Oh...I am so sorry. This is the first time I've ever posted, but I just had to this time. I'll be thinking of you.

Oh my dear Laurie. My heart to you darlin.
That song reminds me of my daddy - who is in heaven too. tears for both of them from me.

OMG, I'm crying at work and it is 7 hours before I can rush home to hug my dog. My thoughts are with you - every pet owner dreads the moment you just described so eloquently.

I'm a long time lurker but just wanted to share my sympathies on the loss of your best friend. He found pure happiness in you and died peacefully knowing a good life in the end. *hugs*

I'm so sorry Roy's gone. I know what it's like to lose the cat who's there for you. It's hard.

I am crying right now having just read about Roy. My sincere condolences. Pets are special--they always accept you for who you are. Give the other kitties a big hug, if they'll let you!

Oh, Laurie. I am so SO sorry. I am sitting here at my desk crying uncontrollably. Even though we've never met, and I have never seen Roy in person - I have always loved to hear about your sweet, old man-cat.

What a lovely story, a lovely tribute to him. Losing a much loved pet can be so painful. I am so happy that Roy found a home where he was loved, and that he -in turn - could offer you love as well. I'll be praying for you!

xoxo
Julianne

((((hugs)))) Laurie - I'm so sorry. Roy was a good kitty and we'll all miss him.

Sad, sad, sad day. His love will always stay in your heart of hearts.

Oh, poopy doop. When I finally realized you were talking in the past tense, I started tearing up. I'm so sorry for your loss Laurie. Hugs, JAM xo

My sympathy and empathy to you and your whole furry family. Irreplaceable and loved. Almost a year ago my dog left us, really old the vet told me at 13 years, and I threw myself on his bed and sobbed even though I got to have 13 wonderful years with him. [hugs and back pats from Los Altos] Now if I could just stop crying before my 10:00 meeting.

Oh, I'm so sorry. I wish I knew what else to say. Many hugs.

Oh Laurie! :( That was such an amazing story and a wonderful tribute to Roy. I don't think I've ever posted before, but that story moved me and I figured I had to say something.

I'm not really a "cat" person, but I do love all your stories and now, especially this one.

Thanks for sharing. Spread the love to the other cats. :)

I'm so sorry. I feel like crying but I can't because I'm at work. Roy couldn't have had a better mom. You were both blessed to have each other.

Oh hun...so sorry about Roy. Losing a much loved pet is heartbreaking.

-

Oh, I'm so sorry. Your post has me weeping like a loon, and I'm in work. Poor Roy, but lucky Roy too.

Laurie, the story of Roy's passing made me tear up. I'm glad his end was peaceful.

It reminded me of when I had to let go of my little princess. Like Roy, she'd had a sketchy background, but came to trust me. Complications from (very) old age (20) and diabetes caused us to have her put to sleep. Even thought it was for the best, it was very, very hard.

Laurie, I'm so sorry about Roy. I've been through lots of cat death and it's hard. They are family. And I was getting used to seeing pictures of his soulful face and was fantasizing about fixing him up with my kitty Willow (not her real name, she won't tell me what it is)(picture follows if I can figure out how to send it to you). I think you are doing a good thing, celebrating Roy by telling his story.

I am so so very sorry.
There is no way to ease or comfort.
But I am so sorry.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss! Not many cats come when they're called... (((hugs)))

Oh, I am so very, very sorry. Poor Roy, and poor you for having to say goodbye for now. I'm so sorry he's gone. He's been such a great cat and such a good companion.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry. I was afraid I knew the ending as soon as I read the post title. . . All of my pets (2 dogs, 2 cats) are 13 years old now, and one of the cats is already terminally ill, so I dread having to go through what you're going through now.

At least Roy's life with you was full of love. And your sweet stories about him have given him a lot of internet fans who will cry for him & miss him right along with you.

((((hugs))))

Oh Laurie. :-(

Jesus, I am so very sorry for you. I'm so glad you two found each other. I hear that the roads in kitty heaven are paved with bacon. Old man cats are the best. Goodness, I miss him already for you.

I am seriously sitting here at my desk, eyes welling, hoping nobody comes to talk to me or else I'll burst out into tears. I'm so sorry for your loss, Laurie.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I had no idea where this post was reading until you stated that he has passed on. Oh, Laurie. Everyone will miss Roy. I'll be sure to hug my kitties extra tight when I get home, and tell them about him. I AM crying at work-I can't help myself.

As I was reading this fabulous story of Roy and how you two came to be, I was just filled with kitten love...it's such an amazing story! When I came to the end, I just had to write you to say how incredibly sorry I am that you lost such a special friend. I am so sorry for your loss.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry! Such a loss, to lose an old and loving friend like that! You are in my thoughts.

So sorry to hear of Roy's passing. He was more than a pet to you - he was a good friend, part of your family. Long live Roy's memory. (hugz)

I am so, so sorry. You and Roy and the other kitties will be very much in my thoughts and my heart. Much love to you all.

Oh, Laurie, I am so sorry. I'd cried buckets before I got to the end of your post. I feel your pain.

Laurie, I'm so so sorry for you and the other kitties. I hope you're holding up okay.

Fiona, Dapper, Sasha and I are all so sorry for your loss. Hugs from me and my furry friends.

The tears are rolling down my cheeks. I've loved all your Roy stories,....I'm so sorry you lost your dear friend.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. He was something special. Now I need to find the tissues...

I am so sorry Laurie, I wish i were home, i could have a cleansing cry.....I had to take my glasses off, wipe my eyes, blow my nose.....

I was reading your story, and my heart just sank when the words turned to past tense, oh no! I thought, no.....

It has been 5 years, July 26th, that my Rusty dissappeared, he loved ME like that.....and i him...damn here come the tears again!

Take care, let the tears flow.

Sherri
SW Minnesota

Oh, Laurie. I am so, so sorry. I started crying as soon as I read the first line. I just knew. You wouldn't be telling the Story of Roy unless it was the end of the story.

I am so glad to know his story. I send so many animals off in the pet placement business, and even though I know they are well placed, the ends of their stories are uknown. I can only wish them happiness with their new people, and hope they have many years full of love.

You gave Roy that love, and after he had such a bad start in life. He'll be patiently waiting for you on the other side, to sing to you and purr, when it's your turn to cross over.

Oh sweetie, I am crying now, for Roy, and for my little hamster, Penfold, and for my fishie, Bob. Much love to you. I'm glad you have The Story of Roy, even if you cant have Roy any more.

I was starting to tear up before I realized what was going on--what a beautiful story. Now I'm trying hard not to cry at work. My deepest sympathies are with you. I lost my 2 old cats in the last few years and still miss them so much.

I remember something I read here on the interwebs, a few years ago -- I understood it profoundly, and I think you would, too: "All the love that I don't know where to put at the end of the night would go into this pet. And she gave it back to me in subtle ways."

I'm glad that you and Roy had each other, and that neither of you felt the need to be subtle about your love.

Oh baby Roy! We all loved you so much and you brought such happiness to your Mama. Enjoy Kitty heaven and keep an eye on your family.

Laurie, Thanks for sharing your wonderful baby. It is never easy but it is so worth every minute you got to spend his love.

Love and Hugs,
Clara

Laurie, I am so sorry to hear about Roy. You both are lucky to have had each other. there is nothing better than an "Old Soul". My heart goes out to you and the rest of your fur baby family.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry! I was afraid that's where you were going when I started reading.

I lost a cat this winter to kidney failure (and maybe to the poison cat food, but no way to know for certain) after 12 years. Ghost was much like Soba - small, evil, and destined to take over the world. Morgan the poofy-cat spent much time lurking around corners waiting to ambush her, but she never would show up. The dog didn't know what to do without a tiny little cat to boss him around. (And you haven't seen anything until you've seen a seven-pound cat make a hundred-pound dog _heel_.)

I'm glad that you and Roy had so much good together, and so damned unhappy that they just don't live as long.

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. I'll hug my kitties in his honor tonight when I get home.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. He was a very special little old mancat, and that was a beautiful tribute to him. Thank you for sharing. Big hugs to you during this sad, sad time.

Oh honey. I'm so sorry for your loss. I still remember losing my cat, the same summer I lost my father, and that emptiness that just seemed to grow and grow and grow. But then I remember my kitty, who used to meet me at the corner to walk me home from school, who let me pet her belly when nobody else was allowed, and who loved me. Hang in there.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. He was a very special little old mancat, and that was a beautiful tribute to him. Thank you for sharing. Big hugs to you during this sad, sad time.

Oooh Laurie. I am so sorry.

you were so lucky to have roy in your life.

roy was so lucky to have you.

that kind of love will always come back to you.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Give the rest of the kids (and yourself) a hug from me.

Such a beautiful tribute. May Roy find you in your dreams.

Bye, Roy...

*hugs*

I am so sorry Laurie.

Laurie -

I noticed the past tense and started crying before I got to the end. There's really not much else I can say, but I'm sorry and my thoughts are with you. The pain is so hard, but all that joy they bring really makes it worth it I think. I big hug for you from the Stuff family and Livi too , of course. XO

Cats are the best. Roy was an exceptional friend. He will be in your heart, where you need him most.

Whisper to Roy that we loved him too.

Oh, Laurie, I didn't even see that coming, and now I'm sitting here crying at work. I'm so sorry. So very sorry.

Goodbye Roy. Your wisdom, even at a distance, has inspired us all. We'll miss you.

I'm truly so very sorry.
I started crying when you started writing in past tense and when I got to the end I was literally Roy T Cat will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.
RIP Roy.

So sorry Laurie.

Such a beautiful and touching post. I'm sure Roy is waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.

you made every day of roy's life better. he will be missed by an entire community - my thoughts are with you.

I got as far as "All the other cats adored Roy, he was their Hemmingway,..." and realized what you were about to say. I'm so sorry.

I've been lurking for a while but just had to comment today. I'm so sorry!! Every time you wrote about Roy, it was so clear how much you loved each other.

Laurie,

What a lovely tribute to good Ol' Roy! I can't remember if I've commented before (probably not), but I've been enjoying your blog, ever since a friend noted it as one of her favorites.

Pets are wonderful companions, and Roy is a great example of how much they can fill your life with joy and comfort it with companionship.

I don't consider myself a "cat person" (not that there's anything wrong with that ;) ), since I grew up with dogs for pets, but have had cats and loved them, and they're special animals. We don't always enjoy the special-ness you had with Roy; how wonderful that you not only had that gift, but also the delightful eloquence to share with us while you're grieving his loss.

Hugs,
Margie

I am so very sorry you lost your (our) Roy. You made his life happy for so many years, Laurie, and in return he gave so much love. Roy's in kitty heaven, in a kittie pi, eating some bacon, sending you comfort and kisses for all the wonderful years you gave him.

I can only say I'm sorry and I'm sorry and I am so very sorry. The Sobakawa, Frankie and Bob will miss him as much as you, so I hope you all snuggle together and comfort each other.

Laurie --
I am so very, very sorry to hear about Roy. Having had two of my "old men" cats pass away, I know how you must feel. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Roy was very, very lucky to have you as his mom.
Peace,
Chris.

Roy!!!
(had to say it one last time)

Laurie, I'm so sorry. I'm sitting here crying too.

I'm sure there's bacon at this end of the Rainbow Bridge where he's waiting -- and of course at the other end too.

I"m so sorry to hear about Roy. Poor little guy. He was blessed that came into his life when you did. You made a great life for him.

RIP

Oh, Laurie. I am so sorry. Virutal hugs to you and the other kitties from across the USA.

I am crying at work, I have had to close my door. I can't even imagine your pain right now. My family's thoughts are with you.

Oh I'm so sorry to hear about Roy's passing, but it sounds like he had a wonderful life with you, and a peaceful passing, and that is all anyone can hope for.

What a lovely tribute.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear it. I'm glad you had so many good memories.

Oh, lord, I am crying as I write to you. I had no idea where your blog post was going. Hugs to you, but you seem to have a good attitude about your loss, better than mine at the moment. I lost my Buggsy last May and was totally devastated for 4 days (hysterical crying) before my grief began to ease up. I hope you believe as I do that all cats go to heaven...I'm sure my Stripe and Buggsy have already met and welcomed Roy. I chose them the same way you chose Roy and Soba...give me the cats no one else wants. Roy was lucky to have found you.

Oh god Laurie, I can't even imagine. ((hugs)) to you. Roy was so incredibly lucky to have you.

What a lucky, lucky cat Roy was to have found you. I'm so sorry, Laurie.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. You and Roy were very lucky to have each other.

Laurie... my heart goes out to you. Just last year we had to put down my childhood dog of 14 years, so I know how hard it is. Hang in there and give the other kitties lots of love.

Thank you. I just wanted to tell you that from your stories over the past few years I loved Roy already. Many many condolences. I didn't know that a blog would ever make me cry...

I am very sorry for your loss. Try to focus on how he will always be warm now and no longer in pain. Please convey my condolences to your other fur babies, who must miss him terribly.

My Patchy cat, whom I adopted when she was 11 years old, was the ugliest bowling ball looking calico, passed on at 18 years of age due to mouth cancer. She left the world in my arms, and when her body went limp I swear I could feel her pain leave her and knew she was at peace.

I'm glad I have a cold right now so I can blame my teary eyes on the virus. I am so sorry to hear about your loss, Laurie. Roy was a wonderful cat and I'm so glad I got to know him vicariously through your writing.

RIP Roy 'ole boy. I'm sorry for your loss, Laurie. :hug:

My special cat, Phoebe, and I wish you, Bob, Frankie, and Soba the comfort of fond memories of sweet Roy.

Laurie, I'm so very sorry. I lost my Shane in February after 11 years together--just him and me so much of the time--so I know how you're feeling. Roy knew how very much you loved him, and he obviously loved you, too. You gave him such a happy life, and that's the best thing you can do. You're in my prayers.

Laurie (((((hugs))))
Sounds like you two were destined to know one another. Love to you and your kitties!

Oh Laurie I'm so sorry for your loss - they leave a huge hole when they go - I'm sitting here with a lump in my throat and tears hovering - I never dreamed that was where your post was going. Hugs

I'm so sorry for your loss. It sounds like you were incredibly lucky to have each other.

Oh dear.. I'm so so sorry, Laurie. You and Roy had true love. He lived a grand life once you saved him and he paid you back with his love.

Sending hugs your way.

What a beautiful post....the best eulogy that I have ever heard or read. Much love and strength to you.

so sorry, laurie. no advice to give, just sending you good thoughts and hugs through this here internet. i'll miss roy, too.

I am so sorry to hear about Roy. Our thoughts and hugs go out to you and your furry babies.

Dear Laurie,

Your post is beautiful and brought tears to my eyes. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Oh honey, I'm in tears here. Sending you the biggest virtual hugs I can. He'll always be with you.

laurie,
you dont know me, but i know you. i have been reading but have never posted. i was hoping this day would never come. im so sorry. this makes me cry.
=^..^=
xo, amy

Oh Laurie, my heart is breaking for you and all of us that love Roy. As you always say, everyone loves Roy. We will miss you sweet boy. Love, GL

Laurie, I'm so sorry. Your story of Roy is so touching. Yep, I'm shedding a few tears here too.

Oh Laurie, my heart is breaking for you and all of us that love Roy. As you always say, everyone loves Roy. We will miss you sweet boy. Love, GL

Lost my kitty last September. He'd had me for 14 years. I cried when I read about Roy, but you're so right that you'll encounter him again.

I wrote about my kitty, Wooster, on my blog. It helps to share their stories.

Here's to Roy!

that is sweet- and I am sorry. big inappropriate hug...

Laurie, I am so sorry. What a wonderful tribute to your old man cat. Roy was my favorite.

Laurie, I am so very sad for you and the other kids. I rescue older cockers so I have had my share. They usually tell me their names too so I am there with you on that one. Hugs and blessings to you, Barbara

I'm so sorry Laurie. It's a beautiful story about you and Roy.

Love to you, Laurie, from another total stranger to whom you speak across the innernets. Lola and I will celebrate Roy with an extra Pounce tonight!

Oh, I am so sorry to hear this. I couldn't stop crying here at work. I'll be thinking of you and Soba.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry! You caught me off guard here... now my SO is going to come out here and find me sobbing over a cat I never really met.

{{{{{{{{{ Laurie }}}}}}}}}}}}

I'm so sorry for your loss.
May he be in a place with lots of bacon and catnip.
Best thoughts to you and the rest of your kitties. All ya'll will miss him.

Laurie, Roy was way my favorite of your cats. My grandfather's name was Roy, my brother's middle name was Roy, and my little one's middle name is also Roy. So I have loved me a big pile of Roy in my life, two of whom are now gone. It's a good good name. I hope you are able to someday find another Roy, as I have. It is a fine thing to love, and be loved unreservedly. Some would say, the only thing. My deepest condolences.

Having followed your blog for a couple of years and also lost a cat of my own in that time, it really touched me to hear of your story with Roy. I hope you are doing well and you are in my thoughts.

Laurie,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss- he was a beautiful cat. You wrote a wonderful tribute.

So I was having a bad day at work and had to take 5 minutes from day 3 of an intense 4 day training session and I thought "oh good, I'll go read CAP." So I log in and to my delight there is a picture of Roy and I started reading and it was lovely and halfway down I got the feeling of dread and then, as I knew what would happen, got to the end with tears streaming down my cheeks.

Laurie, I am so sorry for your lost of the one who loved you the best.

Oh my God Laurie, I was not expecting the end to that story, that's how good a writer you are. I did not see that coming. I was laughing at "big grey smoky lonesome" and thinking how sweet it was that he waited for you at the door every night, and now I am nearly sobbing. Sweet, sweet Roy. Laurie, I'm so sorry.

(((hugs))) and love to you and Frankie and Soba and Bob. Roy was so lucky that you found him and took him home when you did, and so were you - you brought so much to each other's lives. And I'll never hear that song again without thinking of Roy. :)

I am so very sorry.

Oh my God, Laurie! I'm so sorry. I can't imagine how you're feeling right now. :o( Just know that my arms and 22 sets of kitty paws in Ohio are virtually on your shoulders right now.

I lost my very much loved bichon 3 years ago, it was sudden. He was only 8 years old - very young for an otherwise healthy puppy. I too was heart broken...he was the first critter that I had raised from a puppy myself and he had been with me though some very difficult times as well. He actually died at my mother's house while she was dog sitting while I was having some work done on my house. As a result, he couldn't spend the day at home...I think it was best that he passed there.
One night when I was on the phone to my mother sobbing because I missed my boy, she told me something that still sticks with me and helped then and now. She told me that, perhaps, my bichon knew that better times were ahead so he knew it was OK for him to move on to a better place. Maybe, as difficult as it is now, Roy somehow knew your life is better and more settled and that you didn’t need him in the same way as before. He knew it was OK to move on to play with the other kitties that have passed. Not to be all metaphysical (‘cause, really, I am not usually) I really do think our fur babies can sense these things...

My heart goes out to you.

I am so terribly sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.

your beautiful tribute had me in tears since Roy looks very much like one of our cats Ceylon who passed away 4 years ago. He was very beautiful.

PS: Definitely piano player in a martini lounge. And I hope to see him there someday. :)

I'm so, so sorry Roy is gone. This was a wonderful tribute to him and your memories together. I know what it's like - every time you give your heart to a pet it's a heartbreak waiting to happen. But always worth it.

Laurie,
Even though I don't actually know you or Roy, I feel like I do. I am soo sorry for your loss. I will miss him too.
{hugs}

We always get more from the four-footers than we can possibly give them.

Darling, I'm so very sorry you lost someone so beloved. Please keep in mind that you gave him probably all the love and so much more to eradicate the cruelness of his earlier life. (It was we owners of rescued animals do.) My thoughts are with you.

My heart goes out to you and your kitty family. I understand how a special feline can fill your heart completely (I have several myself)what a beautiful tribute you have written for Roy.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. I know what it's like to lose a pet and it's as awful and wrenching as losing a human loved one.

I started reading with a coffee and cookie and by the end the cookie was all crumby tears :(

Sending hugs, tea and sympathy xx

That was a beautiful story (for a handsome cat). I'm sorry for your loss.

Sometimes you lock eyes with a cat when he comes into your life and you know you have known each other for a long, long time.

One of my baby cats, Reggie, looks so much like Roy that your pictures always make me do a double take. And Reggie is so beautiful and gentle and loving, I know he has a part of Roy's soul.

Other parts are in Bob and Frankie and especially Soba. And a big part is in the next cat to come into your life, who will sometimes do things so much like Roy you won't know where they came from. And the biggest part will be waiting for you, because if our cats aren't in heaven, why bother going?

