07/04/2025
We feed a cat colony in our area every day and have been for almost 2 years. These cats were abandoned when their owner died and the house was sold. The new owners wanted the cats gone so we stepped in to relocate some of the 19 - YES 19 felines. After 3 were hit by cars, 3 more were taken to the shelter for illnesses and 9 more were transported to local barn and greenhouse situations, only 4 remained. We spent several months, slowly transitioning them to an area just beyond their former home and this is where they come to eat and seek shelter from bad weather.
Last Spring, a 4-5 month old female came to visit - she was quickly TNR'd and has been a member of the colony since. Stella would have been one of those kittens to play with KD - to bat at his ears and bounce on his back. She is a hoot!
In his younger days, KD would have enjoyed hanging out at a cat colony - Instinctively knowing who needed him or just being surrounded by so many cats 🐈⬛
Shortly after KD passed away, I noticed the beautiful sound of a bird flitting from limb to limb on the trees that clothe the colony. It was unusual to hear because it was winter and except for the occasional train whistle, the colony is bathed in silence. The songs came from a stunning Cardinal. She landed on a branch above my head and I instantly burst into tears. I knew my boy had made it across the bridge - This angel was sent to bring me that message.
Since then, almost every day, I notice a magnificent male Cardinal singing and landing nearby - He gives me a head tilt and I smile because I know without doubt that the dog I treasured with my whole heart and who helped to raise over 200 foster kittens is exactly where he wants to be... surrounded by cats - looking out for them and saying "Hey Mom - It's me...I'm keeping an eye on things here." We carry on a conversation while I'm there and I leave a few pieces of cat food for him too.
Kitten Dad 🤎❤️ - He loved his cats and I believe from heaven, he always will.