Little Mook chose me almost 18 years ago. Her tiny white paw reached out from the adoption cage as I was passing by, and her little claw got caught on my shirt. Despite having no intention of getting a kitten that day (I was healing from the recent loss of my pet bunny), I knew she had to come home with me. I brought her to my parents’ house in Pittsburgh that day, and soon after, she accompanied me to my senior semester of college. There, she was socialized VERY quickly and became the life of the party.
After graduation, Mook moved with me to my then-girlfriend’s house in the city (then back to my parents’ house after a messy split). At 3, Mook got her sea legs while living on a boat with me in Key West for 7 years. She was by my side through my first marriage and divorce, eventually ending up here in our home in Virginia.
In her unique way, Mook helped me recognize my now-wife and (human) soulmate, and was the matriarch of our little Victorian home up until recently. Despite the other furry friends who also share our home, Mook always ruled the roost.
A steadfast presence, Mook has been by my side throughout my entire adult life. Her recent loss has been incredibly difficult for me to process. While I love and care deeply for all of my fur babies, she was something special. A tech at my local veterinary clinic described my relationship with Mook as her being my “soul cat.” I honestly cannot think of any term more fitting.
As the only constant in my life through 9 moves, 2 spouses, 5 careers, 3 states, and countless furry brothers and sisters, Mook was and will always be a part of who I am. I miss her with my whole heart every day. She truly was something special.
I am so thankful to have had her in my life for so long and that she picked me that day. ❤️