To our reader

Although it seems that we have forgotten you, oh that is so not the case.  With champagne4breakfast making a serious move, to a city that she knows no one, to a new job, new apartment, and lovelylifetoo losing one of her precious kittens, there just hasn't been enough time to drink champagne or blog. 

Poor Roi was hit and killed by a car.  Someone kindly moved her body to the side of the road and she was given an appropriate burial on Paw Hill in our backyard where our family animals have been interred.  Her death has been particularly jarring as Roi was the most fun loving kitten I've ever known.  I often woke with her curled into my arm and she always came to find me when it was time to sleep, day or night.  Due to the exploits of her brother Charley I was prepared for him to find himself taken from this earth too soon, but Roi, I had no thought she wouldn't live a long and awesome life with me.  I had thoughts of moving back to the east coast and the car ride with Charley and Roi and it breaks my heart that I won't have her any longer.  Roi's death makes 3 cats that have left my life in the last 9 months. 

Charley was upset and despondent without his playmate.  Charley was definitely the dominant one in that relationship, Roi was always trailing him as he led her around and they spent lots of time playing in the backyard or in the front room, pretty much anywhere they were.  Charley needed her audience and he isn't happy without her. 

I can't imagine there is a replacement for Roi but I felt it would be easier for Charley at 7 months old to accept a new "sister" and with the upcoming summer weather, I didn't want Charley to be all alone.  So I adopted another black cat, 9 months old, and she promptly decided she hated me.  I've spent the last few days with her hissing, scratching, biting.  She doesn't like any of the cats and is perturbed that Charley wants to check her out.  To Charley's credit, he seems quite happy to know this new kitty and I think that once detente is accomplished and new kitty is able to play in the backyard, they will be happy.  I can't wait for the day that they will lick each other, as Roi and Charley use to do.  All seemed right in my little world when those little ones were at peace.

It hasn't been completely decided yet if new kitty wants to stay with us but I think we'll give it a go for now.  Her name will be Roily, sounds like Riley with Roi thrown in.  I wanted to honor that little life that isn't anymore but not try and replace her. 

A new black cat has been added to this blog, to remember my girl.  Seems crazy that a cat I've known for 6 months could be so special but she is.  It was a week ago right about now when her life ended.  I hope it was quick and painless.  I wish I had gone looking for her when she wasn't waiting at the door.  She loved being outside so I have no regrets that her curiosity literally killed her, just wish it hadn't been so soon.

God, I could use a bottle of champagne.