When I used to visit my sister Lila in Idaho, she had this cat. His name was Spooky because he was easily spooked and kept his distance from most people. But each time I would travel to Idaho, a couple times a year at most, Spooky would hang out with me on the back deck as though it had only been yesterday since we had last shared that sunny spot together.
Now I wish my visits had been more often, as Lila passed away four years ago.
My brother-in-law had noticed, on my visits, what a bond Spooky and I had. My niece loved Spooky too, but she already had several cats. So she lovingly placed him into her car and off they went on a special mission to Washington.
Knowing ahead of time that Spooky was on his way, I waited on my front porch, as excited as someone waiting for an adoption to become final. When Spooky arrived, he did not try to run away, to my amazement, but seemed to know he was home and immediately warmed up to me as he had always done in Idaho.
I had another cat named Simon who preferred to be an only child. He would challenge any stray cats that wandered onto our property with a fierce cat fight, so I prayed that Simon would be kind to Spooky. My prayer was answered as the two of them developed an amazing bond. They were a little cautious at first, but Simon seemed to sense this was no stray intruder but his new brother.
They both followed me all over my property like two little puppy dogs. They were never far from each other as they rolled in the grass and soaked up the sun. How I loved these two.
One day my precious Simon died, and Spooky and I grieved. Now Spooky and I continue to share a special bond. I will be forever grateful for the gift my brother-in-law and my niece gave to me. Not only is Spooky a sweet companion, but he was my sister’s cat and reminds me of the love she spread to everyone she knew. I know Lila would be delighted to know that Spooky and I are the best of buddies and that he has brought Idaho sunshine to my heart.
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