Ashlin by Jami

This tribute goes out to a very special and beloved cat named Ashlin. I found Ashlin when I was very young. Since the age of 11 he and I have pretty much been attached at the hip. This cat was the coolest prettiest smartest softest cuddliest most playful cat you could have ever met. Even in his old age he was a playful cat. And he was so cuddly that at times I’d have to rip him off my lap. And he was so soft that at times he would have to tear away from my endless petting. He had a distinct marking of a white splatter on his nose of which I called a milk splatter. This was very fitting since he was nuts about milk and ice cream. And did I ever spoil him! He would get two to three servings of milk per day with an occasional ice cream serving. Some days I even gave him some whipped cream and boy did he gobble that right up! Sometimes he made the cutest little snorting noise when he would eat. It always made me smile and laugh.

Ashlin battled with a failing kidney in his final days. I know I should be glad for his suffering has now ended. But I want him back. Never again will I hear him scratching at my door wanting to be let in. Never again will I hear his soft “meow.” Never again will I wake up next to him in my arms or go to sleep with him sleeping on my chest with his head buried under my chin and against my neck. Never again will I carry him in my arms like I so often did. Never again will I get to kiss his cheek or rub his ultra-soft belly.

I miss my little friend my best friend. I grew up with him and he’s always been there for me. Now that he’s gone I know I should feel glad for the 18 years that I did get to spend with him. But I just wish I had him back with me.

I hope to see him in heaven someday.

Jami