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Wednesday, February 8, 2012

cat-hartic

I hear him.  Especially when I'm alone in the house.  I hear him padding around in the next room, or I hear his graceful landing after he's jumped down from his favorite spot at the window.

I see him.  Out of the corners of my eyes.  I see him in the dark, waiting at the door for me in the morning. 

I remember the smell of his soft fur and the feel of his muscles underneath. 

I sense him sleeping at the foot of the bed or in my favorite chair



After joining us as a stray over 12 years ago, Cookie left about two months ago.  No sightings of him since.  I honestly didn't expect any.  He was too smart to be seen if he didn't want to be.  He left on his own terms.

We have talked of getting another cat.  Someday.  But Cookie spoiled us for just any old cat.  No, he will be a tough act to follow, and nobody is in a rush to get another.

Yesterday was a cold, blustery day.  I was inside more than usual and hearing him/seeing him everywhere.  I decided to draw him.  Afterwards, I felt very peaceful.



He left over two months ago.  But he hasn't.

I sometimes need to remind myself that he's gone.

But he's not.
.

7 comments:

Rebecca S. said...

Well expressed feelings and thoughts re: Cookie being gone and not gone. And I'm sure drawing him was comforting. Oh, I miss my kitty, too now.

terri said...

A really good pet stays in your heart forever. Obviously, Cookie was a one of those pets.

Love the drawing and the way you describe him still being around.

Shawnte said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your cat Cookie. I've never had a cat run away from me but I have had several of them die of old age.

This is a beautiful drawing of him by the way.

ShadowRun300 said...

Awww... he looks like my cat, Tiger, who drives me crazy yet melts my heart. Some of his habits and actions are incredibly sweet sometimes and completely spastic other times. He's gotten out a couple of times, but has always come back in the morning. A few months ago, however, he was gone for 3 days, and I just knew we had lost him. I was heartbroken. Then all of a sudden, late one night, I heard a scratch at the door and there he was! I wish Cookie had done the same. You have to stay positive, though, and have confidence that he can take care of himself... and who knows, he may someday surprise you at the door.

Rock Chef said...

I think that is the saddest thing about cats - you never really own them, do you? They are free spirits.

Love the sketch! Animals seem to be the thing that really sorts out the artists from the wannabees. You have got it just right.

agg79 said...

Some pets never really leave you. They become part of your the home/family. I like the way you captured Cookie's spirit.

Anita said...

Awww... I hope Cookie is okay - wherever he is.

It's good that you've included him in your drawings.