Goodbye Sam

I am on my way now to go say a final goodbye to my beloved Sam, the first cat I ever picked out. Really I should say that he chose me. This wobbly little 4 week orange sherbet-colored kitten strode across the counter top of the veterinarian's office in Thousand Oaks. He bee-lined it for my arms, purring so loudly the whole room could hear him.

Sam is now 11 years old and his kidneys are failing. I'm told that's the most common reason older cats pass on. There's some comfort in that, knowing that his body is just doing it's natural thing. I also know some of the recent pet food recall bruhaha has been linked with kidney problems, too. For now, all I can think about is stroking his soft fluffy belly one last time.

Sam you are one big lump of love, and I will always keep you in my heart. I love you, Sam the Regal. Thank you for all the times your curled up to purr with me when I needed it. Thanks for leaping over furniture, hunting mice, and always taking the best spot by the fireplace. You will be missed. I don't know how I will start my mornings without you greeting me at the top of the stairs, looking like the little king that you are. Goodbye for now, I hope we meet again.