Smoky

Yesterday night, I found out that one of my cats (Smoky) just died. He was sick for a while, and I know it's for the best, but I just can't help but miss him. I know that makes me sound like a crazy cat lady, but I really don't give a fuck. He was one of the best cats I've ever had - so sweet, caring, and lovable (and never bit anyone, which was always a huge plus). When at the end of January I left my house to go to the airport for my study abroad experience, it was at 4 AM in the morning, and I was so out of it that I forgot to say good-bye to him. And it wasn't until halfway to the airport that I realized what I did (or in reality, what I didn't do). And I just remember thinking, "Please let Smoky make it through this semester so I can see him for one last time." And I guess it just didn't happen. But I know he's in a better place right now - he was just suffering for so long. 

So to Smoky, I love you and I miss you. I miss the way you used to follow me around all the time. I miss the way you used to wake me up at 6 AM in the morning by meowing at me continuously and annoying the fuck out of me. I miss the times when I used to pick you up and just stretch you out by wrapping you around my waist. I miss teasing you about being such a fat and lazy cat (because let's be real, you were - the biggest thing you ever "killed" was a flower in the backyard). I miss using you as a blanket in the winter while I was in the family room watching tv, because you were so fucking warm. And most of all, I just missed the unconditional love that you always showed to me; something that is so beautiful about all animals - they don't care who you are, what you do, what you look like, etc, they just love you for WHO YOU ARE. It's cliché, but it is amazingly true, and something I will always keep with me in my heart.

I miss you so much, Smoky. You were such a great cat - truly a part of the family. I'm sorry I couldn't be there in your last few months. I'm tearing up as I'm even writing this. I hope you're having a good time chilling with Sara's cat Tigger in kitty heaven. I will never forget you, and I will always love you.