Good-bye to a Friend

Yesterday we said good-bye to this guy: 

This is where Geisel could often be found at mealtimes. He would magically appear in the kitchen whenever we were having chicken or fish for dinner, even before we started cooking.  He knew he wouldn't get any by getting on the counter.  So he would sit politely on a barstool, just like a person, waiting for a tidbit.

Over 15 years ago, at the Oregon Humane Society, he climbed onto my shoulder and didn't let go.  He was great company ever since.  Luckily, he was pretty happy, healthy, and spry, up until last week when he became ill.  It was a gift, in a way, to know in the last few days that his time was limited.  We were able to put in some quality time with him, giving him a scratch on the chin while he enjoyed the warmth of the heater, and letting him have a few more hours hanging out in the sun in the yard.  We will miss him.