CATS OVER COFFEE/TALE OF YUM YUM

 "Sweetheart, I sure do miss her!"

FIRST CUP OF COFFEE

These were my first words this morning over coffee with my wife. Strong storm that was when my wife and I first met. She full blooded Sicilian heritage from New York and me of Scottish and English heritage from Canada. Me conservative, frugal and calm about most things. Her full of opinion and a temper that can boil over faster than the hottest coffee!

But on one thing we always agree.

We both love cats.

Each one hold a very special place in our lives and have for many years.

In fact, once our boys were grown we cannot remember a time when our home has not been filled with the love and presence of at least one feline friend.

Many of our cats have lived with us for years and years.

Each one is special. Each one has those little endearing traits that bring joy and laughter to an otherwise possibly dull and routine day.

Though cats love routine they break up the monotony in many surprising ways.

They are paradox creatures.

Highly predictable yet full of independent unexpected spurts.

They often seem to just tolerate our presence yet will then lump in bed with all purr and fondness.

My wife and I enjoy their daily roaming and hiding about and cannot imagine not having a cat in the household.

Each one contributes to making it a home.

The loss of one is total heart ache.

Each one leaves behind such bittersweet memories.

In our little Hall of Fame one of those we fondly remember is Yum Yum.

As is often the case the way she came into our lives was by accident.

Happy accident.

P.S. More about Yum Yum in tomorrow's blog.