Claude, passed Nov. 11, 2013

I raised Claude from a kitten, bringing him home during the spring of 1998. He was a wonderful companion, sleeping with me at night and contentedly sitting at my side while I spent countless hours in the teenage pursuits of “hanging out in my room” and “listening to music”.  Claude was such an intelligent cat and followed me to two different homes after I moved away from my parent’s home. He was very empathetic but also very brave. It was such a joy to have him through so many stages of my life and wonderful that my children born 8 & 10 years after him were able to also have him as a pet – to know and love his wonderful and unique personality.

We were fortunate that Claude was with us so long. As the end drew near, he seemed to know it and slowed quite a bit in the days before he passed. It was a comfort to get to spend extra time cuddling with him, but I know it will be many years before I stop expecting to turn around and see Claude following me.