Dear Stephanie,
Well another year has passed and a new one has begun. It's time not only to wish you a Happy Birthday, but to also reflect on 2022.
When I look back on last year, three significant events shaped me.
1. My beloved Qandi crossed Rainbow Bridge on April 3rd. I knew her time was coming soon, especially in the few days leading up to the day she passed, but nothing can prepare us for when that time actually arrives (like when you passed). I'm comforted by the fact that there was absolutely no doubt in my mind it was time to say good-bye to my furry companion of 17+ years. I remember once telling you how she was the perfect companion - a good balance between loveable and playful. She remained that way into her senior years. I'm so thankful you two met.
2. I always knew that when Qandi's time to say good-bye came, I'd adopt at least one other cat. Sure enough, on July 2nd, I adopted not one, but two sister kittens. Their official birthday printed on their paperwork is May 1st, but I was told they were ten weeks old when they were adopted. So I think they were actually born around April 23rd, the same month Qandi passed. Isn't the circle of life beautiful? I named them Bell (after Tinker Bell) and Fiona (after a fairy amateur sleuth in the Fairy Garden Mysteries). Fiona is gray and white and Bell is a dilute tortie. Bell talks A LOT. There are times when I have all out conversations with her! Although I still have a special place in my heart for Qandi and I think of her everyday, I love Bell and Fiona more than words can say. I wondered if I'd be able to feel the same kind of love for more kittens as I felt for Qandi. I know now that no two loves are ever exactly the same, but can be equally strong.
3. I found my niche in cozy mysteries and I started my Caboodle of Cozies blog! I published my first post on that blog on the 12 anniversary of the day you passed. You are the one who got me interested in cozy mysteries and excited about reading. I was happy to bring it to life in memory of you. I used to feel like I had too many hobbies and never enough time to do them all. Who would have thought I'd finally find what I really want to focus on in reading?! Reading is just a part of it, though. I also love watching movies (especially Hallmark cozy mysteries) and reviewing what I read and watch. I combine all of these interests on my blog and I found a way to incorporate weekly updates and pictures of Bell and Fiona! It does mean that I don't post on this blog much, but that's okay. I will still post here sometimes. I'll never forget where and how it all began. I'm happy to say I also found a community of cozy mystery authors and readers. I never knew cozies were so popular and well-loved! I am also a part of a community of fellow readers (who read all types of books) and bloggers. I wish you could be a part of it all here on Earth. We would have so much reading cozies and discussing them. I'm very happy to to have found them, though, and I believe you led me to them. Thank you!
Well, that's about all for now. I am going to attempt to allow Bell and Fiona to sleep in the bedroom tonight again. This time I have a squirt bottle in case they get into things they shouldn't. It taught Qandi how to behave, so I'm hoping it works out the same way for these girls. Wish me luck!!!
Luv ya lots!
Meezan
No comments:
Post a Comment