Murphy (??? to November 6, 2006)

My beloved Murphy journeyed to the Rainbow Bridge earlier this week. He had been my companion since late 2003, when he was plucked from a kill shelter where he was awaiting euthansia. He was, I believe, literally on the list. The word went out about the need for foster space, and I had one. I offered it, thinking that this boy might only be with me a short time. Then I fell in love with him when he arrived and promptly flunked "Foster 101" for the second time in as many months. He was a big silver boy with the most tremendous ears. Soft and beautiful, slightly attitudinal, and very much in need of a patient, loving, indoor home. He'd nip gently sometimes and push my hand away when I went to stroke him; other times he'd settle right down and enjoy some friendly attention. He was delightfully laid back and a joy to behold. Most of all, he loved to chow down on his daily carrot and pile of greens. Divine feasts, the likes of which he had never before seen in whatever harsh life he'd been leading up until he was dumped at the shelter. Banana treats and a few oats rounded out the good life for Murph.

And then came Clarabel. I bonded them in the summer of 2005, and they spent many happy days grooming each other, nestling, and generally being pals. Clara brought complete happiness to Murphy's golden days, and they were fast friends. Murphy was my friend, too. I already miss his grunts and his anxious anticipation of whatever food was coming his way. I grew very close to him in these last days, when he needed special care and handling. I wish I was still seeing my reflection in those big brown eyes of his. He came from the euthansia list at an upstate shelter straight into my heart, and he will never leave there. It never gets any easier to say goodbye. Rest comfortably, fluffy boy. You are loved and missed.