma looked at my beauty spot under my chin and my one pink toe on my ring finger, then she let the vet take my body away.
I was already gone -- running around on my strong legs, kicking around a football, and enjoying myself with all my friends at the Bridge. Black Jack's picture doesn't do him credit -- his coat is so glossy. Amelia is as beautiful as ever. Dear Freddie was there too with a surprise -- his brother Echo who also crossed today. Another new angel was there as well, Tiki, my friend KC's sister. I told her that Momma had promised me I would find the good Westpaw catnip growing in the catnip fields, so we're heading that way now. So any angels who want to meet us, that's where we'll be. ANGELS ONLY!!! The rest of you stay put! I'm talking to you Shelby and Athena and Teddy . . . This isn't good-bye, just see you later.
Angel Purrs and Halo Bonks,
Rufus
P.S. Will someone please tell Briana? I don't think she know yet . . . or she just doesn't care. Rodent!
December 16th 2007 9:00 pm
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Momma took a personal day from work tomorrow just to be with me. She can spend it answering all my pmail and thanking everyone for the rosies and prezzies as penance for giving everyone such a scare. She really wants me here for Christmas and she really wants my oncologist to be the one to help make the call when it's time. We trust Dr. T.
Momma loves me so much she's been afraid she wouldn't be able to let me go when it's time. She was afraid that she was letting what she wanted get in the way of what was best for me. We had a rough night Saturday and she didn't want to make me suffer longer just so she could have more time to say good-bye.
We had a restful afternoon today at Not-the-Momma's house and tomorrow is going to be all about me. We're going to have ourselves a good day we can cherish for the rough road ahead.
Sorry for the false alarm. Thanks for all the love and support.
December 16th 2007 10:34 am
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The ER vet couldn't hear any fluid in my lungs. She felt some in my belly and said it would be serious if it had accumulated again that fast. Momma asked her to try to drain it. They couldn't find any! The vet said that sometimes pockets of fluid form, so they probably were there from earlier and not something new. She told Momma I look great for a cat with 2 fatal diseases, and said she didn't think today was my day.
Momma couldn't really argue with that. She said she didn't want me dying on her at home, and the vet said she didn't think that was likely today. Just to prove my point, I ate food for the ER vet and even purred for her and it sounded normal. No whistling or gurgling.
So now we're over Not-the-Momma's house watching football. I'll answer my pmail later when Momma has had a chance to relax for a little bit.
Thanks for being here for us. Sorry for the false alarm. I love you all and I'm not ready to leave just yet.
December 16th 2007 6:01 am
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Momma's bringing me to the ER now in the middle of a terrible snow storm. We're going to pick up Not-the-Momma first so we can say our good-byes.
Please purr for Momma's safety and sanity. She loves me so and her heart is breaking.
Thanks for all your love and support.
December 15th 2007 9:00 pm
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My Catster twin Jesebell crossed to the Bridge today. She was so beautiful, as you might have guessed, and her Mommy loved her very much. I'm sorry to see her pass, even though I know it's not good-bye, but "see you later."
December 15th 2007 11:18 am
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My oncologist took 200 CCs of fluid from my abdomen. This time it was yellow -- another indicator of FIP. They gave me CCNU, a different chemo drug. Hopefully it will buy me enough time to make it through the holidays. Unless the vets are completely wrong about it being FIP, I'm beyond saving. It's going to be day-to-day from here on out.
Thanks for your support. Please pray for Momma. She needs it more than I do now.
December 15th 2007 9:51 am
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[Briana here. Rufus is at the vets now. They're removing fluid from his abdomen to make him more comfortable and will probably do another ultrasound of his tummy. He has lost another 1/2 pound since Tuesday and his oncologist is very concerned. They are going to give him a new chemo drug and pray for the best. If it is FIP it may help. If it isn't FIP, it could make him much, much worse.
We're at the crossroads here. Please purr for him.]
December 15th 2007 8:29 am
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The clinical pathologist emailed my oncologist late last night. She thinks it is FIP despite the negative blood test results. There's another test that costs over $200 that's more accurate and if it comes back positive we could be pretty sure, but if it were negative, we still couldn't rule out FIP.
The Internist thinks I could have a perforation in my gut causing the fluids. Surgery would cost $2,000 to $3,000. Momma can't afford to pay that, especially when I already have incurable cancer.
We could assume it's FIP and treat with a new chemo drug, but if it is the perforated gut, it could kill me.
We could do nothing and just make me comfortable until it's time. Momma wants me here for Christmas. She knows she's being selfish, but the oncologist doesn't think it's "time" just yet.
We're leaving now. We'll let you know.
December 14th 2007 4:41 pm
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The PCR test for FIP came back positive. My oncologist says it's 80% accurate. She's consulting with the clinical pathologist, but we probably won't hear until Monday.
My pancreas test wasn't quite normal either, but my oncologist isn't convinced that I have pancreatitis.
She said the treatment for FIP is immunosuppressive -- basically, the same as for the lymphoma, some type of chemo.
Momma thinks I look more emaciated today and I wouldn't eat my supper. She just gave me my appetite stimulant, so maybe that will help. Briana wouldn't eat either. FIP is contagious and almost always fatal, although you can be infected with the virus and not develop full-blown FIP. Momma's devastated. There's a chance the test is wrong, but it's a 1 in 5 chance -- not very good.
[UPDATE FROM BRIANA: I'm fine. Momma was freaking out, so she freaked me out. As soon as she left the room, I ate. Rufus has eaten a little bit but he's weak and his tummy looks distended. Momma is monitoring him to see if he needs to go to the ER. He put up a fight when she tried to put him in his carrier, so she relented and didn't take him yet. His oncologist will be in tomorrow, so they'll wait to talk to her if they can. Thanks for all the purrs . . . Rufus and Momma need them. Purrs, Briana]
December 13th 2007 8:47 pm
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We had a bad snow storm here today so Momma came home from work early. Yay! But my oncologist left early too, so Momma didn't get to talk to her. I'm sure she would have called if she had gotten the test results back, so there's not much to report.
December 12th 2007 5:37 pm
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So the neurologist thinks my leg weakness is caused by either the cancer or the long-term prednisone use. We're cutting back on my prednisone from 2 times a day to once a day.
Momma hasn't actually talked to my oncologist. Maybe tomorrow. They still don't have the other test results.
Momma doesn't want to put me through any more tests. Right now she's thinking we should wait for these test results and try a new chemo after Christmas and hope I don't get sick from it.
I complained all the way to the vet and all the way home. At least I have some energy back, but I'm not a happy camper.
December 11th 2007 1:11 pm
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I didn't want to go to the vet today, but it wasn't as bad as it usually is. The vet tech weighed me and took my temperature. I've lost almost a pound in the 3 weeks since I was last there. He took me in back to steal blood, but brought me right back! The oncologist said she wanted to talk to the internal medicine vet before taking any blood. A while later, she came in and talked to Momma. My other 2 tests resu | 
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