You never knew how paper bags worked - you just walked on top of them to lay down. You loved a good box, whether you fit or not. And you always liked to pretend you fit, even when muffing topping out the sides.

I am feeding your sister everything and anything she wants - just like what you always wanted. I hope that your 17th birthday was a good one since I gave you everything and anything you wanted to eat all day long.

I know I am supposed to tell a story about you, but right now I am stuck in grief. I cry every single day. I will come back and add stories about you. For now - know that you are loved beyond measure and that your dad and I are still trying to figure out how to go on without you. Your sister cries for you and jumps on the mantle to rub your collar with her face. You two were born together and spent your entire lives together. It is so hard to explain to her that you are not ever coming home again.

Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and still reach for where you should be. I pray that you are outside chasing birdies, meowing at them instead of chattering, and licking many catnip bananas. There are 3 here and I just cannot bring myself to throw them away because they were yours.

I know one day I will remember you without crying. One day it will hurt a little less when you drift into my mind. Until then, I hope that my tears are sealing in the memories of you for the rest of my life.

Until we meet again at the rainbow bridge.

Mom & Dad