I’m usually Mr. Ho Ho Ho guy around Christmas, but I’m just not feeling it this year. It’s not some deep depression or anything, and I’ll probably be fine next year, but not for now.
This year I lost a very close friend. Yes, she was a cat, and yes some of you are already looking around trying to find the nearest thing to punch me in the face with, but she was my everyday companion. I loved Patches more than I’ve ever loved an animal in my life. It was very hard for me (and it still is, actually) dealing with her not being here. Pandora and Sawyer are great cats, and I’m very lucky to have them, but I still miss Patches.
Every year, when we would set up the tree, Patches would get involved. If you watch this video from a couple of years ago, you can see Patches inspecting my work setting up the tree (about 1:40 in).
She was constantly sniffing around the tree, grabbing ornaments, and cowering in fear at the red garland. There’s no way I would’ve been able to put a tree up this year without missing her tremendously, so I avoided it. I know in the box of ornaments, there’s one with her picture in it called “Kitty’s first Christmas.” I think if I saw that one, I would’ve needed counseling.
To some people they’re only cats, but to the people who love and care for them, they’re family. I’ll be fine next year, but this year? Sorry. Just not in the mood.