You had said before that Roy was sick so I have been dreading dreading this day, but now I'm sitting in my cube sobbing hysterically.

I'm so glad you had each other and I'm so sorry he's gone.

Oh Chicky i'm so sorry.
We can't have cats cuz the Guy is allergic. We only just got our pup a couple of months ago.

For over 3 years before that we've had a siamese fighting fish "Gordon". When we moved to this new house i found him dead the next morning. I cried my eyes out but then i realized that pets are
reincarnated. Because Gordon told me, as he lay in the bowl, that he would be at the pet shop next week and to pick him up. I told the Guy and he held me and beleived me too.
And of course i walked into the store and there was Gordon smiling up at me :)
Pets add so much to our lives.
hugs

I am so sorry for your loss. I understand all to well how you feel. I had MY cat from the time I was two until I was 19. You gave Roy so much, and he gave back to you, unconditionally.

You are in my thoughts and prayers, always, but especially due to your very understandable sadness.

Adrienne

I am so sorry. Roy was an amazing cat.

Laurie - De-lurking to pass on sympathy. I am so sorry for your loss. Your tribute to your beloved pet was quite beautiful. Best - Laura

That was a really lovely story and now I'm sitting here crying. I'm so sorry he's gone (for now) and I send you all the good thoughts I have.

That was so, so beautiful. I'm sobbing while I'm sitting at my desk.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Roy was a special guy and he was very lucky to have found you. Scratch that - you were lucky to find each other.

Oh nooo! God, I so did not see that coming, and I'm sitting here absolutely SOBBING. I'm so sorry, Laurie, so completely sorry. I know what it's like to have that cat that's a true love - almost like a life partner, he's so close to you. I love all these wonderful sweet memories you have of him, and I'm so glad Roy got to know a good complete love from a good person; thank goodness you picked him up and gave him that chance at a happy kitty life. (And maybe a little bit of zucchini terror plots.) Hugs to you, lots of long hugs.

I subscribe to your blog via syndicated feed on livejournal. I don't generally comment, but I just wanted to pass along my condolences on the loss of your beloved old man cat. My heart breaks for you. The kind of unconditional love that you get from a pet is unexplainable to those who aren't animal people and you're never quite the same after they pass away.

I will go home and spoil my 5 furballs tonight with much catnip and tuna juice and light a candle in Roy's name.

I am very sorry to learn of your loss. I hope you can find peace and comfort in the memories of your cherished one.

Oh my, I'm crying like crazy at work. I think you and Roy shared a bit of heaven with each other, how unutterably sweet. What a spirit he had that you found and nurtured to fullness. Here's to bacon, catnip and crinkle caves. I send best bacon-energy to your home for you and your furry family.

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. My thoughts and prayers will be with you, and with him.

Oh, Laurie. I am so sorry.

I am so very sorry for your loss, deepest sympathy.

I am so so sorry. Roy must have been an awesome cat, and loved you very much.

I'm a big believer in that cats tell you their own names, in their own time.

Kitty love is the best. I will hug mine for Roy

dang.

We are so lucky to have them in our lives but it sucks when we lose them.

I have to go pretend like my allergies are bothering me now. stupid work cubes with no privacy.

Sweet Roy boy.

Laurie, you and Roy are in my thoughts and my heart. Thank you for sharing him with us.

So sorry to hear about Roy. Be sure to keep an eye on the other cats. When one of my cousin's cats passed, the other cat was depressed for weeks.

Oh, Laurie, I am so so sorry. I know how it is to lose the cat of your heart. He was so lucky to have you, and you were so lucky to have him.

laurie,
Hope you can find comfort in the wonderful memories you have of Roy. I am so sorry for your loss. That was a beautiful tribute to Roy and the song is just as lovely!

I am also a long-time lurker, and so truly sorry for your loss; pets are the most wonderful people in the world, and it just plain hurts all over when they leave us.

Roy was clearly the King of Cats - quite handsome, I might add - and will be missed. I hope Soba is taking the loss okay - I think they know and prepare for it better than we humans do. Many, many hugs of sympathy to her and you - oh, and extra treaty-treats help, too.

Rest a while, both of you, with your memories and Roy's peace; before you know it, you'll be ready to open your heart to another one.

It's all good, Crazy Aunt Purl. Be well.

My heart goes out to you and my thoughts are with you, for the loss of the love of your life.

I'm so sorry about Roy. You and he were lucky to have each other.

Oh, I'm sitting here bawling, now. I'm a long time lurker and only occasional commenter, but felt compelled today. I'm so, so sorry for your loss. I know nothing can fill the void you feel right now. But, take a little comfort in two things. First, you both loved each other and shared a very special bond that can't be broken. That's always been obvious from the way you've written about Roy. Second, there are lots of us out in blogland that are sharing your sorrow and sending hopefully comforting thoughts your way.

Oh, and I forgot - this link is to the Abbie the Cat blog, and he wrote it when his sister, Martha died. I've read it a thousand times, and it still makes me cry. But its really wonderful.

http://abbie.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_archive.html

I'm so very sorry to hear of Roy's passing, but thank you for sharing that wonderful story about him - what a lucky, lucky cat he was to find such a loving owner after all he'd been through earlier in his life. My deepest sympathy to you on your loss.

i am so very sorry for your loss.

Oh Laurie- I'm so, so sorry. I'm going to hug my own little man now, whether he likes it or not. Big hug! Rose

Laurie,
I am so sorry for your loss.
Roy was very blessed to have you, and you him.
{{{HUGS}}}

You poor thing! Loosing our furry friends is just as tough as our human ones. I don't care how crazy I sound. I can still cry over my dog that got hit by a car when I was a freshman in highschool and my cat that died a few years ago that was mine since I was in Kindergarten.

Dear Laurie:

I am crying at work. I am so sorry about Roy. Many hugs.

Magda

that post so did not go in the direction I thought it was going. Need.To.Go.Find.Tissues. Sniff...

I've never posted before but I love your blog and I love reading about your cats (we have 2). I just wanted to say how sorry I am about Roy - you and he obviously had a very special bond.

My cat was there for me through some ridiculously hard times, too. And he always waits at the door for me, too. And now I have to go and annoy him with hugs and cuddles because I'm crying so hard.
Bye bye Roy.

Roy has always been my favorite--
I love the Hemingway image--
But this is one of the best lines ever--

Crazy people love being vindicated, especially by nature's purest accomplice, the house pet.

Roy will always inspire you. Have no doubt that your amazing writing is one of the many places he still lives....

I am so very sorry. Now when I hear that song I'll think of Roy. As an owner of cats and having gone through this a few times, my tears are flowing.

I am so sorry you lost your friend. Like most everyone else I am crying for your little family like a crazy woman at work. Thank you for giving him such a loving home and a beautiful ending to his story.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sad for your loss. I started welling up when I began reading your post - I have two cats that have been my babies for ten years, and I can't imagine life without them. I'm so sorry. I wish you peace and healing.

Laurie

I am so sorry for your loss, but am grateful that you had so many wonderful years with your old man cat.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so, so sorry for you. In the past 5 months, I lost all three of my pets (a mouse and two gerbils). My last gerbil, Gilbert, passed on about two weeks ago and I cried so much for him. It's so lonely in our house now (even though he was in a cage, he was still such a big part of my day) and I miss him so much. My thoughts are with you.

Laurie:
You and Roy were so lucky to have each other.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Be gentle with yourself and hug and love the kitties.

Oh my, this is tough... I had my own kind of Roy who was the cat love of my life and died at only 8. I'm so sorry.
Jeanne

Laurie,
You (and the rest of the heard) have my deepest sympathies; cat people understand each other and I can feel your anguish and love in the words you've written for Roy. I'll miss him all the way here in Minnesota; and will give my heard a few extra treats tonight in Roy's honor.
- ((Hugs))

I'm so sorry.

Now I'm crying at work and reminding myself that it's not strange to cry over a cat you've never met, because you made him so real for all of us...I think all your readers had a special soft spot for Roy. I don't suppose my boss would understand if I asked to go home so I could hug my goofy, needy, adorable cat Fred, another one of those "he needed a home and I needed a cat" kind of stories. We are blessed to have them in our lives and it's never long enough, is it?

I've never commented here before but I look to your blog everyday to make me smile and laugh, but I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for your loss. I have an old man kittle at home who waits for me at the door every day and I can't even imagine how hard it is for you right now. I am sobbing at work right now because I think people like us who love our pets like they are our children have a deep connection even if they've never met. I know words won't bring Roy back but I hope you know everyone here is thinking about you and your kitty family.

Jenn and Felix the kittle in VA

Hi,

Once more with the longtime lurker first time commenter, i just wanted to say how sorry i am about Roy.

Hope you can take solace in all the happy memories you have of him

*hugs*

one last thing: have you told Mr. X? He helped bring Roy into your life, maybe he should know.

*SNIFF SNIFF SNIFF*
I'm so happy that the two of you found each other, and that he didn't end up living his last days in that cage at the shelter.

Whew--didn't see that coming. Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful story.

Oh honey, I'm so sorry to hear that Roy has passed on. The love between you won't pass, and hearing you speak of it has made me cry. I lost my own beloved in 2003, he also was my love, my Big Brave Lion. I was honored to have known him. We will all miss Roy along with you (and Soba). Take good care of yourself and know that we are all thinking of you.

Oh, Laurie...I am so sorry. Even when you know it's coming because they're ill, it doesn't make it any easier. Your tribute to him was beautiful. I am so glad that you two found each other. Hugs to you and your other furbabies.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry. I once lost a cat that was very dear to me so I know your pain.

It is always amazing how something so small can fill such a big space is your life. Thank you for sharing Roy and his life.

I can barely see through my tears and blubbering to write this (thank GOD I have an office with a door). Your story of Roy is SO. TOUCHING. Like you, I find my single, childless self filled with love from my pets (dogs). They are/were the children I don't have and, as ignorant as it may sound, I can't imagine loving a child any more than I love(d) my dogs. My heart goes out to you, Laurie, and I hope your memories comfort you. You and Roy were very lucky to have had each other. ((HUGS))

*hug*

I'm so sorry Roy had to leave. It's a good thing you knew how much you meant to each other and that you had years of knowing each others' names.

I'm so sorry for your loss. You wrote a beautiful tribute to your friend.
{hugs to you}
Kris

Oh, Laurie. I cry whenever I read that a blogger lost a cat, but yours are special - I guess because I think I know them so well. I'm so very sorry. I don't know how I will function when I lose Maggie and Mitsy. I don't think I'll be able to get out of bed. I was sitting here crying at my desk and my boss came over to talk to me and wanted me to tell you that she's sorry too. She has no idea who you are, but she understand your loss, as we all do. Hang in there.

Laurie, I'm so, so sorry. We lost our old man kitty just about a year ago and I think about him every day. Thank you for sharing your beautiful Roy with us.

Oh, Laurie, I'm almost crying but I"m at work so I can't. My thoughts are with you, and thank you for sharing the story of Roy.

Now I can't wait until I get to go home and hug my kitty babies.

Oh, no. I was enjoying the story and the writing, and then I noticed the past tense and jumped ahead and had to grab a tissue before I got caught crying at work. So, so sorry for your loss, but I'm so glad you and Roy had each other for so long and were able to comfort each other.

And if Mr. X was good for nothing else, he was able to give you that story about Roy knowing you were coming!

I am so sorry. Roy was a good, good cat. Your tribute was beautiful and beautifully written. You were a wonderful friend to him.

so sorry for your loss... I am a pet owner, can't imagine how you are feeling :(

Laurie,

I'm so glad you had Roy in your life. It sounds like my Tommy who I lost six years ago. i still miss him. They are all special -- but some of them are extra extra special.

I have tears in my eyes. I knew the end of the story before I finished reading.....
Good thoughts to you today and always.

Why can't our best friends live as long as we do?

I'm so sorry.

Thank you for sharing your baby with us, and thank you for letting us know of his passing so we could mourn with you. Many tears are being shed for Roy from all over the country it looks like.

Good-bye Roy.

I'm so sorry, Laurie.

I can not find the words.

So long snaggle-toothed Roy.

Special people (and I do firmly believe that cats are just little people with fur) come into our lives just when we need them the most.

Roy was your special person.

My heart goes out to you, Laurie. I read your blog all the time and have become as attached to your babies as is humanly possible without ever having met them and as I am a crazy cat lady, that's quite a lot! My best to you and the rest of the fur family.

I am so sorry for your loss.

I need to go hug my cats now.

Oh -- I'm so sorry! Your story of Roy is bringing tears to my eyes. You gave him a wonderful second chance at life when you rescued him and that is so touching. I hope the happy memories of him can cheer you up now when you miss him so much. hugs.

Dearest Laurie,
As is everyone else, I am sitting hear in tears reading your story of Roy. Although we have never met, I check your blog everyday. I, too, was a divorced mother of four cats, only a couple of years older than you. I, too, lost one of my dearest friends of over 19 years only 2 weeks ago. Schoolbus. She was a small grey tabby. But the boss over me and everyone else in the house - the other 3 cats are boys. It is strange to feel so in synch with someone half the way across the country but with so much in common. Roy was as lucky to have you as you were to have him!!

Please remain hopeful in regards to your love life. I unexpectedly found a wonderful (10 years) younger man who is definately my soul mate. I have confindence that you and your kitty family will be as fortunate!

Thanks for everything you share with us,
Tabbetha

Laurie - I'm right there with everyone else who's crying at work. What a beautiful story you told about Roy. I will miss the pictures and stories, but not as much as you will miss him. I's so glad you had him in your life, and you in his, to help each other heal and move on. With hugs and sympathy, Kate

Laurie, I am so so sorry about your loss! I'm reading this at work and people must be wondering why I'm bawling... When I go home I'm going to give my 4 cats an extra hug.

I am so sorry, Laurie. And it will be all right, with time.

I'm so sorry Laurie. Thanks for sharing him with us.

Laurie, you can take comfort in the fact that Roy touched a lot of people all over the world. He was the cat that cheered everyone up when they felt down. He reminded me a lot of my own cat, having been abused before he came to live with me. Both of our kitties opened up and gave us love despite being hurt by others. Cats are special like that. I loved Roy like his was my own kitty and I know whereever he is right now, he's probably eating bacon. We're all thinking of you right now. Hugs are available.

Roy look so like my cat, Asia, who is a chocolate lynx-point siamese. They are a special breed of cat. My husband tells me that as soon as I leave the house Asia paces by the door and will only come sit on him after 20 minutes or so when she has determined that I am not coming back right away. If we are downstairs when she wakes up she yells to us all the way down the stairs as if to say "Where the H-E-doublehockeysticks are you guys". I am so sorry that you have lost him and I hope you find another who is that loving and of course intelligent enough to tell you their name.

I am so sorry. I am glad you could be there when he passed, and you really do have great stories of him. He sounds like a great pet and a wonderful friend.

I will add my hugs from Sweden. I am a lurker too - I enjoy your writings and visit everyday.

Roy was fantastic, as you are to make so many people smile and laugh..........and just feel normal.

Big big hugs on your loss........

Another crier and first time poster. I'm truly sorry for your loss. (((hugs)))

I'm so glad you found each other; both of your lives were the better for it.

oof.
that totally got me.
i'm sorry for your loss. i'm glad you had him in your life, and he you.

I've been lurking for a year but never commented. I'm so sorry. Roy was my favorite to read about.

Long time lurker delurking to say how sorry I am. He sounded like a very loving, sweet pet. My thoughts are with you.

:tears streaming down my face: My wish is for peace to you both. I"m so sorry for your loss.

I'm so sorry. I loved Roy from afar and I'm sitting here in tears now. That sweet little cat angel. Just know that the love too of you have is a special bond that will never end.

Big hugs to you and your cat family.

Damn you, Laurie for making me cry at work. I'm the office hard ass. These people will never take me seriously again.

I'm so, so sorry for your loss. On a lighter note, it took 6 months for us to name our dog. Forever, she was just "Pup". I was certain the time would come that we would find the perfect name, but when the deadline had come to register her we were still at a loss. We sat at the kitchen table. Just staring at each other. I warned him. "If you do not come up with something, I am going to name her Snapperdoodles." And he said fine. I said fine. And out of spite...the greatest dog in the world has the gayest name in the world.

I like Roy's story better. We'll all miss him.

Oh Laurie. I am so, so sorry. Of all your funny animals that you've written about, I loved hearing about him the best.

god's peace be with you.

I am so sorry for your loss. Big tears are pouring.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss!!! Roy will always be with you in your heart! That was a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing!

Aw, man.
I know how much you loved that cat.

I am so, so sorry for your loss.

I am so very very sorry.

So sorry, and I've been there so I know how you feel. You will be sad and weepy for a while, but will always remember him fondly.

Remember there's a little bit of Roy in each of the three kittens he helped you raise. I'm sure they'll rise to the occasion and help you through this hard time. They can tell when their people need a little extra love.
My thoughts are with you, and I'll hug my furry friends extra tight this evening.

I'm so sorry for your loss Laurie. We've never met but I think of you as a friend just from reading you and Spicy and I loved Roy. He was such a cutie. Thanks so much for sharing his and your story. Spicy's little ghost sister Fuzzy, aka Chubbers, will keep an eye on him and keep him warm. :)

Oh! I am so sorry for your loss, yet it is lovely to read about Roy and know that he passed on peacefully. I hope his 3 other furry companions will manage without him.

What a great old age he lived! You truly rescued him from kitty hell and gave him a loving home. I hope someday in the future that you'll be able to rescue another darling in need.

We got our Samson and Gracie from the Human Society and have loved them ever since. They become a part of your family!

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy's passing, but thank you so much for sharing his story. I wish I had known him.

I'm another longtime lurker and new poster. I am sitting at my desk crying right now. What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful friend. I'm so sorry for your loss.

I had a feeling when I started reading this post that this would be the news. But I hoped I wasn't right. I'm so sorry for your loss, Laurie.

I'm so terribly sorry for your loss.

Stupid internets. What kind of sense does it make that so many hundreds and hundreds of people can dread the death of a cat they've never even met - because we have all been dreading it, haven't we, even before we saw the subject heading today - and then get so totally broken up by it when it happens? This hits me practically as hard as when my own cats died (each of them with his own bittersweet rescue story). And this is the good news, isn't it, because it's the price we all pay for having had so much joy for so long from a cat we've never even met. It's sad and puzzling and moving and astounding and wonderful all at once.

You gave him a good life and a good death and a beautiful tribute. Can't ask for better than that. Sigh. Time to go hug the cats who are still here.

Divorced, with 3 cats, first time poster, but long-time lurker...I am so sorry that Roy passed on. Through your words I can tell how much you love your cats. Roy was so very lucky to have found you and you were so lucky to have found him. My thoughts are with you :)

I can't read this closely right now because I'm at work, with no privacy, and I will cry buckets for your special cat (I've already gone through a dozen tissues). When I get home, I will read it slowly, and let it all out. I will give Roy his due. There is no doubt in my mind about how loved he is.

Oh God. I am so, so sorry. I have lived for photos of Roy for so long, and I can't believe he's gone. He was my favorite little guy too, even though I never met him.

Thanks Laurie for sharing him with us. I am thinking of you sweetheart.

Lots of love and hugs

Here's to Roy and his Fang: May he always have extra crispy bacon and the sweet love of a Torti Cat. We'll miss you!

Oh Laurie!! A big hug from me and a leg rub from Simon. Roy was a great soul, and I'm sure he's still keeping an eye on you where ever he is.

You can be sure that baby will be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for you, girl.

Hang in there..........bless your heart. I am so sad for you today.

Oh Laurie...I'm so sorry to hear about Roy's passing. You wrote such a beautiful and loving tribute to him! I'm thinkin' about ya!

oh Laurie and kitty company,

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. I am crying at work and need to wait till I get in the privacy of my own living room to finish the post; but know that you, Soba, Frankie, and Bob will be in the thoughts of me, Pannenberg, and Dorothy.

(((((((((((((Roy))))))))))))))))

He will be missed by many, whether we were close enough to stroke his fur or could only love him from afar.

Oh, I knew the moment this post started how this was going to turn out. I am so, so sorry, Laurie. You gave Roy a wonderful life. He was so lucky to have you, and you him.

Dear tenderhearted, loving Laurie - I'm sending you virtual hugs. Roy was incredibly blessed to have you in his long life.

About midway through your post, I realized the reason you must be writing it. I hate it when people say 'I know how you feel' - but I do. I lost my heart-kitty to old age a few years ago and I have a similar story about her adoption. Other furry beings have moved into my home, but none into my heart the way Snowy did.

I'd like to think that Snowy was at the Rainbow Bridge to greet Roy upon his arrival...

Much love to you.

