I've probably been told the story a dozen times over the past few years. About how they found the kittens in the attic one day. They couldn't keep them all, so they decided to keep two.
A white one they named Marshmallow and the runt of the litter - named Alex.
Alex was originally short for Alexis, after Kyle's then girlfriend, but once they discovered that "she" was a he - they just stuck with Alex.
And that little runt of the litter made quite the comeback. It wasn't long before he had outgrown his white furred sister. In fact, few people would probably have guessed at their relation. Marshmallow - who is often called Puffy for short is a thin, skiddish, yet oh so cuddly kitty and Alex grew to be, well, a big guy. :)
I'm not really sure Alex ever thought of himself as a cat. When most cats run away when someone knocks on the door - Alex always came to greet them. Alex played with the dogs and was fearless where most felines would find fear.
My favorite thing about Alex was this reflex he had. You know how dogs will shake their leg if you scratch just the right spot? Alex would lick his fur if you did the same thing. I spent most of my time with Alex scratching his back and watching his tongue reflexively groom himself.
As previously mentioned, Alex didn't wear his runt status for long. In fact, his sister helped bathe his back where he couldn't reach. Just thinking of this makes me smile. His girth was the topic of many a-comment by family, friends, and strangers alike. And Alex did nothing if not entertain with his quarks and personality. His laid-back demeanor was always a calm and comforting presence.
And tonight, we say goodbye to Alex. We will all miss him. I dare say that he probably left an impression on anybody who met him....and, for a cat, well that says a lot. Losing Alex creates a small hole in this tapestry of a life, but the years of laughs, cuddles, entertainment, love and memories will help us patch it up with colorful threads.
Alex, where ever you may be, may your pains be gone, your belly always full, your back always scratched and your window sill always sunny. There's no doubt in my mind that you know how much you were loved. You picked one jackpot of a family to adopt for sure.
Rest in Peace sweet Alex.
Daylight
I must wait for the sunrise
I must think of a new life
And I musn't give in
When the dawn comes
Tonight will be a memory too
And a new day will begin
~ from CATS
9 comments:
Oh Laura! What a beautiful tribute to our Alex. We are so sad tonight. Thank you so much for your beautiful poetic words. We surely did love our "Big Al". Requiescat in pace! Ouma
you should have put a disclaimer about this post. i can do lots of things...but cannot handle the loss of animals. i have said it before, if i were driving down the road, and there was a man in front of me and a dog...i'd swerve alright. swerve to hit the man...and for sure miss the dog. or cat. or rabbit. or squirrel. whatever. i just can't take animals being hurt.
we had "momma kitty". she was 21 people years old when she died. my dad buried her facing the east so she will know when Jesus comes back for us.
i wish i could have met alex. i'll be thinking of him tonight when i say my prayers. and for kyle's family too.
i love what you said about him. about his windowsills always being sunny. what a gift you have laura.
My beloved "fat cat" I will miss you more than words can say. It won't be the same there without you. I truly loved you. AJ
awww.. :(
Laura - thank you for your beautiful words - it is indeed sad at our house tonight. There are many fun memories that help deal with the sadness. I know the next time I sit in the recliner, I'll be waiting for him to hop on the armrest next to me . . . Thank you for this memory of that special cat - and the great picture, too. Papa
Your pen guides you to write many wonderful things, Laura, but I think this tribute to Alex is the best. Ernie and I met Alex in June and instantly fell in love with him. On our return to Australia we realised we had many more photos of him than we did of Nemo or Marshmallow. I think he kinda crept into our hearts. He had a wonderful earthly life, was much loved by all - let us hope he will be happy in feline heaven too. I feel so sad for Steph and Jeff who loved him so.
Kelsay.
Im sad about Alex to. He was such an awesome kitty :*( . Your words were beautiful-Brandy
Hi Laura, hearing the news today of Alex' passing brought back memories of watching the Shachmut and Strickland children bathing these week old kittens in a soap and water filled dishpan on the front lawn. Alex and siblings may have been deserted by momma cat but nurtured on and loved from the spring day they were resqued from the attic. Thank you Laura for remembering a grand cat with your rich words.
Laura,
I was touched by your words about Alex. Thank you.
Daddy
Post a Comment