My wonderful quirky calico cat Penelope died this morning, at the age of eleven. She was my loving companion ever since she adopted me as a kitten at Christmas time and started living under my front porch. She chose ME…and it was one of her amusing and heart-warming quirks that she was a one-woman cat her whole life….she hid from almost every visitor, barely tolerated my ex (of course the fact that he teased her in a cruel manner didn’t help) and wrapped her whole life around her beloved mama, acting like she was my baby….even wanting to be held like one. She slept on my bed every night…followed me from room to room….and gave me many MANY kisses, especially on my nose, which for her own reasons, was her favorite.
This last year for her was the best year of her life…she was a very happy little cat, with no stress in the household and had only Coco around to compete with for my attention. She had a special fondness for large rubber bands and chenille pipe cleaners…even sleeping with them. I named my shop after her…I have always had a special place in my heart for wonderful little shops with cats in them, and while having Penelope in the shop would have been a disaster (since she had a curious nature and loved to climb as high as she could go), she was there in spirit and many customers asked about her on a regular basis.
It was a special blessing to have such intense undiluted love from such a loving creature…I feel very grateful to have had her in my life. Farewell, my sweet Penelope…..I will miss you terribly.
Penelope's Musings 
How nice hear such a loving tribute. And how sad you had to write it at all. But there’s no doubt she had a good long life. She was lucky to have you.
My heart goes out to you… Anyone who has ever loved and lost a pet knows that deep sorrow. I think God made their lifespans shorter to remind us of our humanity and own mortality and capacity to love again and again.
I am so sorry Lynette. I am so glad that I got to meet her last week! I know she is in heaven now.
Thank you everyone for your kind remarks..they mean a lot to me. I will say that the pain and loss I feel now are so small compared to the joy she gave me for so many years. I have lots of good memories to cherish.
I am so sorry for your loss. ((hugs))
Lynette,
This is a lovely tribute to your sweet Penelope. She was so very lucky to have found you and I hope that your many cherished memories will bring you comfort.
Hugs
Lynette<
Heartfelt sympathy and love. Rest in peace sweet Penelope.
I’m very sorry for your loss. Sounds like Penelope was a great pet. This is a lovely tribute to her.
Thanks so much…I appreciate your kind comments!