Lorrian

Roy reminds me of my Jeremiah whom I rescued from a rat pack family of BOYS when my marriage was just 10 months old. He was a scrawny, long haired Siberian cat, completely petrified of moving legs. One of his first acts in our cramped 400 sq. ft. house was to run out the back door. But since we didn't have a backyard to speak of, he dove under the back stoop steps. I couldn't find him and couldn't find him until I bent down to peek under the stoop. He came to me right when I called him (I already knew his name without asking). It was like a test. "Do you really love me??" After that (and some bribing with tuna juice) we were buddies. My hubby told me Jeremiah, like your Roy, would wait by the door just before I got home. Weird, huh? I wonder how they know.

He passed away just before Thanksgiving. So I am very sorry you lost such a close friend.

Oh laurie, I wish there was something better to say than, "I'm sorry"..but I'm so sorry. You gave Roy the best home he could ask for.

Laurie, I've been lurking for a year now, and finally feel compelled to "come out" of the lurking closet to share my most hearfelt condolences with you. I've been where you are, I've felt the same inconsolable grief, and most importantly, I've known the same unconditional love for an old curmudgeon of a cat that chooses you as his only person. Sometimes the silent kind of love is the best kind, you know?

Roy was a character - the fang, the yellow flower smeared all over his face, the innumerable cuddles with Soba, and the eyes (oh! the eyes) - the kind who leaves a mark on your life through all the years to come. Thank you so much for sharing him with the rest of us crazy knitting cat lady types the whole world over; our lives, too, were enriched for his antics. And you must have noticed - surely, you saw - how angelic he looks in his last portrait.

I am so sorry.

Probably someone told you this already, but did you know that Roy is French for king?

Laurie, my eyes started tearing up as soon as I saw the title of the post. I'm so sorry for your loss, I know nothing I say will help but I'll hug my boys even harder when I get home tonight in his memory, you are in our thoughts.

I am so sorry.

Oh man, we will all miss Roy. I always wondered how he got his name - it makes purrfect sense to me now. Lots of cyber-hugs being sent to you today.

So so sorry to hear of the loss of Roy.

He was lucky to have found you!

My sincerest condolences.

Laurie-

I'm sooo sorry about your loss. But so happy to hear that you rescued Roy from such a terrible life and gave him such a great one! It's such a horrible thing losing such a special friend. I know he'll be missed.

Oh God, I'm so sorry. I'm sitting here crying at work and everyone thought I was crazy until I explained why.

Roy was lucky to have you just as you were lucky to have him. Friends like that are always special and always remembered.

I've lost 4 cats that I loved dearly. I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sitting here at work with tears in my eyes. There is nothing like the feeling of loving a cat who loved you back unconditionally.

Laurie-

I'm sooo sorry about your loss. But so happy to hear that you rescued Roy from such a terrible life and gave him such a great one! It's such a horrible thing losing such a special friend. I know he'll be missed. My heart goes out to you.

Laurie, that was both sad and beautiful. How wonderful that you and Roy had each other, even if for too short a time.

Be well and know that many are thinking of both of you.

Oh, honey! *giant hug* How sad. I'm glad the two of you had such a special relationship though. I know this is tough.

Losing pets just sucks, especially our special, special old guys.

My condolences.

I just had to delurk and tell you I'm very sorry for your loss...I just don't know what to say.

You totally snuck in his passing in that story though...I'm sitting here bawling at my desk. I'm a nerd, and apparently very hormonal today.

I'm so sorry. Roy will be missed by his fans. My old guy, Guido, who died a month ago, will be there to hang around with him.

Laurie - I haven't read the other comments yet - but I'm weeping and petting on Evangeline and thinking of Roy dancing around over the Rainbow Bridge, and you're the dearest cat-lady I've ever encountered and I'm sending love to you. I am so sorry. Thank you for telling us in that tender and loving way.

Oh, Laurie! I'm just in tears. My sympathies at your loss of Roy.

Oh no!

Oh no.

Godspeed, Roy...I'm one of those late-realizers too and I cried through the last half.

Hugs,
Jen

Oh gods, Laurie. I am so sorry. About halfway through I noticed the past tense seemed... I don't know and then I started crying before you said it. So many Southern hugs from one Texas girl to another.

I am so sorry, not for the life he lived, not that he is at peace now, but that you had to let him go.

I am actually face-scrunched-up-gasping crying, not just teary. That damn Abbie the Cat link was the last straw.

My 19 year old cat still comes when I call... her littermate died last winter, and we still miss her so very much.

I'm so sorry. I really didn't expect that ending when I started reading. I'm glad that poor abused kitty got to know so much love in his life, and that you got so much love in return.

Hey Laurie and kitties,

So sorry to hear about Roy. Bast was certainly looking out for him when she dropped him into your life.

*coming out of lurkdom* Oh - I'm in tears at work. So sorry for you loss.

My heart hurts for you Laurie. I've never even met you or Roy. But it's taken me quite awhile to stop crying at my desk at work for you and your lovely bacon boy. I am lucky I can cry here. My boss brings his dog in every day and understands what these animals mean to us.

For some reason, I had swiped the picture of Roy surrounded by zuchinni the other day and put it on my computer desktop. Everybody loves Roy, you said. Even the vegetables. yes.

I'm so sorry. That was a great story, though. I'm about to cry my eyes out at work.

Laurie, I'm so sorry that Roy has gone on. However, you gave him such a wonderful life and he gave you so much back that it can't be too sad. (She types, sniffing). What a wonderful story. What a wonderful cat.

My heartfelt sympathies to you, Laurie. I lost my best furry friend 4 months ago...I know the pain and loss is great. Hugs to you!

Laurie, Thank you so much for being a good mama to Roy, and giving him such a wonderful life and a loving home. The world needs more people who seek out the forgotten and the unloved. And thank you for sharing Roy with us - I can't help but smile when I see his furry little face, even today, when I am sad to hear he's moved on.

I'm sorry to hear that you've lost your little guy, but I'm so, so glad that you two had each other when you needed to. Hugs to all your fuzzies.

Laurie,
I too am delurking to say how glad I am you and Roy had each other. His death is a lot less sad because of the life he led with you!

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Roy was pure love and his pictures and antics touched my heart.

Oh, honey.
{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}}

I am so sorry for your loss.

My dog Duke is my little man, too, and told me his name was Duke. He says he also would have gone by Cinco.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is sometimes harder than losing a person you're close to, because pets never hurt your feelings.

NO!!!

When I pulled the page up today, I said to myself, "Oh, goody, Roy. I love to read about Roy. How can I love a cat from afar, even if he does look like my cat? I am weird." I even sent a friend invitation to Roy on Catster one time.

I had to run to the bathroom here at the office to cry.

Laurie, I'm so, SO sorry for your loss.

laurie, i am so sorry for your loss. you, roy and the rest of your furry posse are in my thoughts and prayers.... as i have a roy, his name is just max and i feel so lucky to have found him when i did. warm wishes and hugs, s

Laurie,

Your sweet story brought tears to my eyes. I loved hearing about Roy and your other kitties and the joy they've brought into your life. I know you bring just as much joy into theirs. I'm sorry for your loss. Hang in there girl!

ps. I've already pre-ordered your book and can't wait to read it!!

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry. My eyes began filling with tears halfway through when I realized, this is the story you tell when you lose your love. My shirt and even purring Lola, sitting in my lap, are splashed with tears. I wish I could hug you. The most passionate affairs of my life have been with kitty-cats; I don't care what that says about me. They are pure souls and it is an honor when they love us back. I'm going to imagine Roy's next life as a piano man in a martini bar. Take care, sweetheart.

Oh, Laurie. I too knew as soon as I started to read your post. I wish there was something that I could do.

I have been there, too many times. But this past January, I had to put my 21 year old cat to sleep. I'm 33. She was my best friend. She was the 'one'. Like Roy, she spoke to me. After having cancer for about nine months I had to let her go. So one Sunday, we were home alone, about to read the NYTimes, and I asked her. I said, out loud, "If you're ready to go, I'm ready to let you go." And she climbed up my chest and "head butt" me SO hard for a four pound cat. And I knew. We were both ready.

It's never easy. (BTW, you were there for me, Laurie, when I commented about this on your blog.)

Bye, Roy. You were a good cat. You will be remembered.

Thank you for your lovely story. The very best kind of friend. I'm so sorry for your loss. You gave each other the best there is.

Laurie: I'm leaving work now to go hug my old cat, Domino - that is, if I can see to drive through the tears.

Laurie, I don't ever leave comments, but felt I had to today. I'm so sorry. I'm crying and petting my kitty (who was the one no one wanted and waited three weeks for a name). How lucky Roy was to find such a compassionate, kind, and loving place in your home. Thank you for sharing him with us. What a beautiful tribute you wrote for him.

What an absolutely beautiful tribute. While I was in high school we had a boxer named Tabby. She was beautiful, loving and she was MY baby. After I was in college and married, she died and the day it happened I was 3000 miles away. I sat on the couch in our itty-bitty apartment and told my husband about all the dumb things I used to do with the dog and how much I had loved her.

Laurie I am so sorry to here about Roy. I'm crying here in my cube thinking about the pure love our pets carry around for us.

I am so sorry Laurie, he was a wonderful guy - just from reading your stories we have all come to love him too.

I will miss the incredibly adorable pics of him.

Oh I am soooo sorry. I am balling. I was afraid with you refering to him in the past tence that something had happened. I am glad that he went peacefully and you were there to comfort him in his last moments. It is always hard to loose a pet. You gave him some wonderful years that he probably never would of had if an angel hadn't entered his life. Maybe his passing means that there is another desperate little life out there that you need to save and love.

{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}

If there is anything that you need or that I could do for you this far away please let me know.

I'm so sorry for your loss...he was so precious. I loved your story. I loved that little snaggletooth. ((((Hugs))))

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy!! You've written a wonderful tribute to him. ((hugs))

I'm so sorry. I'm crying for you and feel like I know you all. I will try to cheer you with a happy comment - I can't wait to see you on Oprah, I will take off work that day! Take care sweetie.

{{{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}} I'm so, so, sorry. I'm sitting in my cubicle tearing up and sniffling. Please take it easy the rest of the week. I'll be thinking of you!!!!!

Hugs to you Laurie. He knew he was your favorite. xoxo

You gave him his second life. One full of gentle love and kindness, and he was there for the start of your new life. I am so sorry that darling sweet Roy has passed, but at least he was with his girl and knew he was loved. We should all know that feeling in the end.

Must go hug my kitty now. We're thinking ya'll and sending cat hair covered love.

Laurie - you just made me cry. I imagine you must be familiar with the story of the Rainbow Bridge - I'm sure your Roy will be patiently waiting for you there one day.

I am so sorry for your loss...I have always meant to write to you and tell you how much like Roy my little Purl looked. Like they had to be related.

She is my little princess...she, too, got me through a tough year after my last breakup. I can't even imagine the loss you are feeling right now.

Thank you, though, for taking the time to share that with us. Roy was a beautiful kitty I'll miss his pictures...

Here's to Roy and here's to you and here's to all the cats who pad around in our lives for a time.

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Thanks for taking care of him when no one else wanted him. I'm sure he appreciated it.

I realized the end when you started using past tense. I have now hugged on my kitties, tried drying the tears, and just wanna send you huge innernet hugs. I am so so sorry, sweetie. Roy will be missed by thousands.

I'm so sorry for you and the rest of the cat crew. I noticed the change in the tense and I saw where this was going. It's good that he waited until you were strong enough to take it.

I'm off to have a bit of a weep on your behalf and of course I can't explain to anyone why.

first time post-er as well, but had to include my own sympathies. Soulmates can be hard to find, lucky for you and Roy. Peace be with you and the other kitties who will surely miss their wise old friend.

I'm another first time poster, but long time lurker who has fallen in love with your cats through your posts and who always looks forward to more cat pictures (the world can never have enough of those). Roy's face and antics will be sorely missed.

I am also extremely touched by your story, told in that beautifully written eulogy, and I am so very sorry for your loss

I do have to admit it took me a few minutes before I could write this due to my crying over your loss and hugging my own little man, Mookie. My thoughts are with you.

hi laurie
like others i'm a lurker. i have lost cats in the past too, and it is heartbreaking. i have two beauties at the moment that i'm away from and i'm missing terribly and i dread that day. your story makes me so sad for you. thoughts and love your way xoxo

Honey, honey, honey. My heart just breaks for you. I'm so sorry.

Mr. Boo and I are terribly sad to hear that Roy has gone on to the big cat box in the sky, but we hope he's up there singing his heart out to you!

Lots of love, Roy, you're one tough old man kitty!!

((((((((((((((HUG)))))))))))))))

Roy's the joy boy.

Dear Laurie,

It took me a long time, after reading this, to figure out what to say. All I can think of is that the world is a much lesser place without Roy. I lost my own Baby Dave many years ago and he was, like Roy was for you, special to me in a way that is beyond rational or logical explanation. Still, I can only imagine the loss you must feel and my heart grieves for you. My tears for Roy are, I'm sure, a tiny drop in the bucket compared to your own. Roy was not my cat; I had only seen the photos you have posted on this blog and read his story on his Catster page, but I mourn his passing nonetheless. His story was terrible and truly heartbreaking, but you took him in, gave him love, and he was blessed with living his last years knowing life was not all pain and suffering. Roy was a beautiful, special angel and he will be missed.

Sincerely,
Carol Snedeker-Martinez

Oh Laurie. I am so sorry for Roy's passing, but so happy that you've had such a wonderful kitty-friend in your life. All cats are wonderful, but cats like Roy are few and far between. I just know he'll be waiting by the door for you, even though it be years and years and years.

Thanks for sharing the awesomeness of Roy with us. I'm so glad Roy got to live the rest of his life with someone like you. Off to cry buckets.

I'm so sorry! Add me to the number of people crying at work. Roy was my favorite of your kitties, mainly because he reminds me of my dear Tristan who is also very shy (abused as a kitten, I think). I'm glad you shared his story -- he was incredibly lucky to find someone willing to love him in his old man cat state, and I'm sure he knew it.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. I didn't even catch this being his memorial until you actually said it. Waaahhhhhh.

Wait - he passed yesterday? Bossy is so sorry.

I am so sorry about Roy. I've lost two cats in the last two years and it HURTS to this day.

Hopefully he's in a better place and no longer hurts.

Laurie, I am so sorry about your friend Roy. What a lovely story, please take care.

Your loss brings back all of the heart breaking feelings I had when I lost my beloved cat. I feel your pain. Now that Roy is in a better place, remember that there is another unwanted, scared little cat that needs you now.

No one else adopted him because he was YOUR cat. I'm so sorry for your loss. Please let Soba, Bob and Frankie know we're all thinking of them, too, because I'm sure they're missing the Big Guy, too.

I connot even begin to explain how much my heart hurts for you. I don't like cats, but I will mourn your Roy today. You gave him a good life. Bless you.

Oh, Laurie. I'm so, so sorry. I'm not a pet owner, so I can't relate in the same way, but I can tell that Roy was more like a very close and cherished friend.

I connot even begin to explain how much my heart hurts for you. I don't like cats, but I will mourn your Roy today. You gave him a good life. Bless you.

Another person logging in, crying at work. People like you, Laurie, are what stops cats from giving up on humans altogether. Roy was well-loved and will be well-missed. Bless you both.

Leslie

Oh, Laurie. I'm so sorry.

We're all sending you our love right now, and even though we all might meld into just one big blur of hugs for you, think of it like this - each of us is giving Roy a pat, and at this rate he'll be loved and cuddled by us all forever.

Oh Laurie, I am so very sorry for your loss.

Bosses all across America are wondering about the suspicious sniffling today. We're all going to miss Roy -- what a beautiful eulogy you have written for him.

Sweetie, I'm so sorry. He was a beautiful cat of great grace. I have very much enjoyed seeing his picture on your blog. The others are lovely, but Roy had true style. He will be missed by us all.

::hugs::

Laurie,
My heart goes out to you. I am so sorry to hear about Roy. He seemed like he was just the sweetest kitty. I love the story you just posted about how he told you his name. May Roy rest in peace knowing how much he is loved by you.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry to hear about Roy. :(

Oh...

I'm so sorry.... I'm mourning Roy here too.

There is no pain like losing a cat you love, and who loves you. I know. I'm so very sorry.

I'm so sorry. Roy was very special, and so are you for giving him reason to love you so much.

Now I'm going go have that song in my head all day, and it's going to make me cry everytime I hear it playing between my ears. I'm going to go hug my old man kitty, who will be 20 this fall.

I'm so sorry Roy's time came. Bless him for all he gave you and maybe he saw you of late for who you'd become: standing on both feet, with more confidence & taking risks and putting yourself out there with the gusto you were meant to give the world and he purred to himself, "My work here is done."
But it does hurt and it's so hard and their love is so perfectly pure. My thoughts are with you & I'm trying not to ruin my eye makeup, but I am sad.

i'm so sorry (hug) *sniff*

Laurie, my sympathy to you and Roy's siblings! I am so sorry....

as someone else who sings to my cat and whose cat filled up the empty side of my bed when my husband left, i just wanted to say i'm sorry. your readers will miss roy too -- i know i will! i hope sobakowa takes it okay.

(and now i have to stop crying because i left my office door open, even though my friend warned me not to read this until i got home. oops.)

much love!

I'm so very sorry for your loss.

What a beautiful story. I feel your loss deeply...you brought me to tears (so much that the people in the cubes next to me stopped by to find out why I was crying...)

Beautiful story about a wonderful cat that lived with a wonderful person. Roy will live on in all our hearts. Take care of yourself in this difficult time.

Now excuse me while I go reapply my eye makeup. I feel like I just lost one of my own.

I'm certain there is a special spot in Kitty Heaven just for Roy... What a beautiful story, such a sad, sad end. Thank you for letting him touch our lives if even just a little.

Dear Laurie- as the mother of 2 rescued kitties, I know how our pets become "little people" and seem to sense our feelings even before we are sure of them ourselves. Your caring for and loving Roy warmed his soul, and I am sure he knew that from the first day he moved in with you! Thinking of you - becky

Laurie, I have had a lot of cats in my life. A lot. Like, the family on the street with double-digit cats. And I like cats. I have two now. I like them, theycrawl all over me and purr and are cute. I have never been too intensely connected with cats, but I like them. A lot of my cats have died.

But I have never, ever cried over a cat's death before today. I'm sorry Roy has left, but I'm glad he was there for you.

You gave each other the best gifts ever. Glad you had each other, we all need that 'great kitty love of our life'.

I am so very, very sorry for your loss.

You've got us all coming out of the woodwork today. Nothing like the sympathy of a great love lost to illicit a cyber hug. Many a cat has passed on to that special kitty place and each one still lives in my heart. Thanks for sharing Roy's story and for giving him such a great cat life. Sending you a million hugs, just when you need them.

That's the most beautiful thing I've read in a very long while. You've captured exactly what my little Hobie - who died a year ago today - meant to me. Thank you.

Damn - - I barely see to type I'm crying so much . . .

I went home on my lunch hour after reading this post and hugged the stuffin's out of my poor old 17-year-old girl, Callie.

{{{{HUGS}}}} to you from a Central Illinois reader, Laurie.

Thank you for sharing Roy's story and his love with all of us. You gave him an amazing life, full of love and happiness, and he'll always be with you.

Katherine and my post got switched?

okay, i just lost my composure and started bawling, and i'm just a READER. aww, sugar, i am so sorry. take comfort knowing you brightened what started out as a tough life for a tough kitty.

Laurie, I ... am having trouble finding the words. I am so very, very sorry, and I hope you're finding comfort from all the wonderful posts being shared with you here. While most of us have never met you, we still love you and we feel your pain.

(((hugs))) from Texas.

i'm so sorry for your loss - hearing of Roy's passing made me cry - but hearing of all the joy and love you brought each other makes me glad in my heart. you rescued each other.

You brought back memories of my beloved cat TwoFace. I was there with her from the moment she was born until she died only 3 short years later. Everyone told me I should have her put down after the vet told me her kidneys were shot and her liver was going, but I never felt like that was my decision to make since she didn't seem to be in any pain. She and I had another year together. She slept on my chest with her loud, rumbling purr and I sang My Funny Valentine to her every night. I felt like I had taken responsibility for that life and it was important that I do everything within my power to make it as full of love and catnip as possible. She knew she was loved. I'm sure Roy did too. May your grief be tempered by the love of the rest of the gang and the sweet memories of the wonderful Roy. You were blessed enough to find each other and we were blessed to have you share him with all of us. Thank you, Laurie. And goodbye, sweet Roy. Say hi to TwoFace for me.

