Bear with us, we are crazy cat people. Our beloved kitty, Rico, crossed the Rainbow bridge into kitty heaven this morning. Its especially hard because Rico was Evan's cat. The past few months, Rico hasn't moved much from the spot in the photo below, so Evan hasn't really noticed that he is gone, yet. He knows he was leaving today, but just got back from day camp and is busy watching cartoons at the moment.
Eating grass in the backyard, a favorite pastime of his.
...and eating catmint from the backyard, as well.
We love you, Rico, and miss you terribly. It was so sad to watch you go, but I am glad I was able to hold you in my arms as you slipped away. I feel sad that you are gone, but know that you are in a peaceful, wonderful place where your back legs still work and you are able to chase things to your little heart's content. Thank you for being so tolerant, patient, and gentle with your best buddy, Evan. We wish your short life would have lasted a bit longer. Twelve seems like such an early age to go - but we didn't want you to suffer and we didn't think we could bare to watch you waste away.
What we loved most about Rico the Rockstar/Racer/Roamer:
- He let Evan drag him around (sometimes by the neck or tail) and somehow understood that Evan was a baby and never fought back. When Evan got older, Rico snuggled with him. He still let Evan hug him way too tight, and never protested.
- He was a closet snuggler - when he thought you weren't paying attention he would come up for a head-bump, a quick purr, or a nap on your lap. But if you pet him he got up and left, like he couldn't admit to himself that he liked you that much (except for Evan.)
- His swagger. Anyone who saw Rico walk knew he had swagger. Was it because his hips and knees were bad? Or just because he was super-cool. It was probably the former, but pretend it was the latter.
- He was king of the castle. And the dog and two other cats all knew it.
- His googly-eye with the elongated iris made him look crazy, but crazy in an endearing- and snuggley-way.
- The way he kicked his back legs out to lay down (and his bunny-feet) always made me giggle.
- He was sneaky, but confident - and ultimately very, very loving. We will miss you, buddy.
Here's a video, taken yesterday, of Rico walking away. See? Nothing but swagger.
And Rico coming out of one of his favorite backyard napping spots - the dog house.
Goodbye, Rico. We love you!
Thank you to the Dahls for thinking of us and sending us this beautiful bouquet. You guys are the best!
