Furry Blessings

Five years ago this past January, I rescued a stray Calico cat from my neighbor's crawl space. The cat then followed me across the street to my house and stayed. Apparently she figured since I'd rescued her, she was indebted to me! ~ My family and I called her Patches, since her Calico markings resembled a patchwork quilt. I really didn't think she'd stay but would return to her former home. Little did I realize Patches had no intentions of leaving, especially since she was already expecting kittens! So I continued feeding her on my front porch, and set out a large box with a soft towel inside. ~ On Leap Day (Feb. 29) as I left my house to pick up my son from tennis practice, I noticed a very plump Patches resting on the top step of my front porch. An hour later when my son and I returned home, we didn't see Patches anywhere. I peeked into the box and gasped--she'd given birth to four tiny, precious bundles of fur! The miracle of birth--even in animals--is absolutely amazing. I stood there crying as Patches looked up at me as if to say, "Look what I did while you were gone." ~ Several months later I was able to find a very good home for one of the kittens, but could not find anyone to provide loving homes for the other kittens. Now, five years later I have to say that Delilah, Levi, and Moses have been such blessings in my life. Yes, pet care does involve some work, Vet visits, and cleaning up spills, etc. - - but they are definitely worth it. These kitties have become like my "furry children" and have their own distinct personalities (or should that be PURR-sonalities?!). And like any good CatMom would do, to celebrate their birthday I've bought them some treats and ordered a birthday cake (however, I have a feeling I'll be the one enjoying the cake!).~ (Pictured above are Delilah, Levi and Moses, and Patches, the mama cat)