I'm sure Roy knew how lucky he was to have found you and he showed you every day how much he appreciated it and you. It's so hard to say goodbye to a beloved pet, you did it in a truly beautiful way.

I'm crying for you now. How a cat can crawl into a person's heart and prop it up, I'll never know. (((HUGS)))

Laurie I'm so sorry.

Blessings to you and to Roy. There's lots of bacon at the rainbow bridge...

What a beautiful tribute. Can't stop crying.

thank you for sharing.....

peace - d

Huge (((HUGS))) for you. I wish there were something more I could say or do, but please know that you are in my thoughts.

I'm so sorry.

Being comment Number 346, there's probably not a lot I could say that everyone else hasn't already said. You just broke my heart, I'm sitting here crying, and have a luncheon to go to in 15 minutes. Thank you for giving Roy a good, loving life.

Laurie,
I am so sorry to hear about your dear friend Roy passing on. I'm happy for Roy because he had a wonderful friend in you. You will grieve his leaving you but you are both better and lucky for having each other. I can't say more. Hugs~

. . .And clearly he had a Mummy who deserved him!

If I don't cry for her when my parents' sweet silky terrier Lilly dies, I will cry for my parents, and my little sister, who is now 21 and has had Lilly around since she was six. Today I cried for you. Thank you for telling the story of Roy.

I'm so, so sorry for your loss. For what it's worth, this entry made me feel like I knew this kitty, so it's more than a fitting tribute to a creature you loved.

(I've had a couple of special love-of-my-life kitties like that and I still think about the one who's no longer with me, almost every day.)

Sending you my sympathy.

Holdin' you close, Sweetie..he'll come back to you, you know that, right? He will. Watch for him.
XOXOX

yet another first time poster.
just wanted to let you know that you and roy are in my prayers.
as much as he was exactly what you needed, it sounds like you were exactly what he needed as well. he was very lucky to have found you.
all the best.

Oh. God. I saw the pic of Roy and my heart fell. I started reading but then I skipped to the end, knowing what I would find, and started crying. So here I am, at work, crying over a cat I never knew, owned by a woman I've never met, on the opposite side of the country. Your beautiful prose made Roy a part of my life, and now I am deeply saddened. And yet amazed at how you were able to post so eloquently and calmly about your main man. You're a wonder.

Laurie, my heart goes out to you.

Oh, I am so sorry to hear that Roy passed away, but so happy that you found each other when you did.

Oh Laurie, halfway through your post when you started using the past tense, I knew he was gone and started crying. I lost my old man dog, Riley, last year and I still cry over him. My deepest sympathies.

I'm so sorry to hear this news. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts, and sending love your way.

{{{{{{Laurie}}}}} I'm so sorry about Roy. Such a sweet boy.

With sympathy for your loss.
What gifts you and Roy brought to each other's lives!

I'm so sorry for your loss.

I lost my dog Charlie last year and I was amazed to see that my cat KC missed him just as much as I did.

My heart goes out to you and your babies.

The most beautiful eulogy.

But its only his cat suit that he took off - his soul lives on.

A Wiccan friend of mine says that if its karmically appropriate, our animal companions will re-incarnate and find us again. So maybe in 3 months or so, you might just find a little furball who loves bacon and tells you his name.

I'm so sorry. I remember how much it hurt when I lost my dog last year. Hugs for you and your kitties.

My deepest sympathies. The whole internet loved Roy.

What a touching story - so sorry for your loss.

Laurie,
My heart and deepest sympathy go out to you.
Love,
Alice

When you started writing in past tense, I knew. I just knew what happened. Halfway through your post, before I got to the part that told us what happened, I knew, and I started to cry. Because I know what it is like to lose an animal who is so much a part of you that they're IN YOUR HEAD, (and you're in theirs).

Roy's life was made infinitely sweet because of your rescue -- you gave him kitty-cat heaven on earth. I hope you'll take comfort in that.

God Bless ya, Laurie. And may He give you some comfort today.

oh wow. i was wondering how mr. roy was doing, and i didn't expect to hear he died. i'm so sorry. hug your kitties extra tight, and tell them it's from a random person on the internet. soba will understand.

Oh Laurie I am so sorry, I know how much Roy means to you.
I'm thinking of you at this time.
Goodbye Roy, safe journey
amber in england

I'm so, so sorry.

I'm sitting here at work, trying in vain to stop the tears.

It's been years since I lost my Zeppo and Jake kitties. Perhaps they are with Roy, showing all the residents how cool it is to be a cat who was so loved.

I am very sad for your loss. I know Roy is in kitty heaven and that he is now one of your angels. Cause you are his. I am so sorry.

Sitting at my desk at work bawling...so sorry! I know what it's like to lose a loved one, especially someone so close...my sympathies, friend :(

Laurie, I don't know where you found the strength at this time to write such a moving tribute to Roy but thank you nevertheless. Roy was the best cat EVER and I shall miss him terribly even though I've never met him and have three monsters of my own. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that you gave Roy the best years of his life.

{{{hugs}}}

Aw. (((((((HUGS))))))

I understand about the cat of your heart. This is lovely and fitting, and you deserve a medal for writing it through the pain. Thank you for this.

Oh sweetie, I'm so very sorry. Two of my cats have died in the past two weeks. Tommy was my Roy. I wish that I had something magic to say that would soothe you and make it better, but I don't. Just know that I understand and that sometimes an animal and a human have a connection that can't be understood. That kind of love never ever dies.

Please call or email me if you need to. I'm so incredibly sorry.

I'm crying at my desk right now. That was such a beautiful post - I'm so sorry for your loss.

I am so, so sorry for your loss. It's so hard to lose such a dear friend.

Laurie,

I too am so sorry for your loss, and sitting here in tears. Kitties are extraordinary, and I often wonder how people can say they're not "cat people". It's nice to know that there are other people out there, as crazy about their furry friends as I am.

i'm so sorry about Roy. That first pic you posted is just adorable. now i have to go back to a meeting and i'm all sad about Roy and the other good cats i've known in my life.

sorry.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. I've loved the Roy stories the best of all your cat stories.

oh, laurie- feeling so so sorry for you. be well.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. Cats are amazing and he was clearly an amazing cat. Hugs to you and the other ones.

Rene

You miss him so much because you loved him so much. I'm glad you both had such love and cared for each other so well. My sympathies to you and the rest of your kitty family.

Oh gosh Laurie! I'm so sorry.

How lucky are folks like you and I that we can have such amazing people (and by people i mean cats and dogs) come in to our lives and teach us and love us and always leave us wanting more. It's the fleeting nature of our relationships that make them all the more beautiful. And oh yeah, heaven is BUILT on bacon!

I'm so very sorry to hear about Roy. You wrote a very touching memorial to your beloved cat. It even had ole hard-hearted me crying. Every time I read "Get Fuzzy" and see snaggle-toothed Bucky, I think of your Roy. I'm a lurker, but read you every day and love to read stories about everyone -- Soba, Bob, and Frankie, but most of all I loved reading about Roy. I hope you can find comfort in all the memories you have of your special Roy. He was lucky to find you and you were luckier to find him. I'm off to give my 4 kitties hugs in memory of ROY!!!

**hugs** and warm thoughts for all of you -- Renee in NC

oh.my.god. i am sitting here crying at work.

that was a beautiful story and you have a beautiful heart. what a nice way to remember him.

(sniff) must compose myself.

Via con Dios, Senor Roy.

Hugs to you, Laurie.

What an amazing tribute to an amazing cat! I'm glad that the two of you had each other.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I was reading the entry, and thinking how sweet it was, and how much you love him, and as I started to get toward the end, I realized you were speaking of Roy in the past tense, and my eyes just got wide and misted up. Sweet and sad.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry about Roy. Even though I never met Roy, I felt I knew him from your stories and pictures of him. I am crying at work and I will give my 13 and 11 year old cats a hug when I get home from work. I am sure you made his life a happy one.

I'm so very sorry, Laurie. My condolences.

Oh Laurie... I'm so so sad for you. But Roy had a wonderful, loving second chance with you, and you made him so happy.

Geez, it's a good thing I'm working at home today because I'm so weepy.

Hugs from Atticus, Mae and Gandalf and their Mom.

Oh, sweetie. I'm so sad for you and your little kitty family. But not so much for beautiful Roy: I think that Roy had the best life and the best family he possibly could.

I'm so sorry.

And now my cat's looking at me wondering what's wrong, as I sit here crying over a cat I never met.

I am so sorry. I've been there, twice, and I miss both my boys, even after years. That special relationship is such a gift. I am happy that you had each other. Can any of us ask more out of life than to love and be loved, and to pass on with our most special person singing "our" song?

I love your writing. Your posts touch my heart - they are so honest, and so eloquent.

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Sounds like Roy was a grand cat.

Roy, I hope things are swell in the land of small flightless birds and slow, fat mice, and neverending fields of catnip. buen viaje.

I am so very sorry.

Oh, hunny. That is a great tribute to the illustrious Roy. As one who is still feeling the loss of the most loved one, my heart goes out to you.

I am sorry about your loss. He was a great guy and a great friend. I will go home tonight and groom Coco for a loooong time.

Damn it! You should have warned me this would not have a happy ending! I'm very sorry to hear about Roy. I know how scared I was last week when my kitty was really sick so I will keep you in my thoughts...

How lucky to have had a love so fine.

This is so beautifully written and I'm thinking of you as you miss Roy. What a wonderful relationship you had! It's so good you had each other.

Oh, I'm so sorry. Roy was a very lucky kitty to find you for a mommy. And this story about him is just lovely.

*hugs*

Laurie,

I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing the story of how Roy got his name. I know he was loved and that is all that matters.

Ah, Laurie. My condolences. Nothing hurts quite like the loss of a pet. Just be happy in the thought that you gave him the best possible life - he probably thought that after what he had been through, he didn't have to die to go to heaven. You provided it here on earth.

Hugs to all from Cathy, Purrcy and Taffy.

Delurking to say I am so very sorry for you loss Luarie. As the owner of my own feline best friend who lights up my life all I can say is I'm so sorry. I will miss the adorable pictures of the cute old man as I am sure you will too. Take care.

Delurking from South Africa. You wrote a very moving tribute to your dear Roy. I am thinking of you. Lots of hugs and nose kisses to Soba. Kind regards Alida

Oh no - that's the second sad cat story I've read today. I'm glad you and Roy found each other and brought comfort and happiness to one another. Why can't kitties live forever?

I am so so sorry to hear Roy has passed on. The death of a friend is so hard to take. Sending warm thoughts your way.

I don't post a comment very often, but this post really got me. (I read your blog often and always enjoy your witty posts).

I loved reading about Roy, and was very sad to hear he has died. Your post brought tears to my eyes, and made me want to run home and hug my own crazy cats!

Drop by http://www.petpeoplehelp.com if you find you need some support. It's the company I work for, but also a great source of information and help!

Oh gosh, I hate reading these stories. I love animals so much it makes me cry. I'm so sorry Laurie. I didn't even know there was anything wrong with Roy! Sending a cyber-hug your way.

What a beautiful tribute. I will miss him. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Oh, man, I was reading the story and started to get this horrible sinking feeling in my stomach...

I'm so very sorry :( I'm glad he went peacefully, I hope there is a lot of bacon where he is now, and I hope the other three are helping you cope with this :(

I can't have pets where I live, so I'm just going to go hug my husband now.

I'm sooo sorry. I understand how you feel, I lost by best friend dog a while back, and now I love my cat too. Pets have such wonderful souls. Now I have to go have a good cry for you in the bathroom, so my coworkers don't think I'm crazy.
Love and hugs

Add me to the long list of people crying at work right now... I'm so sorry to hear that he has passed. You gave him a wonderful life after such a rough start. My deepest sympathy to you.

So very sorry to hear about Roy. It sounds like he had a wonderful life with you.

I lost my first cat the same week a long time boyfriend broke up with me. I cried so hard for that cat! She was a stray we took in off the streets and kept knowing that she was sick. I'm glad that you have other cats to hug and try to get you through. It sounds like Roy would like that. I need to go hug my cats now.

I have no words....my heart fell when I started reading and realized that your blog today was your obituary for a dear friend. I've come to know Roy through your blog and to know that your love for each other was boundless, so my heart just aches.

The hardest part of loving an animal is knowing that I will someday have to say goodbye to them. And yet, I would not (could not) exist without a furry friend in my life.

May your other babies be as much a comfort to you as you are to them during your mutual grief. I will send up a little prayer for all of you.

Laurie, I've never posted before, but I have enjoyed hearing about your cats and it's clear that Roy was loved very much and a very special boy. My heart goes out to you, I've been there, too. It stinks. Think of the good times and the fact that you gave him such a wonderful life.

oh laurie, i'm so sorry! i've enjoyed all the stories and pictures of the kitty posse since i started reading your blog ... and i'm going to miss old roy very much. y'all were lucky to have one another. very very lucky :)
i know it hurts. and it will for a long long time ... i still get sad and teary over the loss of my bruti (a german shepherd) many years ago.

Laurie - although I only know you virtually through your writings, I know how very real, and un-virtual your pain must be in losing Roy. I'm so sorry he passed.

Ah, Laurie. ::hugs:: I have been there. I have been dreading this day since you told us about Roy's condition. I am glad he had a chance to have a really good life with you, Soba, Frankie and Bob (and even Mr. X for a while).

We all loved Roy through your stories and we are glad he was there for you and you were there for him.

Well thanks a lot. You made my mascara streak dangit. I never post on your blog, but I had to this time. I'm so sorry for your loss. I know that pain all too deeply. Big hugs.

I'm so sorry to hear of Roy's passing - he was a great guy and he brought joy to all of us - even those of us who just knew him through the blog.

He's in kitty heaven now, playing with all the other cats and having a ball, I'm sure of it!!!

Hope you're doing okay.

I almost never comment, but I cried at the end of this post. I don't know why I didn't see where it was going. But I am sorry for your loss.

(We have a turkey named Roy. Weird.)

Oh, Laurie. I'm so terribly sorry. He was a treasure.

Dear Laurie. Sir Roy. I'm relieved to know that he had you there when he left. I'm feeling that he chose the time.
When my beloved Sir Thomi went over the Rainbow Bridge, we were together. I sang his song to him.
There is a website regarding the Zen of Cat, which helped me so much throughout the grieving time. Thomi's ashes are in a container on his special tray, with mementos in a special box - whiskers, snippet of fur and a poem.
I have a new lovely cat, Sheldon from Sitka, who was meant to be with me. We are a pair of slightly more than middle-aged red-heads, enjoying our time together.
I still dream of Sir Thomi.

My deepest sympathies--I'm so very sorry for your loss. Such a pretty cat.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. *hug* There really aren't words. He was a Very Good Cat and an even Better Friend. I'm glad you had each other.

It hardly seems worth adding my comment to the 426 others already here, but I'm so sorry for your loss.
Samantha

I love this story so much. And, unsurprisingly, I know how you feel. I miss my kitty so much still. I can't bear to get a new one to replace her.

Peace.

Laurie - I am so so sorry. What a wonderful story of Roy. You gave each other so much love. My thoughts are with you.

Halfway through your story I started to tear up, because I knew in my heart what was coming.

It's funny. I signed the papers on my divorce three weeks ago. Last week, I tried to burn my house down (accidentally, I *swear*). And when do I cry? when I read about the love you and Roy shared.

I adopted a bitty little thing named Rudy a month ago. He's a little $***, and I already love him with all my heart. I am so happy for you that you had those years with Roy, and grieve his loss with you, Laurie

I'm so so sorry about Roy. So sorry for your loss.

Smiling and crying at the same time - which is just how those cats love it. I'll give my 2 shelter-rejects (all black cat who couldn't get adopted + a 3-legged dog) an extra snuggle or 200 in Roy's honor. I hope he's enjoying the big sunny-spot in the sky...

I so sorry about Roy. What a nice tribute. The two of you had a nice life together.

I'm so sorry for you loss of Roy the Cat. I wish I could reach out and hug you. I'm glad you have such great memories, they will help you get through this awful time. He was so lucky to have a human who loved him so unconditionally.

Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story.

Joni
(1st time poster in Milwaukee, WI)

Beautiful tribute to your wonderfully wise companion and family member. I'm glad you had the chance to save one another. *hug* My thoughts are with you.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I started reading today's post and when I realized you were speaking about Roy in the past tense I got a lump in my throat & tears in my eyes. All of us out here in cat land are putting you and Roy in our thoughts and prayers.

You've written a lovely tribute. And Roy was a lucky little guy to have had such a great "retirement", & a person and fellow kitties who understood him--and loved him--so well.

*big hug & a kleenex*

Laurie, I'm so sorry. Am also crying at work with the hundreds of good people around the country crying at work over Roy and for your loss.

I'm glad you both found each other and had the time that you had together. My TKK and I have a similar story. I'm her third owner and her last, always to love her. She is everything a cat and a friend should be. We have a song too.

I'm so sorry that the sad part of the story has come for you with Roy. He was a great cat. It's not often I feel affection for strangers cats and yours are pretty special.

I hope you are well.

*OtterHuggles*

I am so, so sorry to hear of your loss. Like many out there, I had a little pal who crept into my heart and rearranged its furniture. I ached when I came from work one night to find my little buddy dead in his cage (a hamster, sorry I forgot to mention it). I still wish I could have been with him at his end. he was the nearest I ever had to a child. He used to sit on my stomach while I watched TV and shared my popcorn. I trained him to run around the sofa in his plastic ball.

It seems silly to non-pet owners (especially when I talk about my Hamster), but we know how special that kind of friendship is, we just know.

I think our Queen got it right in a message of condolence:

"Grief is the price we pay for love."

P.S. I'm gonna go hug the stuffing outta my kitty now.

Laurie,

I am so sorry for your loss. Be comforted in the fact that you gave Roy a good life after his tough beginning. Your love enabled him to trust again. He'll always be with you as a cat of your heart.
(((Hugs to you))) and pets for Roy's posse at home.

I am so sorry for you and your kitty family. Tears!

As an aside, they did a study with dogs that knew when their owners were getting home and found that it worked even if someone drove the owner randomly around such that the owner didn't really know ahead of time. So, we all know cats are at least as smart as that.
http://paranormal.about.com/library/weekly/aa012201a.htm

I'm sorry that Roy passed. I know that you will miss him terribly--but thank goodness for the memories.

Oh Laurie, I am so, so sorry. I only met him once, but he was such a sweet cat. I know I haven't commented in awhile, but I've been here lurking all along :)

Halfway through reading this it began to dawn on me, and then a couple of sentences later I was crying and I haven't been able to stop. He knew how much you loved him, and he most certainly loved you. And you've written him a beautiful, beautiful eulogy.

I've had to say goodbye to two of my cats in the past two years, and I know I'll have to say goodbye to a third within the next couple of years. Every day with her is a treasure. Laurie, I think this is maybe the second or third time I've left a comment for you in a couple of years of reading, but I had to tell you how much you've moved me today, and how you've reminded me that life's not all about deadlines and groceries and scheduling. Sometimes it's just about the simplicity of loving your cat.

Whoa. I am so sorry Laurie. Keep your chin up kiddo, we're all here thinking of you!

Laurie, I've been reading you for a long time and I feel like a good friend just lost a pet. I am so very sorry for your loss.

I've never posted a comment to your blog before but I do read it almost every day. I just had to say how sorry I am to hear about Roy and to send you a hug. I'm glad I only have 10 more minutes of work so I can run home and hug my kittys. {{{hugs}}}

Big hugs Laurie. I'm so sorry.

Delurking to say I'm so sorry! Losing a pet is awful.

i am totally crying at my desk.

what a beautiful, sweet story.

Dear Laurie, I wish I knew what to say. I never post comments here but I want to convey to you my deepest sympathies as well as my gratitude for your sharing with (and entertainment of) the rest of us, imperfect humanity. Not just today but everyday. My old man of 16 years passed on in April and I haven't let on to anyone how crushed I was and how sad I still am because I thought no one would get it. Now, I would not dare to suggest that you're a standard of normalcy (never!), but your charming eulogy and your clearly painful sense of loss makes me feel like it's ok to mourn a four-legged furball. So I've gone through a pile of Kleenex now and strangely, I feel a lot better. Thank-you Laurie. May the memories of Roy continue to comfort you.

Like the 433 other posters, I am sitting here at work, crying my eyes out, mascara running down my cheeks, wanting to hug you even though I have never met you. All of us who have had cats whisper their names to us know that the bond is unbreakable and incredibly intimate. I have been reading your blog for months, laughing into my fist to keep others in my office from noticing I'm definitely NOT WORKING, but have not been inspired to actually come out of lurking before. This did it darlin'. My "Roy" was a little black and white shorty named Luna who we lost four years ago and I still sob every time I think about her. All my good wishes to you and your furry babies. Thank you for the gift of laughter you give me and everyone else who reads this.

