Today is Toulouse’s 11th birthday! Counting our blessings for each day is so special and such a gift!  Toulouse came into my life in a haphazard way…

My dog (scratch that because I don’t like calling her a dog) that word doesn’t describe her accurately – she was a living Angel to me. Cali had passed away on Mother’s Day in 2007, she was 17 and though it was time for her to go I was certainly not ready… 

…I was seriously depressed from her passing and grateful that I had my two kitties at home, Rembrandt and Matisse, and life was going on as it should I suppose. Then one day in August of 2007 I went over to ‘Just Cats’ veterinary hospital to get medication for one of my kitties and I would always check out the kittens, if they had any, because you know they are just so darn cute and would cheer me up 🙂

Well, on this day in 2007, there was a new batch who apparently were at a kill shelter in upstate NY prior. Some kind soul found and save them, bless you whoever you are! These little guys were very lucky and they ended up at ‘Just Cats’ for adoption to good homes. I went downstairs to check them out and get my cheering up. I found a group of little fluffy grey kittens with tufts of fur standing up from their ears and flowing from their toes that were heart melting adorable!! But there was one, just one, that was looking at me and waiting patiently for me to come and pet him. He looked to me to be such a little cuddle fluff and gentle soul. Of course I cuddled him up and then kissed him goodbye, I wasn’t ready for a new baby that’s for sure!

I called my friend Sallie and told her that she had to come and get this kitten! He was so special and I wanted him to go to a sweet loving soul where selfishly, I thought, I could visit him. That would be great!

She came!  We actually went together to ‘Just Cats’ and I thought for sure she was going to get him. I was so happy for her!  Then at the counter she insisted that I have him. There was some conversation about me not being ready but she was very persistent and he was oh so very cute!  So Sallie, with her ever loving huge heart, gave me my little kitten as an early birthday gift 11 years ago today. She said he would help me heal and you know what – he did and still does!! Thank you for the gift that keeps on giving Sallie!!❤

It was a rough ride at first –  I wasn’t ready but naturally loved on him. My kitties at home weren’t ready but we made it through and this big guy is still a mushy cuddle bunny, definitely alpha cat (ergo some issues with my other boys at the time) and HUGE!!!  Turned out those tufts of fur are indicative of Maine Coons which are one of the largest breed of cats!  Love him so much, no regrets and so much love!!!! – Purr Out!