Longtime reader and lurker here. I've been crying for at least 5 minutes now. I'm so sorry for the loss of your sweet, sweet Roy. Your story brought back the pain of my losing Elroy last year. Reading your words got me through that time last year. I wish there was something I could say or do to return the solace you provided me then.

I'm typing this through tears . . .

I am so sorry for your loss.

{{Big Hugs}}

Oh my - I read your blog every day and although I've never posted, I feel I know you and I laugh and cry through all your adventures. But this one got to me - I'm sorry for your loss, but you did a wonderful thing adopting Roy and he was the perfect cat for you and Mr. X. I'm sure your other cats probably miss him as much as you do. Hang in there - time heals!!

Lois

Oh Laurie :(

From experience I know that nothing I say can take away the pain but know that myself and my two spoiled brat cats, Mojo and Bacardi, send you and Soba and Bob and Frankie love and hugs.

I'm at work crying quietly right now because as crazy as it seems I miss Roy. In reading your blog these past two years I've come to know all your critters and he will be missed sorely. He was a beautiful soul and a blessing to you as much as you were a blessing to him.

I'm sending you big hugs and an even bigger glass of wine.

Oh, Laurie! I'm so sorry. I'm sitting here at work crying for you both. It never gets any easier, saying goodbye.

Vincent was my Roy. We were together 10 years and 6 days until he passed from cancer February 4, 2000, and like you I was right there beside him singing silly "catsongs" to him like I'd always done.

The moment I saw the title of your post I had a bad feeling about the ending. Roy was such an amazing cat and I'm feeling your heartbreak. I'm incredibly sorry for your loss and had to wait until the sobbing to subside before I could compose myself enough to post. From me and my cat family to yours, our deepest sympathies.

RIP Roy. Long Live Roy.

Laurie, I'm so sorry about Roy. I'll be thinking about you and the other kitties today.

Here's to Roy, the love of your life! It is so wonderful to have that special bond with an animal, a bond that transcends the ordinary. I had such a bond with a stray starving abused puppy that grew into a huge "dober-thing" and who became my guardian. Enjoy your memories and remember his love!

My condolences to you and your furry family. Our own Simon died some months ago, after a protracted illness. It doesn't hurt any less, knowing that it's coming, does it?

(Raising Coke can) to Roy,
Simon,
Tardy (one of the smartest people, furry or not, I've ever loved)
Snapper
Velcro
Honey
Peach
Woofer (not a dog, but the queen of the pack nonetheless)
PJ
Liddy

I'm so sorry. I was in tears too - but i'm so glad that you found each other when you needed each other. You made his life a good thing and brought balance against the terrible things he had been through.

Oh, Laurie. Thank you for sharing your love and grief. What an incredible gift you gave your "smokey lonesome of a cat."

Oh, no. I am so sorry for your loss.

I am glad you and Roy found one another. I can't imagine a greater love affair.

I'm crying. I'm so sorry. My two teen daughters are at their grandma's this week, and since they ask about "crazy cat lady" (you--they aren't knitters and don't understand the purl and further don't understand the aunt purl when they know your name is Laurie) every day, I don't know how I'll tell them about Roy. They have three kitties, and they will both feel your sorrow (they're good kids, my girls).

i'm so sorry for your loss.

I have no words. Your post was so sweet, I can barely see through the tears to type. I'm so sorry for your loss.

I'm so sorry. What a lovely tribute to a lovely cat.

Laurie,

I am so sorry! Roy was a sweet boy and I know he will be missed. I am trying so hard not to cry here at my new job. I totally understand how you feel, I lost my love, Boo (a cockateil), in November after having him in my life for 24 years and I still very much miss him.

*HUGS!*

I am so sorry! I know how hard the parting can be. Roy had a wonderful life with you. I am sorry that you didn't have more time together!

I am so sorry! I know how hard the parting can be. Roy had a wonderful life with you. I am sorry that you didn't have more time together!

((((((hugs))))))

Thank you for telling me how Roy got his name.

I've been reading you for years, never posted any comment, but this evening, I feel just like I have known Roy for real. Big hug from France, I'm so sorry.

I'm so, so sorry, both to you and the rest of the kitties who surely miss him as well.

Laurie,

I am so very, very sorry to hear of your loss. There are few things in life more difficult than losing a beloved animal who provided unconditional love and support. It just makes your heart hurt. My thoughts are with you and your other three kitties.

I can barely see through the tears. How lovely to be loved. I don't know who was luckier, you or Roy.

oh, i dont even like cats, and it made me cry :-(

oh, i dont even like cats, and it made me cry :-(

It has taken me 30 minutes to get myself together enough to make this comment. I'm so sorry, Laurie. I know he was more than "just a pet;" he was your boy. Just be grateful for the time you had together.

On a scary note: Bob is now the man of the house. Yikes!

HUGS HUGS HUGS HUGS.

Here, have a hanky.

HUGS.

i just don't know what to say, i feel something has just broken in my heart...this cat really was a treasure and i am so thankful you shared him with us! All i can think of to calm me (and you)down is: this cat was LOVED!

I only knew Roy through your blog, but I came to love him and his wise ways.. He will be missed by so many.

What a beautiful tribute to Roy. You both were so very lucky to have each other. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you.

I'm bawling my eyes out right now. I'm so sorry for your loss. Roy was a sweet soul and I am glad he found you.

My heart goes out to you. And I'm crying too. He'll be waiting for you someday. I promise.

HUGS

Post #355: Oh WHY didn't I realize from the beginning about this post? It started off so cute, as usual and hit me like a ton of bricks!! Now, I'm openly sobbing and my desk is all wet and my co-workers think I'm crazy! (crazier, actually)

Oh, CAP! I can't express, except through multitudes of tears, how sorry I am. I mourn with you, as I loved Roy from afar. I've been invested with you and your feline family for over a year! You write so beautifully, the sad news is made that much sadder.

I'll never forget how you made all of us share owners in your furry divorce settlement.

You have my sincerest condolences. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do from Philadelphia!

P.S. If you send me your favorite picture of Roy, I will try my hardest to cross-stitch his likeness for posterity. It would be my pleasure.

Oh dear Laurie sweetheart..........
My little cat Spirit was only 6 when I took her to the vet because I thought she didn't look right. Seemed a little too tired.

Vet: "you need to make a humane choice here"

Me: "...Whuh?! She was perfectly fine until 2 days before, what is wrong? You must be talking about someone else's cat!?!"

Vet: "Her creatinine levels are the highest I've seen and she is in full renal failure.....kidney faliure."

Me: "Whuh?.....Why?....How!?!....I'm telling you, she was fine! I never saw any signs of anything out of the normal! How can this be? How did I not see any signs of this?!??!"

Vet: "Some animals will hide their pain from their owners until they just can't anymore.....because they love you"

That was almost 9 years ago and I still miss my little Spirit girl EVERY DAY!
For about a year after that, occasionally I would have a dream that I was feeding her, playing with her, or petting her while she was on my lap. They were so real. My grandmother (full of the old world ways) told me that it really was my little Spirit cat visiting me, trying to comfort me.
I believe, in every way that a broken heart can, that that was true.

And I believe, your Roy will visit you in yours.

Oh, honey. I'm sorry.

Laurie, I am so sorry. I can't imagine the pain you must be feeling and I am sending you such good, positive, healing energy your way.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. ((Hugs))

Oh honey, I'm so sorry for your loss. :(

damn. not much else I can say. I know this kind of love, it hurts and heals so much. so, so sorry. robin

Laurie,

I am so very sorry for your loss. Thankfully you found him when he obviously needed you the most, and was there when you needed him most. It seems to me that he did his job on this earth quite well. He will be surely missed.

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear - poor Roy. And poor Laurie. I guess if there's any comfort to take from the situation (besides all the years of love you gave each other) is the fact that he died with you, knowing you loved him. {{{Hugs}}} to you and the rest of your furry babies.

So sorry.

So sad now. I'm sorry.

I'm crying. I'm so, so sorry for your loss. Bless you for loving him and may you find comfort in knowing that your love saved him.

Barb

i'm ever so sorry.

Buster, Elvis, Tess (even though she's a dog) and I all send love and kisses to you and the kitties. That was a beautiful post - and he was a beautiful cat. Thank you for sharing! XO

i'm so sorry for your loss. Your essay moved me to tears. Thank you for sharing it.

Laurie,

My heart goes out to you. I went and hugged my kitties through my tears, they liked to look at Roy's picture on my laptop. You are so fortunate, as is Roy, to have found a kindred spirit to get through the tough times and you both lived a better life because of each other.

Ah Laurie. I'm so sorry for your loss. It doesn't help, I know, but remember that he loved you as much as, if not more than, you loved him. His spirit will live on.

Oh, I am so sorry. But thank you for telling us his story. I'm going to give my Annabelle a lot of extra lovin' just for Mr. Roy.

I am so sorry that Roy had to leave. They love us so hard & try to hang in there, stay with us, love life, love their people.

He's in great company, on his throne, wearing his crown of light, overseeing all and watching over you every minute.

Soon, he'll be back in another body with another lifetime ahead of him. Roy is needed here.

Laurie I have been reading your blog for a while now - you have made me laugh, made me cry and I have seen myself in so many of your posts (like a lot of people do I'm sure!). My heart has never ached like it does for you today. ((HUGS)) to you, Soba, Bob and Frankie. I'm so sorry.

I can add nothing original. I just wanted to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss.

I'm glad you were able to be with Roy, to sing to him. I'm sure he was too.

Laurie,
I'm so sorry sweetie. My you find comfort in knowing so many of us are thinking of you. I'm glad you were able to share your life with Roy and that he brought you much joy and comfort during the times you needed him.
Take care sweetie,
~dani

That sweet kitty face and your sweeter words set me to weeping. Your ability to connect with your readers in a personal way is a wonderful gift. Roy was a wonderful gift too, Laurie. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Warm thoughts and hugs.

Wow, Laurie, that was beautiful. I'm so sorry about Roy.

Oh Laurie, my heart is broken today...thanks for bringing Roy into my life... he was a dream.

*crying*

Oh, I'm so sad for you and your feline family. I'm sending hugs to all of you.

Wasn't Roy the luckiest cat to be so loved by such a grand human? It is wonderful that you two had found each other. I'm sorry for the loss of your dear friend.

I'm so sorry for your loss. My best bud, Izzy, waited for me so he could die in my arms about 2 years ago. Cats are amazing creatures and touch our lives in many wonderful ways. They always seem to know what we're feeling. It sounds like both of you gave each other some great years.

Many condolences! I could tell how much you loved that cat (by the many blog posts and photos, of course!), and this must be such a blow to you.

Laurie, I'm not a pet person by a long shot but I've loved getting to know your cats here. And I can't even believe I'm all choked up reading about Roy -- I can only imagine how you're feeling and all I can think to say is that I'm so so sorry you're without someone you love so deeply.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. A big hug to you from the other coast. Peace be with Roy.

Maybe some solace in knowing there are three other awesomely awesome cats for Roy to hang out with wherever kittycats go after their nine lives: http://foodiefarmgirl.blogspot.com/2007/06/farm-life-farm-love-farm-loss.html.

rest in peace, roy. i'm so sorry to hear of your passing. xxoo.

Oh (((Laurie))) I'm so sorry. What a wonderful story of you and Roy. I imagine he's with my little old man cat, Patrol, now.

I'm so, so sorry. Roy sounded like a great cat.

I am sitting here with tears down my face. I have been reading your blog for some time now and have gotten to know Roy...and love him in that special way you can love something on the internets.

Your story about Roy's name reminded me of how my cat Bert got his name. Originally, I was going to get a cat and name him pumpkin. He was no pumpkin...a Bert.

So sorry for your loss! I don't know what I can say to make you feel better...but we are all there for you in the blog world.

I'm so sorry! I'm glad he had you! and that you had him. He was certainly a special soul.

OH! You didn't WARN me that this was sad! I'm sitting here just bawling!

I'm SOOOOOO sorry!!!! We just had to put one of our kitties to sleep so he would not longer suffer...

Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm so glad Roy was there for you all those years, especially during those times when you needed him most.

So sorry to hear your news. Thinking of you and Roy.

I am so sorry about your loss Laurie. (((((HUGS))))

Laurie I'm so sorry for your loss. You gave Roy such a wonderful life after his rough beginning. My kids and I are thinking of you both today.

My deepest sympathies for your loss. Hugs to you, Laurie, and to Soba, Frankie and Bob. Roy was truly loved and he will be missed.

I know you miss him terribly. Just remember what wonderful years he had because of you.

Laurie,
I'm so very sorry for your loss. Reading your blog today helped me understand how meaningful he was to you. We are thinking of you today and hope your sadness lifts soon.

Love,
Allison and Evan

Oh laurie. Hugs to you and your furry family. Thank you for sharing Roy with us.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

What an incredibly sweet story. Thank you so much for sharing it. I'll be thinking of you today

that was a beautiful post. I am very sorry for your loss. At least you were both able to bring joy into the others life. Take care.

I've been a lurker for a while, but just like many others wanted to come out of hiding to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. I know for a fact after reading your entire blog that you are one strong woman and after some grieving you will be able to think of sweet Roy and smile instead of cry. I'm sure he'll still be waiting by your door when you come home, just in a different way.

*hugs*

Oh Laurie! I am so sorry for your loss... That was a wonderful story of Roy. We'll all miss him.

Laurie! I'm so sorry! *hugs!*

Laurie, I'm so sorry about Roy. We just said good-bye to our dog at the end of May. She was fifteen and a half, and it was the first time either my husband or I had ever done that. It's awful, and at the same time, you never lose them.

What a beautiful story about your dear Roy. My heart is so very sad for you. You will be in my thoughts.

What a great memorial. Roy's eating some extra bacon in kitty heaven now. you and the other wee fuzzies are in my thoughts.

Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss. What a great story of Roy's name. I have been thinking of Roy after the passing Monday of my sister's 17-year-old cat, Claude. Your post brought tears to my eyes. I have not had a cat in a long time, but Claude was always glad to see me, and sit in my lap and demand I put down my knitting and pet him. He sat in my lap and sometimes stood on the keyboard, purring in my face, when I used my sister's computer.

I'm so sorry to hear that Roy died. I loved him from afar, too.

I want to commend you for being such a good Mom to Roy. He got what few animals or people get--someone devoted to making each day of his life with them good and full. I don't think he could have had a better life after meeting you and you redeemed what seemed to be a hard life that came before you.

Let us all love our Roys like you did.

Laurie -- I am truly sorry for your loss. I will be keeping you in my thoughts today.

Love, Beth

Oh Laurie...

I don't know if you'll read this or not, but I just wanted to leave a note saying how much your story of Roy got to me.

I have a kitty of my own and I love her more than I thought I would love an animal. I've told my husband time and time again that when she passes on, I will be a mess and he had better be prepared to help me get through it.

It's funny how pets affect our lives, isn't it? My thoughts are with you today.

Oh Laurie! I'm at work bawling my eyes out at work. Saying I'm sorry isn't good enough but it's all I've got.

My Hobbes was to me what Roy was to you. After my divorce, he let me cry into his fat fuzzy little back as often as I needed to and never complained about the wet fur. In fact, he'd just lay next to me purring. He was the closest friend I've ever had and loved me like no one has before or since. I still miss him like crazy.

{{{{{{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}

Oh, Roy! Laurie, hugs and much love to you on such a sad day. The story of Roy and how he told you his name is a perfect way to celebrate his life. Our beloved cats (and all pets) are little earth angels that get to live with us and become part of our lives for a time. Then, one day, they are called home. And though it's no immediate consolation for the void left in our daily lives, it's comforting to know that there is now another little guardian angel watching over us from above, still talking to us (if we listen), still living in our hearts, still a part of us. I, too, am sobbing over lunch at my desk. I know all too well the wrenching feeling of loss - I have too many little guardian angels in heaven - but at the same time through the sadness there is a celebration of all the joy, laughter, mischief and love they brought into our lives when they chose us. And Roy made the most amazing choice when he picked you, Laurie. Thanks for letting Roy be a part of our lives, too.

This is my first time here and I'm blown away. What a heart-touching first post to read. Eloquently written. My sympathies on your loss. Brought back sad memories of losing my little man Emmet two years ago. He was removed from an abusive owner and lived a long, happy life with my partner and me.

Like so many who have already posted, I am crying at work. I'm so sorry for your loss.

I remember when my family lost Midnight, the cat I loved. He knew me ever since I was born, and put up with everything, even my diapered self trying to use his tail as a teething ring. When I got older and knew not to chew on the cat, we would spend afternoons reading together. We shared countless literary adventures on the livingroom sofa, basking in the sun. When he got older, I held him as we drove to the vet for the last time. He was sick, and needed to be put to sleep. I was young, but I knew he was scared (cars weren't his thing), and so I cradled him in my arms and cried.

We had 4 cats, but Midnight was always the one I loved. He was shy, and his favorite thing to do was hide under the bed. But once you won his heart, he was yours.

Sending you an innernet hug from Chicago,
Kristiana

Delurking to offer my deepest sympathy on the loss of your elderly gentleman.

May condolences, Laurie.
Roy was one cool cat. Everyone should have a Roy at least once in their lives (I had one...).

laurie. i have read your blog for a while now and fallen madly in love with your writing and your feline companions.

when i saw your post, i knew what the end was going to be...even before i read it. something clicked and i was praying i would be wrong.

roy was a great man. he's going to be missed, but you have such great stories and memories and love for him that he'll never be far away.

thank you for sharing. i'll be thinking of you and roy and the other furry people in your life.

I'm so very sorry....The world is a little colder without him. He was so very sweet. *hugs*

Goodbye Roy, I'll sprinkle some catnip to the wind for you tonight.

So sorry to hear this news Laurie. You wrote a beautiful eulogy to that lovely little guy with the gorgeous eyes.

That was a tragically beautiful post. I'm sorry for your loss, but as others have said, cherish the memories of your very special friend.

Hi Laurie,
Nothing will ever replace your Roy, and it will take time to heal -- but please know how many warm wishes and prayers are coming your way from so many, many people who loved him too! How deeply sad and moving this tribute was. What a wonderful Good-bye to your Roy. He was no doubt the luckiest cat who ever lived.

LONG LIVE ROY!

Oh geez - our cats. I loved just reading about Roy, and I love that he told you his name, and maybe our boy cats just know when to fill up the other side of the bed for us - my boyfriend the Squeakerman once did that for me too. Roy may well be the most remembered cat ever judging from you readers.

He was the other cats Hemmingway - made me chuckle. Sending best energies your way.

Laurie, Losing a beloved pet is not like losing a member of the family, it is losing a member of the family. Sounds like Roy's last years were good ones though, and the memory of him, telling you his name, will always make you smile. Here's to Roy. Leslie

tearful warm hug to you and your kitties.

Godspeed, Roy.

I've alerted my grandmother in heaven. She said she'd look after him until you are reunited again.

I am so so sorry that you've lost your furry friend.

I'm so sorry laurie! Big hugs to ya hun and good knitting vibes!!

oh sweeetheart I am so sorry...

Oh, Laurie, I am so sorry to hear about Roy! I'm so glad he got to have you for as long as he did though.

Oh Laurie, I am so, so sorry for your loss. Pets have this amazing way of filling the empty parts of our lives, and the pain of losing that special comfort is so very real. You, Frankie, Bob, and Soba are in my thoughts. You gave Roy a wonderful life.

I am so, so sorry to hear of your loss, Laurie. You and your fur-children are in my thoughts. *hugs*
jess

Laurie - So very, very sorry for your loss. I had my own 'Roy' until about 2 years ago - there isn't a day that goes by that I don't miss him.
Thank you for sharing his wonderful story.
**HUGS**

Dear Laurie,

I'm so sorry that you've lost Roy. He had a wonderful life with you which is all any kitty can ask for.

What a beautiful eulogy. It's a good thing my door is closed right now because the tears are running down my cheeks.

Esther

Laurie, so so sorry for your loss. damn.

Oh my God oh my God. I got to the part about the things Roy "loved" and it was the past tense that tipped me off. It was then that I knew. I barely skimmed the rest of your post because I was too busy trying to wipe away my tears. I haven't cried like this at work in I can't remember how long. Oh Laurie, my heart goes out to you. I'm so so sorry.

Ohhh, I'm so sorry . . . I don't even have words.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. *hugs*

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing his story with us.

Oh Laurie, I am so so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear sweet old man. There is nothing I can say to take away the ache and the emptiness, but please know that I am thinking about you and am sitting here at my desk a whole country away crying my little eyes out.

The world is a lot better for having had a cat like Roy in it, aren't you lucky that he chose you to be his mom?

I've been lurking for a while, but had to send a message to let you know this stranger is sending you a virtual (yes, and possibly inappropriate) hug! I lost my sweet cat a few months ago, and feel your pain. Thank you for giving Roy such a wonderful home for his 'golden years'!

Laurie:

I hope this helps you. I know it's helped me a lot when I think of the fur babies I've had:

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.

There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Hugs and more hugs to you and all the furry ones.

Les~

I'm so sorry. And SO SAD, your voice made him our cat, too, you know, just a little. Thank you for sharing him with us. You just made a couple thousand people cry. We'll be missing him with you. Poor Soba!

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm going to miss Roy--I always looked forward to his pictures and his stories. Such a special little cat.

Congratulations on having such a lovely boy to share the last few years with! He sounds to have been a pretty cool guy!

Long time lurker, first time poster:

I'm so sorry about Roy. Losing the love of your life is hard, but it is clear that you not only gave Roy the best cat-life he ever could have imagined, but he also gave you the best human-life. And I know that sounds hokey, but sometimes it's the little things that are important to remember.

I lost Abbott, who I always, always referred to as the cat love of my life last year, and there's not a day that I don't miss him.

My thoughts are with you.

I am so very, very sorry for your loss. He was a special cat and friend. He will be greatly missed.

>>>>

I am so very sorry. He will be missed.

Long time lurker, first time poster:

I'm so sorry about Roy. Losing the love of your life is hard, but it is clear that you not only gave Roy the best cat-life he ever could have imagined, but he also gave you the best human-life. And I know that sounds hokey, but sometimes it's the little things that are important to remember.

I lost Abbott, who I always, always referred to as the cat love of my life last year, and there's not a day that I don't miss him.

My thoughts are with you.

I am so so sorry. What a sweet and heartbreaking post.

What a wonderful tribute. Not wanting to pick faves I couldn't help it. I just love all Roy pics the best. I recently lost one my kitties, too. Sorry, Laurie - I know it's rough right now. You two were so lucky to have each other. He's still looking out for you, though.

What a lovely tribut to Roy. Thanks for sharing how Roy got his name and giving us a glimpse into what he means to you.

((((Laurie))))

such a sweet cat...i am sorry for your loss. ((hugs))

OMG, I'm so sorry for your loss. I know the feeling, he was family, not just an animal. Now I'm crying at work, and I'm remembering furry friends I've lost.

Oh Laurie I am so sorry for your loss. I had to de-lurk to give my condolences. I know how hard it is to loose a cat since they are so much more then that. But I hope you know that you and Roy were both so very blessed by each other. Roy's story was beautiful. Thank you for sharing your cute old-man with us, he will be missed.

XOXO Christie

So So sorry.

I'm so very sorry. You two meant so much to each other--love, home, acceptance, comfort, someone who would always be there when things got hard, a reason to stop and smell the bacon. You were meant to be together.

I'm so sorry. It's a loss only another pet owner understands. Be kind to yourself. x

i'm not really a cat person.
but i read roy's story and my husband is now laughing at me because i'm crying about someone else's cat! coincidentally, you and i share the same birthday, which explains why i'm crying about your cat. hugs to you.

I'm at work and I just started crying. Crying for all the beauty and love that Roy shared with you, and for all the same that my long-ago cat named Ginseng gave to me.

I was off in Australia, my parents were moving houses, and one day he just up and disappeared. And my folks didn't tell me for 6 months. I knew it was coming, and I hadn't seen him in so long. And so I never cried, though I missed him so many times, until right now.

Thank you

You may have shut down half the companies in America, as we all sit weeping at our desks. Roy's story is so beautifully written. You don't really need a 159th person to tell you how sorry they are for your loss, but add me to the list anyway. I am nearing a similar decision with my 16 year old dog, who seems fine one minute, and on last legs the next...any advice would be so welcome. I want to just be sure I am doing the right thing for him. Hugs, love, thoughts, prayers, and good wishes all go out to you and the herd. I wish there was more I could do. I liked Kelly's idea of lighting a candle in memory of Mr.Roy, Old Man Cat...I think I'll do the same and toast him with an icy cold martini tonight. Take care, friend.

Oh honey! My deepest sympathies to you. I'm still pretty raw from losing Luke last year, my own "Roy." You love them all, but there really IS that one, the one that is so special you can't get angry about them chewing the baby alpaca yarn when you throw things at another for nibbling acrylic. Wow. bad run-one sentence. Sorry. Lovely eulogy for your boy.

I'm so sorry. As someone who lost one of her great furry loves on May 19, I know how much it hurts. Your tribute to Roy was beautiful; he's quite a special cat.

I'm so sorry. You brought tears to my eyes and reminded me of my beloved handsome man, Cotton Jonathon, who left many years ago.

like everyone else I was totally caught off guard, crying at my computer freaked my husband out when he came in and saw me. please know that the whole family here in downtown lala land send out a big hug. love fatboy, peanut, boneless (pets) jill and dov-(lurkers)

I'm crying at my desk, too. Oh Laurie! I'm so glad you got to sing him to sleep one last time. I will miss Roy, too.

You totally got me.

It's the end of the day at work and I'm reading this lovely little story about Roy and then you hit me up at the end with his passing, leaving me all weepy. I'm so sorry he's gone!

I'm so sorry for your loss Laurie. I know how much it hurts to lose a furry baby. Hugs to you and your little ones!

I'm crying at my desk at work. When I get home Oni and Angie will get extra love and I'll break out the good catnip in loving memory of Roy.

Roy's story is so touching and I'm really glad you shared it with us. I can't even fathom how hard it must be to lose him. I'll make sure that my pets get some extra love in memory of sweet Roy.

Hopefully you know that you gave him a life far greater than he could have ever imagined.

Soooo sorry to hear about Roy. It is the hardest thing losing a beloved pet. You had me doing the "ugly cry" after reading your tribute!! Just love on the others and it will be okay. Look at www.cuteoverload.com....my FAVORITE website for pictures of the cutest kitties and other critters EVER! PEACE to you....

HUGS ^..^

Oh, so sad and I'm so sorry. If I were in LA, I'd bring you some cake. It's the only thing I know how to do when someone dies. Take care and indulge your sorrows.

May we all be blessed with a Roy in our lifetime...

What a beautiful tribute, he was a special kitty and thanks so much for sharing this and the rest your life with us. Sending you warm thoughts and kitty purrs to comfort you at this time.

I am so very sorry for your loss. I'm also someone who took the "hard-luck" cases from the shelter. All three are wonderful. He is lucky to have found you. And you him. Thank you for giving him wonderful golden years. Hugs.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry to know that Roy is gone, but at the same time glad to know you got to sing him on his way.

So, so many virtual internet stranger hugs are being sent to you.

Rest in peace, Roy

OMG I was so not expecting that and now I'm sitting at my desk trying not to cry. Thanks for sharing Roy's story and life with us!

Laurie,

I'm glad he passed peacefully. I'm sorry to hear that he had left us....

...I still remember what you told me about him...that's why I'm glad he went peacefully.

*hugs*
Victor, aka Elemm

I'm so sorry...

I am so sorry for your loss.
Thank you for your tribute to Roy.
What a lovely story of shared love and trust.
My condolences on your bereavement.
Marlyce in Windsor, Ontario

Very sorry for your loss.

Dear Laurie,
I am so sorry to hear about Roy. He was such a handsome and dear cat. I know this is a very tough time for you, having been in your shoes about a dozen times so far and counting. But your memories of Roy will help you through. He was a very lucky, very special cat. I will miss reading about Roy...
many hugs,
Stefani

About halfway through your story I realized you were using the past tense and could already feel the tears coming. I'm so sorry.

It's so incredibly hard to lose a pet you love, so sorry for your loss

Like so many others, I'm sitting at my desk at work crying. My coworkers already know I'm crazy so it doesn't matter. OMG Laurie, I am so sorry, but I'm so glad he went peacefully and to know that if ever a cat deserved a good family, it was Roy...and he found you.

I was so hoping that nice Roy story wasn't going to end like that.

sigh. Its so unfair that good felines don't live forever.

Take care.

Well done, good and faithful Friend.
We'll all miss you, Roy!

Laurie, I'm so sorry. So so sorry. Losing someone whose love kept you company through the hardest loneliest times is wrenching. But please take comfort in knowing that while he was there for you, YOU were there for HIM, and while we all so very much wish he was here longer, you made it a very very fine life indeed.

Roy! I loved getting to know you a little bit via the blog, and always thought you were quite the handsome man. I'm really glad that you had an easy passing, that you're free to roam those vast fields of catnip that exist probalby in the same dimension where the dryer socks go, and that you'll be around up there in the ether to help watch over Your Human.

Oh, I'm so sorry! He was such a special cat and he knew that you loved him well.

oh laurie...i am so sorry. crying big tears for your loss.

he reminds me of my old bob...i still miss bob.

(ask me how many typos i've corrected for not being able to see through the tears)

rest in peace, roy.

Dammit girl, you made me cry at work.... again! I'm sure you've earned some big karma points for taking care of an old man in his golden years.

Oh Laurie! I'm sitting here crying after reading this and not just because I had grown to love Roy but also because your Roy story was like reading about my Sam, who even now, four years after having to have him put down, I miss incredibly, especially in moments like this...when I'm reading about your Roy. It's so hard to let them go once they have wormed their furry way into your heart and all we know is that our lives will never be the same.

Thinking of you today..and of Roy and Sam. I'll bet my tuxedo kitty has already met your little old man kitty at Rainbow Bridge.
Love,
Kim

Oh Laurie, I am so so sorry. Roy has been my favorite as long as I've been a CAP reader (a long time) and I loved him. Today's column was a lovely tribute.

And just think, now he's at the Pearly Gates, keeping ol' Saint Peter company while they wait for you to come home.

xoxoxox

Oh no! I am so deeply sorry for your loss, Laurie. I am glad I got to know Roy a bit through your blog. I hope that the pain of this loss will be replaced soon by all the lovely memories you have of him, but take your time mourning. I have to go hug my kitties now. I hope they live for ever. You will be in our thoughts.

Oh Laurie - my heart is in my throat. Best wishes to you and the other cats, who are no doubt missing their beloved friend.

I'm so sorry to hear of sweet Roy's passing. My heart aches for you and the other kitties. as I'm sure they'll be grieving too.

I have been a long time visitor to the site, I send my thoughts as I to have my fur babies and know one day I will endure the same thing.

I know you'll never get all the way down to this one, but I could tell where this post was going almost from the beginning. I am a hard, bitter cynic, but tears are running down my face right now. I am so sorry, and so happy for you that you had such a good friend.

happy journey Roy, possibly the most loved cat in the Blogiverse. Laurie, my heart goes out to you - thank you for sharing Roy with us. We are all blessed to have known Roy from afar.

Oh Laurie, I'm sitting here crying my eyes out. I'm so sorry for your loss.

But so happy, too, that such an extraordinary cat found such an extraordinary woman, and that the two of you were able to enjoy your wonderful and amazing telepathy for such a long time. In a different life, perhaps, he was your husband, or perhaps he will be again in the fullness of time.

Oh, Laurie
This reminds me of my Percy. We got him when I was diagnosed with fertility issues & told that it was unlikely that I would be able to fall pregnant. He had a heart attack 18mths later, sitting on my knee, on the first day of my second trimester. I miss him.

Oh poor baby... I'm so so sorry for your loss. Roy was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have had him.

Oh Aunt Purl, I'm so sorry to hear that you've lost Ray. Thank you for sharing the story of how Ray told you his name - I loved it.

I'm so sorry. I know there's nothing that can be said to make it better, but I am so, so sorry.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I love my cat, Ben, so much I will be devastated when he dies. I was wondering if Mr. X would care that Roy died. I don't know if you ever keep in contact with him at all. Again, I'm so very sorry you lost Roy yesterday. I bet all the other three kitties miss him too.

Kind regards, Mary Jo

I'm glad the last years of his life were filled with all the joy and love and happiness that he missed during the first years.
Goodbye Roy! We'll miss you!

sweet, sweet boy...i'll miss seeing you around here. so very sorry to hear about your loss, laurie. you were a wonderful mom to him...

I am such an ass for calling Roy Ray in my comment...and twice. I'm really not an insensitive asshole with a second grade comprehension level. (At least not on purpose.)

In the past if someone told me I would be crying over someone else's cat passing I would have told them they were crazy - and I would have been wrong. That was a very touching story, Laurie, and I am very sorry for your loss.

Oh, Laurie, I am so so sorry. I don't know what else to say - just I'm sorry.

Aw Laurie, I'm so sorry that Roy's gone. You and the remaining herd will be in my thoughts and prayers.
*inappropriate hugs*

I'm so sorry for your loss. It's clear from your beautiful and moving essay that you love Roy very very much. He was so blessed to spend the rest of his life with you after enduring such hardship.

You're in my prayers.

I am so sorry for your loss. I will be singing his song for quite some time.

/hugs

Laurie,

I don't comment often, but I read your blog faithfully, and I am crying with you as are most of the other posters. Roy was the dearest cat and I am so sorry for your loss. I fear I will be going through this too soon with my Tig, who is now 17. He is my Roy.

Love and hugs to you.

What a touching eulogy for dear old Roy. I just cried at my desk a little. I'm glad he went peacefully, and I wish you peace too.

oh boy .... i'm so sorry laurie as i sit here in my office (luckily most people are gone)crying for your dear roy. oh poor roy. and poor you. you were so kind to me when napoleon died.

which reminds me. i'm sure that napoleon is showing him the ropes in kitty heaven. i bet napoleon is looking out for him.

i'm so sorry honey.

I am so sorry you've lost sweet Roy.

I am so sorry about Roy. (hugs) He was a dear cat, and a good cat, and he loved you. I wish my Sophie-cat wasn't at my parents house 1200 miles away...
Shouldn't cry at work. My heart goes out to you and your kitties.

It's all I can do not to cry. I'm so sorry.

When I started reading today, I was delighted, because Laurie is going to tell us a story. I love your stories. And then the tense changed. And I wanted to stop reading because I didn't want to know. As if by not reading I could change the ending.

I wish for you that it would work that way. Unfortunately, there are no words that will help. Just all of us delurking to pay our respects to your Roy.

I just burst in to tears. I have been reading your blog for over a year and my favorite posts are the ones about your kitties.
I am so sorry for your loss. It is obvious how much you love him.

Oh lord, you got me... here I am, crying into my spaghetti over someone else's cat that I never even met. Roy is so, so lucky to have found you. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, and it will help my find sympathy in my heart for my own naughty kitty (who just knocked over my water glass as I was typing this).

I'm not sure what difference it makes to write a comment after all the other million comments, but...

You should feel so lucky to have had an animal you felt so close to. People who aren't animal people never get it, but the unconditional love some animals show their people can help them pull through anything.

How are the other cats taking it? I'll bet they miss him. Lots of people don't realize how deep animals' feelings can be, but I remember how my grandma's favorite dog used to pace around in front of her bedroom door after she died. He'd go looking all through the house for her. Since then, he's adopted my great aunt, and he's very protective of his lady.

oh, dear, I've never commented before, but, I had to. I feel really silly, at work, trying really hard not to cry. I read your blog kinda obsessively, and it's like you and your cats are family. I can't even imagine how it feels. I have 2 cats, and one has FIV, and he was getting sick often for a while--I feel lucky that he's ok. You are such a good cat mommy, and Roy could not have had a better place to be. So glad evil Mr. X didn't take him.
Hang in there. Try www.cuteoverload.com --you can't help but smile.

Sniff. Please God, let the wise one become our next President.

So sorry to hear about Roy! But you certainly gave him a happy well loved life, and he certainly loved you very much for it!

Oh noes!!! *hugs*

I have already told Tattoo Boyfriend to play to put me in the rubber room when Rozz's time comes. My baby boy who has seen me through 2 ex-husbands. Who would suck on the hair on the back of my neck when I got him cause he was soooo tiny (I think the was only about 5 weeks as opposed to the 8 he claimed to be - he was also supposed to be a she). He comes when I call, he loves me no matter what, when I am sick, he cuddles. When I am sad, he curls up on my lap, looks up at me with loving eyes, purrs and reminds me that he loves me no matter what. He is my boy. He is smart. He is sweet. He goes up to bed and tells me to come to bed when I stay up too late. When I don't, he comes down the stairs and stares at me until I get up and go to bed.

I think cats get a bad rep about being independant stubborn creatures. Sure, some are, but mine are all loyal, sweet and loving.

Goodbye, Roy, you will be missed by Laurie and all of us on the interwebs who loved to hear about you sleeping under the covers during the day and hiding and everything else. You were a handsome creature who was loyal and loved.

I'm so sorry for your (and all of ours) loss, I was hoping that post wouldn't end that way. I'm typing through the tears Laurie. I can just imagine how I will feel when my dear cat (and best friend) passes. Roy will be missed by more people than just you. Thanks for telling us how he was named Roy. Sympathies dear Laurie. :(

oh laurie - we are so very sorry. thank you for sharing your amazing roy tribute.

sending peace and love from woodland hills,

-shannon
the cat girls -- harvey and zoe
& ike the pug

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy's passing. Our furry best friends are there for us in ways that no human is able to be. And those little miracle kitties, who live and surprisingly thrive with the love we show them, will be in our hearts forever... and waiting for us on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry. I am so glad he got to have you as his mom for as long as he did ~

Dear Laurie,

What a beautiful tribute you wrote about the gorgeous Roy. I'm so sorry you had to say goodbye to him.
I wish you and your catfamily a lot of strenght together.

All the best,
Simone

Laurie, I'm sorry to hear of your precious friend passing. From reading your blog, I know that he was so much a part of you. It's hard to let those we love and care about leave us. My heart goes out to you and my thoughts and prayers will be with you and with Roy :)

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. Roy was an amazing old man cat, and he knew how much you loved him.

Lots of hugs for you and the kitties.

Beautiful story for Roy--my thoughts and prayers for his brothers and you!

Laurie

This week has marked the passing of two great cats - Roy and Erik the Red. In deepest sympathy.
Souhair

I'm so sorry, Laurie. You wrote him a beautiful epitaph, though. Roy gave you some of what you now give all of us.

Happy trails, dear Roy.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. Many people are crying with you today. I hope that you and the other cats are doing okay.

Look at all the comments. All the animal lovers who deeply understand. It's a sad time.

Add my name to the list of people who cried at work upon reading the passing of Roy... and now here I am at home reading through the comments and crying again. You were both lucky to have each other, by love to you both.

So sad to read about Roy. I have never met you, and yet I totally get you. And my heart is breaking for you.
Cheers, to a good friend!!

Oh Laurie - I'm so terribly sorry. Roy sounded like the perfect companion and a great person. Your story makes my heart ache for my beloved kitty, who adored me and died five years ago and who I have never stopped missing. You will be in my thoughts.

You gave him the love he needed, you were the best part of his life, and he passed on the best way, knowing that he was loved.

Like everyone else, I'm crying for you and Roy.

I am so very sorry, Laurie. So far in the last 6 months, each of my sisters and I have all lost a cat that has been a part of our lives for quite some time (1 for 19 years!) and it's so very, very hard to say goodbye. Roy was family. He will be missed.

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. Sending happy, healing thoughts your way.

Laurie, I'm de-lurking to tell you that your beautifully written post made me so sad that it took me six tries to get through it without crying uncontrollably at work. Roy was a sweet, gorgeous boy and you were so, so lucky to have found each other! I'll give my kitties extra kisses tonight in his honor. (though they'd probably prefer some of that tuna-flavored Fancy Feast... :))

Oh Laurie...there are no words.

My heart goes out to yours.

Oh Laurie - I am SO sorry. Thank you for sharing Roy with us all this time - he always seemed like such a sweet cat.

My heart breaks for you. And for Bob, Frankie and Soba who lost their brother.

Goodbye Roy

I'm not sure if I am crying because you've lost a good friend or because he was so tortured before you found him. Anyways...good work giving him a wonderful and happy home.

Who does that to an animal?!?!

That was so beautiful. Roy had a beautiful life because of you. I'm sorry you lost a friend, it is guys like this that make you believe they have souls.

Goodbye, Roy.

I was just thinking--Roy's life must have been so sad before you. But you changed that for him and gave him a life of love. What hope that is! To see a life that maybe lost all hope, only to be brought into someone's heart. It's inspirational, Roy's life. (((HUGS again)))

Aw, Laurie, I'm so very sorry. Hugs to you.

That was a beautiful story. My condolences on your loss ... {{{Laurie and Roy}}}

laurie, i'm so very sorry for your loss.

siamese cats are very picky... and when they choose you, it's a great gift.

<3s for roy, always.

I've been a longtime reader and never a poster(makes me a lurker I guess). But having lost 3 dear cats -some expected, some a sad surprise - over an 18 month period lately, and now trolling the adoption centers, my heart goes out to you. Roy was loved so very much, what an eloquent eulogy. Hugs to you and the rest of the brood, as all left behind mourn, even the four-legged ones. Wish every cat could be as loved as you love Roy.

I am so sorry Laurie. It's just not fair that they don't live as long as us, that's about the only problem with our beloved animals. You were lucky to have each other, and now he's your angel kitty.

Oh honey... I know that saying "I'm so sorry" doesn't mean anything, but I'm so sorry anyway. I'm crying in my coffee, on my keyboard, and just extinguished a ciggie from tears falling on it.

We have a little kitty who was rescued from a cistern by a friend of mine. We brought her home from Washington State (we live in California) and had to let her run free in the truck. No carrier for her! She fit in the palm of my hand at the time and isn't much bigger now. She sleeps on my ass all night and only lets me love her. DH wants to love her so badly, but she bites him or growls whenever he tries to pet her. He's her scratching post and playmate; I'm her mama. I suspect it's because I have the squishier ass of the two of us.

We're coming to your crossroads very soon with our puppy. Cheyenne is a pound puppy and was so terribly abused by her previous owner that DH had to pick her up and put her in the car. When we got her home, so promptly peed on the floor and spent the next two weeks on the couch. That was back in 1992, and we were told she was about two years old then. You couldn't raise your voice in front of her or scold her because she hit the floor in an instant and cowered.

Fast forward to today. She lives with my mother now because there is no place here for her to go outside or be comfortable. We visit her all the time, and every time I see her, I have to cry in the car on the way home. Her big soft brown eyes are now completely white with cataracts and she can't control her bowels, and because we're just renting this house, we can't have her doing that here. But she still wags her tail and follows us around as best she can (she had a stroke one night in our bedroom where she slept - she suddenly fell over, got up, and began walking in a tilting circle). We won't put her down unless she's in pain, but she's not. She's just slowly fading away, and I know the day is coming fast when she kisses me goodbye and goes to a better place. Shit. Now I'm crying again and I have to go to a knitting group soon with puffy eyes. My heart bleeds for you and Roy.

May he forever have catnip and chase mice and sprawl like the king he is on a soft cloud, waiting for you to come home.

He needed you as much as you needed him. What a gift you were given. Peace to Roy.

I don't know why I'm torturing myself, but I just read it again and I've got to say that you and Roy were both very lucky to have found each other.

You two were so lucky to have each other. I'm so sad for your loss. Funny things happen in blog land. I loved Roy too :(

Tribute To A Best Friend

Sunlight streams through window pane
unto a spot on the floor....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie,
but now you are no more.
Our feet walk down a hall of carpet,
and muted echoes sound....
then I remember,
It's where your paws would joyously abound.
A voice is heard along the road,
and up beyond the hill,
then I remember it can't be yours....
your golden voice is still.
But I'll take that vacant spot of floor
and empty muted hall
and lay them with the absent voice
and unused dish along the wall.
I'll wrap these treasured memorials
in a blanket of my love
and keep them for my best friend
until we meet above.

Author Unknown

RIP Roy.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing such a lovely tribute to your dear friend.

I am so very sorry about Roy. I can't believe I'm crying so hard over a cat I never knew or crying for a person I've never met. Your writing is so beautiful and you let so many readers into your life. Thank you for sharing Roy and your other kitties with us. Roy was very lucky to have a human like you love and care for him.
My heart goes out to you and your other kitties.

Laurie,
I found your blog a few weeks ago and am obsessively reading the archives. I already feel like I know you and your kitties, and look forward to your latest musings and adventures. I wept as I read your tribute to Roy, there is nothing like the unconditional love of an animal, they're always there and always willing to give. I'm so sorry...

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry. I am typing this post - my first, although I've read you for months now - through tears. I've been there. It feels so bad. But they leave us with so much love. You will always cherish him, and he will always be there with you.

I am a long-time reader. I look forward to reading your site every day, and am really heartened knowing that someone else has a "chez cat hair."

Roy was well & truely loved, and if anything means something in this world, that does. He loved his person too.

I'll cry for what you've lost, but I'll also smile for what you had/have.

I am so sorry for your loss.

Oh oh oh. He's waiting for you and the rest of the gang at the bridge.

I am so sorry about Roy. He was lucky to have you for the second part of his life!

Those little furry soulmates of ours can leave pawprints on our hearts.

Roy is telling long stories in Heaven about his "mom" and how she loved him.

Ok, I'm crying now like everybody else. I'm so sorry about Roy, I'm sure you will miss him. It's the most wonderful story though. I'm sure there's a special kind of hell for people who abuse animals and children - I can't imagine how Roy's life was changed when you adopted him. So even though I know you must be so sad he's gone, I am so happy to hear his story and know that the bad stuff was not all he knew of life. That he was loved. That he knew kindness and security. He sounds like a very special friend.

Shit hun, I'm so sorry. Wish I could wrap you up in a big ole bear huge.

I am so sorry for your loss.
You were lucky to have such a wonderful cat in your life, and he was equally blessed to have such a human.

I am so sorry for your loss. You wrote a beautiful entry in memory of your awesome cat, Roy.

I am so sorry.

My deepest sympathy, Laurie. I'm so happy you had Roy in your life. What a precious gift - his presence and your time together.

Dear Laurie, my deepest sympathies for your loss ((((((warm hugs))))))). I think all of your readers knew how much he meant to you. ~~Di

What a beautiful tribute to Roy. I'm sorry for your loss.

(((((Laurie))))))
My husband went to the Orange County animal shelter to get his "own cat". He went looking for a black or gray kitty... and an older orange one found HIM. The black kitty was going to be named "Dale" after the race car driver. The orange one.... well.... he had to tell us his name. His name is Stewart.

Stewart has become my kitty and he's the love of my life. I would probably save him from the sinking ship FIRST. I still have my Stew and just the thought of losing him makes me cry. My heart goes out to you!

I am so sorry. I have my dog George and he to told me his name and now he is getting old and I fear the day I go out an he is not there ready for our walk each morning. I know you have cherished memories of Roy, just like I will of George.
Starr

oh my gosh, I'm bawling. thank you sharing that, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Not many of us know you very well, Laurie, but we're all crying right now. You were a trooper Roy, and thanks for sharing him with us Laurie. Best wishes.

I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like you both provided the other with quite a lot during your short time together.

xo

Oh my. I am trying hard not to let the floodgates open. I began reading your post, thinking how nice it was how Roy came to you and thinking nothing at all odd that he told you his name. They all do that. Don't they? Mine did. Anyway, I didn't even read all of the post. My eyes darted down and I saw the fateful words. I can't finish. I'm about to cry my eyes out becaue I know how it is to say goodbye to our furry friends. I'm so sad he's gone.

I'm also a lurker, but I just wanted to delurk to tell you how very sorry I am to hear about Roy. I recently put one of my cats to sleep, and it was so difficult. I'm so happy to know that Roy had you for a mom after such a rough little life. I know it's so sad, but he passed in such a peaceful way. Take it easy, I will be praying for you.

I am so sorry. My fur babies and I send our hugs and condolances to you and your other fur babies.

Laurie - My heart goes out to you. I had a cat just like Roy - he was my soul mate, my Tony kitty. After he passed I got a tattoo of him with angel wings. Many hugs and much love.

When I was 3 years old, one of our barn cats had kittens. There was one tiny grey and white female kitten that just was having a hell of a time. My parents decided to move mom and the kids inside the house, so they could be out of the harsh elements.

Once everyone was big and strong enough, Mama Cat moved back outside, and the kids were slowly given to neighbors, as barn cats are always a good thing to have out where we lived. But no one wanted the still smallish, scraggly, grey and white kitten.

My older sister (she was 10 at the time), persuaded our parents to let us keep the grey and white baby. So she moved inside, and my sister named her "Precious". Technically, she was my sister's cat, but she mostly hated everyone except for me and my dad. She became our cat, and refused to answer to "Precious", so she was unofficially renamed "Kitty", and that was all she responded to.

My dad frequently referred to her as "damn cat", and she was more mine than his. As I grew older, she became my companion. I grew into an unpopular, awkward adolescent, and Kitty was the only one I could talk to. I sang to her, and told her made up stories. She slept on my bed, frequently on my face, actually, and always let me cuddle her, even when she would let anyone else near her.

The fall I began college, it became apparent that she wasn't doing well. Over the last year, she had gotten more scraggly, and crankier. She no longer got around very well, and it got where she stopped eating and drinking unless if was given to her by hand, and only by me. The time came to have her put down.

The vet said it appeared she had suffered a stroke, and that our decision was the best one. He shaved her leg to give her the shot, and when he put the needle in, she fought back with all her strength, hissing and trying to scratch and bite. She jerked the damn needle out, even. The vet ended up giving her the shot somewhere else, I can't remember if it was in her stomach or in between her shoulders.

I held her as she left this world, and I cried. The vet was kind enough to give me a hug. But that was my Kitty, tough as nails until the end.

Love to you and the rest of your furry kids.

(Also, if you haven't been reading this (http://www.yarnagogo.com/blog/2007/06/look-what-dragg.html), it's the ongoing story of another cat, tough as nails.

Sweet dreams, Roy, and hugs to you, Laurie.

Roy, thanks for sharing your world with all of us. I'm sad that you're gone, but glad that Laurie let us know you, even just a little bit.

Laurie, please accept my deepest sympathies. Losing a friend is so tough. Thanks for sharing such an intimate tribute.

Laurie,

I too am in tears. I promise to never forget Roy - it's friends like Roy that make life so great. Thanks for sharing him with us.

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful and personal story with us.

Oh, Laurie. I am so sorry your Roy is gone. You're in my heart and my thoughts.

My condolonces on your loss. Roy was a special guy and you two were lucky to have each other.

Another lurker, another face streaked with tears. I'm so sorry for your loss. What a lovely cat he was, and what a wonderful tribute to a much loved companion.

Nothing can be said to make you feel better, but just know that everyone of the over 700 people that posted here today are feeling the same way as you. I too lost my furry monster. Christmas eve. She talked to me too. Most have had a pet and unfortunatly nothing lasts forever, so most have had to deal with the shock of losing a loved one.
You and the rest of the flock there are in all of our prayers.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. This post is a fine tribute to Roy.

I, too, have a skittish older cat that I adopted when no one else wanted her. She hid behind the couch and under the bed for two months; it took at least another month or two for me to be able to pet her. Now she likes to sit on my lap and snuggle, and, strangely enough, one of her favorite activities is to have her ears groomed (yucky but necessary). There's no way I could have gotten anywhere near her ears when she first came home with me.

I lost my heart cat in November last year & know EXACTLY what you're going through. Sending you hugs from England...

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy's passing. That is a rare and special and unconditional love that only come from years spent together.

lurker here, who's bawling at her computer desk, thinking of her own kitties, and knowing how much you hurt right now.

Roy was always my favorite in your pictures :)

What an amazingly lucky cat Roy was to have you, Laurie. I'm crying at work, but thank you for sharing. He'll definately be missed. ;)

What an amazingly lucky cat Roy was to have you, Laurie. I'm crying at work, but thank you for sharing. He'll definately be missed. ;) Big hugs to you, sisterfriend.

Oh Roy. I wish you luck in your next life. I hope you are as much of a looker as you were this time around.
Even im going to miss you

Laurie,

I have been reading your blog for quite some time & never posted. I just wanted to tell you that I know exactly how you feel, and my heart goes out to you. I lost my 9 yr old Eddie in February, and I know exactly how you feel. He was my baby! I can not believe how you could write such a beautiful post when you are feeling so unbeautiful right now. No one can say you were a bad mama. He had a great life. I know the others in your furry home are hurting too. Cry. It's good for you right now.

Tears blinding my eyes. Are they for you or for all of us in this suffering world. It doesn't matter; it does help to let them flow.

Love, Vicki

Laurie, I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear Roy. Your pictures and witty writing allowed everyone to share in the joy of his life. Now we all grieve with you at his passing.

But he knew you loved him, Laurie, and that's all he ever wanted.

Laurie - I am so very sorry to hear of Roy's passing. The reason it hurts so bad, is that you BOTH experienced REAL LOVE. LOVE as it is supposed to be: honest and true and unselfish and giving totally of one's spirit. His soft, sweet furry body may not be with you, but his spirit is deep within your soul. You gave each other the best parts of yourselves. I pray the time goes quickly when the ache in your heart is down to a dull roar. God bless you and your furry kids and take good care of the Crazy Purl family. My prayers and love are with you.

Laurie,

I love your blog. I have read it every day for over a year now. I love your stories and adventures. I love cats (I have four). My favorite thing about your blog was Roy. I never met Roy, but through your blog I knew a little bit about his history. Call me a wacka-doo (you won't be the first), but I felt like I knew Roy and I felt love in my heart toward him. At work today, I was delighted to see a post about Roy: once I discovered he had passed on, I went into the bathroom and balled like a baby. I am grieving for you and your loss. I can't believe Roy is gone. I feel so sad.

Nancy Ileene

I am so sorry for you, crying after reading your sweet story of Roy. He was a very lucky boy.

As the great number of posts will show, we all feel for you. You had something special with Roy that I've only ever seen one other time. So much I could say, but nothing that will stop the tears.

I've loved every post about Roy, he was a very special and very CUTE cat. I giggled every time a 'fang' pic showed up. Pets stay with us only a short time(compared to our lives) but they leave us with their love and memories and the joy that was their life. And the time you had with Roy will always be a bright spot in yours.

I don't know what kind of afterlife you believe in but I think Roy has plenty of BACON in his!!!

I must go hug the furry butts in my life now..Tara

"If my tears could build a stairway
and my memories a lane
I'd walk right up to heaven
and bring you home again"

Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. RIP Roy.

I'm so sorry. My thoughts are with you the rest of your kitty family.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm totally teared up right now. Lots of hugs being sent your way.

Dear Laurie,
I'm so sorry for your loss but glad for you and for Roy that you were with him to see him on. You'll always remember him so he'll always be near. My thoughts and tears for both of you.

This was a great post Laurie - hope you are doing ok.

Laurie, I am so very sorry for your loss. I have a miniature schnauzer who is going on 15 years old. Her vet is amazed she has been with me SIX YEARS longer than the average min schnauzer lives. I know I will be a basket case when the time comes. I'll toast Roy tonight and so will my "young 'un". Heck, I may cook salmon in his honor. I wish it could be Tuna...

Many hugs, Hon. If you were closer, I'd be on my way over with a big ol' casserole and something cold to wash it down.

:*(

PS: Look at everyone who has de-lurked for you & Roy !! So much love. How wonderful is that ?!?

Laurie- You and Roy were lucky to have each other.
I am thinking about both of you.
Diane

Betty Jade was to me what Roy was to you. My love, my heart, my girl. My utter everything. No one and no thing could ever or will ever love me the way she did. She went ahead of Roy on July 5th, to make the path easy for him. She was my fiercest protector. I know she'll take good care of Roy.

I'm so sorry Laurie...it is sad; I'm sorry. I have a sweater design in mind to honour my cat, Misty. Maybe, when you're ready you could design something for Roy and it would help you too. Roy won't be forgotten and he had a happy, loving life with you.

Laurie, I know I can't say a thing that will make you feel better. I am truly sorry about Roy. A friend whether "furred" or "unfurred" is hard to come by. He was a special cat, friend, companion and protector.

Oh Laurie...I am so sorry to hear this. But I am so grateful that you and Roy found each other and gave each other what you both needed...and that I got to know his story through you. Lots of love to you.

My thoughts are with you....I'm so sorry for your loss.

Laurie, I'm so, so sorry to read that Roy is gone. Big hugs for you and the kitties.

Oh... so sorry to hear it. There's a lump in my throat. I too have a wise "old man cat" who is not long for this world.

It is wonderful that you found each other, and what a lovely, touching tribute. Peace to you!

I'm so sorry for your loss. So so sorry.

I've only ever once owned a cat (and I've owned many cats in my life) that was my cat in the way that you describe Roy ... they are so very special and rare. So sorry to hear your news.

Roy gave you a gift even as he parted this time with you. I think I heard a small note of gratitude to Mr. X in this post, for sharing Roy's anticipation of you. You continue to grow, and we grow with you.

Thank you, Roy.

My condolences to you, Soba, Bob, and Frankie. Even though I only knew Roy through your blog, I shall miss him. I'm glad you were able to give him a wonderful life after the misery of his early years.

Oh, I am so sorry. Your beautiful tribute made me cry, too (big surprise.) When you said Roy took up the empty space when your husband left, it reminded me of when my Mom passed away, and Nicky (St. Nicholas) laid down next to me until my roommate got home the next morning. Our pets have beautiful souls, to give so much. May God bless you and give you strength. And cry as much as you need, it's cathartic and we're all behind you! Hugs to you and the furry family members.

Terry, mctwin's twin

I'm so very, very sorry. We never get to be with them long enough, do we?
Thank you for sharing your love story with us.

"Pisces Virgo rising is a very good sign..." I wept for you and I'm still teary. I made a donation to Valley Cats for Mr. Roy T. Cat, Wise One.

Thank you for sharing his goodness with all of us.

I am so sorry for your loss. It brought back to mind the gaping hole that was my heart for so long after Momoze died, and the fear that threatened to choke me when I thought I was going to lose Sassy 2 weekends ago.

Isn't it strange how they, being so small, become such a big part of us?

I guess Momoze is showing him the ropes, and letting him in on his poker games. Wha? With a name like Roy he's gotta play poker!

Hugs.

Oh, Laurie. I am crying, and had to delurk to tell you how very sorry I am for your loss. I'm thinking of you.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry. I just couldn't control the tears reading about Roy and now my t-shirt is all wet. I still remember when we had to put my cat to sleep like it was yesterday (1.5 years now) and it still makes me cry. I wish I could say it gets easier, but when you love something that much...it doesn't.

oh, roy.

you're the kind of kitty that makes us all crazy cat ladies.

Hi Laurie So sorry to hear about Roy. We just had one of our very loved little rats Ophelia pass. It really hits hard. We all cried and cried. We just take solice in the fact we loved her and gave her the best life ever. I will say a little prayer for you tonight.

I am so sorry. I just thought it was going to be a nice post about how Roy got his name and then I noticed the past tense. I'm glad you were able to be with him when he died. That was a comfort to him, I'm sure.

I came out of lurking to send my very deepest sympathy. I feel like most others who read your blog, like I know you and Soba and Bob and Frankie and especially Roy. It's always been very obvious to me that Roy was very special to you. He could not have had a more caring care-giver.

He will be truly missed by us all.

Not crazy Purl. Not even one little bit.

Nuthin but beautiful...

I'm so sorry.

Good night, Roy. I hope someone sings to you in the morning, next time around. It reminds me a bit of Harry, my boy who's been gone for a while now. Long story short, good cats are never with us long enough.

Hang in, Laurie. At least your other cats will keep you sane.... I mean, as crazy as usual.

Oh Laurie, here's a big hug for you from another divorced crazy cat lady! But you know that cats never leave--Roy will remain part of your heart and spirit forever. And while he's hanging out with my good old girls Maxine and Colette slurping mint juleps on the front porch, he'll send another love-starved kittycat your way. Just keep your eye out for Roy's present for you.
Many hugs again!

Okay so I have to admit that normally I don't really feel bad when someones pet dies. That being said I cried when I read your story. I could so relate to the bonding that happened with that cat through eveyrthing you have gone through. It just got to me. Big hugs from the west coast!!

Oh Laurie darling I'm so very very sorry. Many hugs and tears for you. Nothing like what you're going through, but there's a tiny little Roy shaped hole in my heart.....

Oh Laurie, here's a big hug for you from another divorced crazy cat lady! But you know that cats never leave--Roy will remain part of your heart and spirit forever. And while he's hanging out with my good old girls Maxine and Colette slurping mint juleps on the front porch, he'll send another love-starved kittycat your way. Just keep your eye out for Roy's present for you.
Many hugs again!

I am so sorry. My love to you, we will all miss Roy.

Hugs.

i'm so sorry. i know what it's like to feel like a cat is the love of your life. hang in there.

Earning the trust and devotion of a formerly abused animal is priceless, isn't it. I'm so sorry you lost Roy -- sounds like you made a wonderful, loving home for him, though.

>

I am so sorry to hear the news. I have loved many cats throughout the years and as each one has moved on, they have left an aching but so many good memories. Hugs to you and the other three who must also miss him terribly.

You loved Roy so much, but even that couldn't keep him here when he had to go. I'm so sorry for your loss.
I've gone all teary! I was happily thinking ah, a lovely story about Roy and then I wised up. So sad....

Rest in peace, ol' Roy. You had lots of fans out in cyberspace, and we'll all remember you always. His spirit will be with you Laurie, keep singing to him, when you are able, at least that helps me remember those who I miss so much. And remember that they are still with me wherever I go. It's hard, my thoughts are with you.

Oh, no. I am so, so very sorry.

i'm so, so sorry for your loss. roy sounds like a great kitty friend.

I am so sorry to hear about Roy, but glad it was a gentle goodbye. Your post was really moving and so full of love. Take care of yourself.

I am so sorry for your loss, Laurie...in the morning, sing to him, he'll hear you...he's with you in spirit and in your heart...Oh, how I relate to your story..and it brought back all the memories of losing my woobie, Fraggles. And I wept.

That was beautiful... I was just looking at your giant zuchini pictures the other day and admiring the one with Roy in it.... I made my husband look a it...

So sorry he's gone...

Words fail. I love the pieces out of my little kitties. I'll give them an extra hug tonight for your Roy. He will find you again!

Laurie, I've come back and read this post four times today...and every time I've had tears rolling down my cheeks. He was a very lucky guy to have found you, and you were a very lucky gal to have found him. Sometimes it is just meant to happen. Hugs to you and the others (who are mourning in their own kitty ways, I'm sure).

Roy was loved and so are you. Thoughts and prayers going your way.

{{{HUGS}}}

Shit.

That made me cry too. That was such a beautiful story.

Very sorry to hear about Roy. It's wonderful that you were able to rescue him & that he could be there to comfort you when you needed it. It's hard to lose such a good friend.

Laurie -
Long-time reader, first time commenter. But after reading about Roy, just wanted to let you know how very sorry I am for your loss.

Laurie, I am so sorry. I know there are no words that will comfort you, or take the sting away. Just know that your special bond with Roy will never fade.

I'm sorry for your loss, and the ache I know you feel. I lost OJ (my very special orange guy) a little over 2 years ago, and can certainly appreciate the relationship you shared. Mine was with me thru the good and bad, and had been with me longer than most people in my life. There is so much to be said for the impact they have on our lives, the lessons they teach us, the joy they bring us.

Sending you comfort, and my deepest condolences. Rest in peace Roy.

as my favorite vet said when i had to have a beloved dog, jack, freed from his pain, "if our pets aren't going to be waiting for us in heaven, i'm not going."

i remembered that when we lost jack's kitty sister, sparky, last fall. they were babies together, chased each other -- quite a sight . . . 60 pounds of border collie/lab mix being chased by 10 pounds of cat in a game of tag.

you and roy have given each other the gift you most needed -- someone you could trust completely -- when each of you most needed that gift.

by now, roy will be telling the other angelcats tales of the woman who loved him. and don't be surprised if roy sends sigfried to you one of these days, when you're ready.

in the meantime, consider yourself hugged by an indiana catmama.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss. ((hugs))

I can't even figure out what to say... hugs for you.

My heart is with you. He is with my Buddy and they are jumping over rainbows. You claimed him that one day from the corner and he will be yours forever.

I've been lurking around here a long time. I've been there with a cat like Roy and it hurts to lose them. ((hugs)) You clearly blessed each others lives.

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. Thank you for sharing his story.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. What a special friend Roy has been to you.

I too want to extend my condolences. There is nothing like the hurt of losing a loved cat. He was one lucky kitty to have you as a momma.

Im so sorry laurie. Lots of hugs for you.

I had to come out of longtime lurkdom to say how very sorry I am for your loss.

Oh honey...my heart is just breaking for you. I'm so very sorry for the loss of your special, little man. ((hugs))

Laurie, I have been reading for over two years. This is the first time I have commented. You just made me cry. Your love for him was obviously very deep; my sympathies. Thanks for sharing him (and thanks for sharing you) with us.

I am so sorry to hear about Roy, my thoughts are with you.

Laurie, we lost 2 cats last year but I still cried reading about Roy's death. I'm so glad you all found each other & had the years you did together.

Sniffle, sniffle. I'm so sorry. He sounds like a wonderful guy. I know you will miss him and his friendship. My heart hurts for you.

I just know that Roy is in kitty heaven playing w/ my former kitty pets.

Give the other kitties extra love so they can give you some extra love in return.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. That was an absolutely wonderful story that I'm sure Roy would appreciate. I also saw this at work and couldn't help but get all teary-eyed since I know the feeling all too well. You two were so lucky to have found one another. *hug hug*

I am so sorry. I have never commented before, but I wanted to tell you what a beautiful tribute that is to your cat.

My cat, Norman, passed on 6 months ago, and putting him down was the hardest thing I have ever had to do.

I feel your pain, and again, I am so, so, sorry.

I am so sorry for your loss. I read your post with tears in my eyes. Know that even though Roy is not physically with you, he will always be in your heart purring and a snoring. Thank you for sharing him with us. He's a great guy!

laurie--You gave and received unconditional love--that's what makes life worth living and all the crappy stuff tolerable. Thinking you!

No. No. Not Roy. I have so looked foreward to Roy pictures. I miss Roy already... but not nearly half of half as much as you do, I'm sure.

Sorry, honey. I'm truly glad you two had each other for as long as you did.

thanks for telling the sweet story of your sweet kitty. tearing up here.

I am so very, very sorry to hear about Roy. I am glad that you had the chance to be part of each other's lives.

I'm so sorry, Laurie! I love animals too and even though I love practically every animal I've ever known, especially cats, none of them will ever measure up to my cat Maggie. She has such a strong, neurotic but totally sweet personality that even though I may own and love many pets in the future, she's MY cat and I'm her person. I gave her a squeeze and a pet for you and Roy.

That was such a beautiful dedication to a wonderful animal. I cried.

even though i don't get cat love, i do get animal love and i want to add my condolences to the long list of people who love both of you guys without having met either one of you.

i'm all crying now. i was reading and thinking this is so cute and well written and i had always wondered about roy and then i thought...wonder why she's writing this...then no, can't be, no...
big big hugs to you. i have a schmitty, moe, who has a dark and unknown past but who IS my heart.i've had him for 12 years now and he has bad cancer on his spine only he doesn't seem to know it yet. he sleeps on my head and purrs whenever i am near.
i'm going to miss roy. and one day soon i am going to miss moe.
thinking of you.

Roy's devotion to you speaks volumes about the wonderful home you provided. There are no words to ease your suffering, however, I am truly sorry for your loss.

*crying*

Your Roy, my babochka. We are lucky to love as fiercely as we do.

*crying*

Your Roy, my babochka. We are lucky to love as fiercely as we do.

You are loved! Please take comfort in all the anonymous love and tears coming your way - and add mine to the bunch.

What else is there to say, but I'm sorry.

What a beautiful story, a lovely eulogy to your beloved Roy. Y'know, he is with you still in so many ways.

I too am a longtime lurker. I send my condolences for your loss. I am also an animal lover, and they have gotten me through the toughest of times. I am thinking of you and Roy, and as I always say when I have a loss...they don't live long enough.

Love to you-

J in Mn

I'm so sorry about Roy. Sitting here bawling my eyes out. Thank you so much for sharing Roy with all of us. What a special guy that Roy was.

Laurie, you wrote such a beautiful tribute to Roy. I'm so sorry for your loss; I know how hard this is. I'm sure he was a lovely furry guy, and I'm so glad you had one another to cherish.

thank you for sharing your story with us -- I am sitting here weeping and snuggling my own 2 kitties. I am so sorry you lost your best buddy, he sounds like he was a wonderful companion and a really nice kitty. You are really lucky to have known him so well, and to have earned his trust, and love. From your story, it sounds like you saved each other.

my thoughts are with you in this very difficult time

I'm sure you'll never see this because of all the comments, but I just had to say how sorry I am. I am in tears for you. I have been there and it is awful. :( {{hugs}}

I am so sorry. I cry as I read this...

:(((((

Condolences on the passing on of a great friend and thanks for sharing such a wonderful story. It brought a tear to even my eye and I'm kind of a hardass... heh.

You will meet him again I feel certain. :) *hugs* Pets that become so close to our hearts and souls tend to find their way home whether in this life or the next. Soul mates CAN be furry darnit.

Ohhhh how sad, I'm sitting with tears rolling down my face - what a beautiful post. I'm a long time lurker and feel like I love your cats almost as much as my own. It's so good that you and Roy found each other in life. Thinking of you..

Laurie, thank you so much for sharing Roy's story with all of us, its truly beautiful and uplifting. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Laurie,

I'm so sorry you lost your sweet old man. What a wonderful story, and thank you for sharing.

You were both so lucky to have each other.
xoxo

My heart truly aches for you. But I know Roy wouldn't have chosen any other life than the one you gave him. Even if it meant going through all the hell that he had to all over again, I know he would do it just to have you in his life. Please give all the other fur kids love from us. You know they sense the loss too.

Your story made me feel like I knew Roy and brought back sweet memories of my bestest feline friend, Bernard, all at the same time.

I bet Roy didn't know love could be super-sized until he met you.

Hugs + purrs from Margot, Oh and Hope

Dear God I am glad that I did not get a chance to read this whilst at work today-I am a mess now and in tears. So sorry for your loss, Laurie and I shall hoist another raspberry martini in Roy's memory.

Oh, Laurie...I am so sorry that Roy passed. I am glad that you were able to have each other for as long as you did, I guess it's just never quite long enough.

Oh, and thank you for putting that song in my head. I had forgotten how much I liked it. Especially the Kenny Loggins version.

Still thinking of you. Love also from Daisy, Pip and Gus.

How sad and sweet. You gave Roy such a beautiful gift. A chance to really live, to know what love is, and a chance to give love back. You saved his life, and he saved yours too.
Rest in peace Roy.
Good Cat.

Bless his sweet heart. And yours.

I'm another long-time lurker. My heart breaks for you and what you're going through. Thank you for sharing his story. I'm sitting here crying as I type. It sure hurts to lose a fur baby ...

I'm so sorry about your Roy, but how wonderful that you had each other in your lives. He will live on in your heart forever even though your arms miss him.
Ruth

Oh, Laurie. Thank you for sharing the story of Roy. I don't (really) know you and I don't (really) know your cats, but my heart physically hurt at the end of this story.

God bless Roy, and you.

I just came back to read the comments. I only made it about 1/2 way through. It makes me feel a *little* better knowing you have the support of your friends, fans and stalkers.

I know it doesn't feel like it, but people tell me it gets better (I'm still trying to feel better myself), or at least, less painful.

So, in the meantime, I'm sending you much love and positive thought vibes.

so sorry for your loss!

I am so sorry to hear about Roy's passing. They'e never really "just" cats, are they? At least you know the years with you made up for his early suffering and he had a wonderful later life.

I hope the other cats are hanging in there, my best wishes to you all.

Laurie, I'm so very sorry! I just lost my dog of 13-1/2 years, and I know it hurts so bad. I fell in love with Roy through your writing and will really miss him. I'll especially miss seeing photos of his beautiful blue eyes and of him cuddled up with Soba. Thank you so much for "sharing" him with us.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. I lost my Roy 2 years ago. His name was actually Ricky and I loved him just as you loved Roy. It hurts so to let them go but just know that he'll always be with you.

God bless you, sweet little Roy. Watch over us all.

You'll be in my thoughts, Laurie!
Jenny

I want to offer you and your cat family my condolences on the passing of your friend. I hope the fact that you gave Roy a new life filled with love will console you.

I'm so sorry. I lost my Smokey on Valentine's Day. I firmly believe they're in a wonderful place with soft cushions and sunny, bird-filled windows and tuna and catnip.

"It's gonna be all right." It may not feel like it now--but it will be. It will never be the same--but it will be all right.

And bacon. Maybe he's living in a house made of bacon, like in Hansel and Gretel (only without the witch of course).

Awww, Laurie, that was a beautiful tribute. I am so sorry for your loss. I'm glad you were able to be there with him.

CAP,
Sorry for your loss, everyone that has lost a cat can feel your pain.
Roy, however, is no longer feeling any pain, that is what must be focused on at this time.
(It really helps)
Cathy

i am so sorry for your loss.

I am so sorry, Laurie. Our furry friends go on a journey of love with us, and it's so hard to let them pass on to the next. My heart aches for you, and for your lovely kitties. God bless Roy, and may he rest in peace.

I usually never comment here, but today had to tell you what a lovely eulogy this was for Roy.

I have tears in my eyes.

I know you will miss him desperately.

:-( hugs for you!

how fortunate for him to have had you to give him a happy home....you made his life good.

I don't mean this to sound flippant at all - but have you considered a "Kitty-wake"? . When I lost my beloved pet I gathered all my friends around that knew him, including the Boyf, who got bitten by my protective furry baby on his first introduction and is still here ten years on. We shared pictures and pie (and the odd glass of wine) and paid special tribute to a cherished pet who broke through the emotional barriers to my heart that humans could never penetrate, who broke out of his cage every morning to wake me up before he went to bed after a night Hamster-ing. Whom I loved unconditionally and who I knew loved me back in his own selfish hamster way.

Maybe this is it, your Kitty-wake. Sharing your sorrow with people that care about you, about Roy, about all your furry babies, who love you unconditionally, even though most of us have never met you personally, but who share in your loss, and will show others your blog, so that they will care for you too.

Cherish the life Roy had with you. It was the best life that he could ever have wished for.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how much it hurts to lose a cherished cat like that. My sympathies for you and the Insane Kitty Posse (Possy?, Possie?).

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how much it hurts to lose a cherished cat/pet/friend like that. My sympathies for you and the Insane Kitty Posse (Possy?, Possie?).

It's so obvious how much love you have for Roy, and how much love he has for you. My heart goes out to you and your other three furballs. I'm sure they will miss Roy too. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Oh sweetie, I'm so sorry. You were the best mom he could ever have had.

I am so sorry for your loss.

Re-lurking,
Astabeth

We should all be so blessed to have someone love us so much that they write so beautifully of our life and passing. I think you were both lucky to have found each other and that special connection. My heart goes out to you, I am so very sorry for Roy's passing.

Maybe it's crazy to add a 900th or so comment to this amazing outpouring- but my heart is breaking for you and for your Roy. So much love.

im so very sorry. my babies came to me in very much the same way and i know nothing i could say could ease your loss. give your other furbabies a huge hug. i know they miss roy just as much.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. I'm just crying my eyes out sad for you. Makes me think of my gimpy ol' dog who I'm hoping hangs in there for a few more years. Hugs to you and the kitties.

So, so sorry. Can't stop crying. I just lost my 18 year old cat, Miss B.
You have let me get to know Roy (one of my favorite all-time names) over the last few years and I feel I knew him just a little. I am sorry he has gone and I wish I could give you a big hug.

So, so sorry. Can't stop crying. I just lost my 18 year old cat, Miss B.
You have let me get to know Roy (one of my favorite all-time names) over the last few years and I feel I knew him just a little. I am sorry he has gone and I wish I could give you a big hug.

There is nothing like cat love; we are all so lucky to have one or more cats in our lives that share their name, their hearts, and their love with us. It doesn't stop because they have shifted dimensions. It's there forever.

Laurie, you have my deepest sympathies; Roy sounds like a sweetie. (((hugs)))

I am glad Roy passed on peacefully, but so sorry for the pain you are in. It is terrible what it does to us when we have to say goodbye to the loves of our lives. What a beautiful boy.

I think anyone who has read your blog feels they know your cat family intimately. Roy will be missed by everyone who visits here. I'm so sorry for your loss. I will be keeping you and the rest of the kids in my thoughts.

I'm crying for you. This year we lost 2 of our beloved kitties and I know your pain all too well.
I'm so sorry Laurie.

Danielle

I am so, so sorry for your loss. Last September my grumpy old lady of a cat died-- she was 18, and was a grumpy old lady for at least 17 of those years. Like Roy, she had a serious skepticism for most people, and only connected with maybe four people that she ever met-- I feel so fortunate to have been one of them, and I still feel her loss every day. My thoughts are with you and the kitties.

I'm so sorry for your loss. He was beautiful. Be extra kind to your other kitties, they will miss him too - I remember when we had to put our dog Isis down when she had a stroke - our other dog was hunting high and low for her and pining for weeks!
My thoughts are with you.

Laurie dear, I'm #902 to tell you how sad I am for your loss. Roy is with my Georgie. I can't see the screen for tears. I'm so glad you and Roy had each other.

Sweet Laurie,
I tried to comment early this morning, but the tears kept getting in the way. What a gift you have for bringing us just to where it is with your eloquent writing. Hug to you, Darling. How lucky you and The Roy were to have each other. Cry some more and pour the Chardonnay.

I'll raise my glass in honor of Roy tonight and wish you all well.
Pat

Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I...myself have 3 cats that I call "family". Again, I'm so sorry...

You were in exactly the right place to provide love and guardianship when Roy needed it. When it was your turn he completed the circle. My deepest sympathies on the loss of your fur baby. Anyone who has ever lost one knows that it is more than just a pet. You have lost part of your family. Grieve well for him and celebrate his life.

I lost my 19 year old black and white called called Eric. He looks just like the cat on the cover of your book. I held him as he left this world as well. I still miss him.
Carol

How fortunate that you found each other. What a deeply happy cat he must have been, to be so loved and able to love in return.

yeesh, am i crying! next to me is my cat, who saved me after a break up and is still the reason i get up most mornings (you know, breakfast). roy's lucky to have met you, and what i like best about your post is that you know you're lucky to have met him.

Oh god I'm so sorry. I've only just recently been looking through your blog. And becaue I needed soemthing happy the other day, I searched for pics of Roy, found them and they made me feel good.

I can't say more because this is too much now, but believe me, in the short time I've "known" Roy I can say nothing more than he was more beautiful than he ever knew.

I'm so sorry.

Thank you for sharing that beautiful story - I think you were truely meant to find each other. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Oh, what a lovely tribute to your sweet boy. I will miss him. Hugs to you, it's so hard to lose a good friend.

thank you for introducing us to roy and allowing us to read your written memorial to him. it sounds like the two of you were there for each other when needed. that is the purest form of friendship and love i know of.

So very sorry. I don't care what Sister Ruffina said, if there is such a thing, cats definitely have souls. Some of them have most pure souls. Bless Roy, and bless you for giving him such happiness.

I know all your regulars and all your lurkers are going to come out to send you our best wishes. I have to tell you, I loved Roy too--loved the way you spoke about him, loved the looks he gave the camera--and he will be sorely missed by everyone.

(It was great meeting you at BEA, by the way.)

I am so very sorry for your great loss. Roy was beautiful. You have my sympathy.

What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful cat. I am crying, my husband's crying and we are going to go snorgle our cat til he cant' stand it anymore.

We'll miss Roy.

Laurie,
Thank you for sharing the story of Roy with all of your readers. He was a wonderful creature and I am sure he loved and appreciated every moment he had with you. Your love and care for him carried over in your many postings, and you truly could not have done more.
I am sorry for your loss.

Dear Laurie,

I'm yet another one here crying... at least I'm not at work. I don't comment often but I read you every day and I loved Roy too. I'm so sorry. I still miss my Yoda, years after his death -- that's why I just spent all kinds of money to save my Joey's life a couple months ago, I couldn't go through that again when I knew he could still have a great life. Like someone else said: if our pets aren't in heaven, I ain't goin'.

Even a cat-non-appreciater like me found it easy to fall in love with your Roy. God bless you as you mourn, dear Laurie. Your post is such a beautiful tribute to your friend.

I'm so very, very sorry.

Add me to the long list of people who are grieving with you today. As I'm sitting here sobbing, my pup is uncontrollable licking my leg...they sure know us well and can sense. Consider yourself so lucky to have experienced a love so wonderful that you are grieving the way you are.

oh laurie, i am saddened to hear about roy. he was definitely meant to be with you....your story of roy shows your love for your little man. i'm crying for you and for me, too, even though it's been about 14 years since my little kizae passed on.

i had not thought about my little kizae man in a while until i got to the part where you wrote how roy would lay next to your pillow. kizae would curve his body around the top of my head and massage my scalp with that little kneading motion that cats do. it took me months to fall asleep after he passed on.

you're in my thoughts and prayers.

Laurie - I am so so sorry. I always look forward your cat pictures and tales and when I got to the end of this one I got all choked up. Brings back memories of my furry kids that have passed. You were both blessed to have each other.
Many hugs to you and your other felines who will miss this great man, ROY.
XO

Miss Fifi

thank you so much for sharing the story of Roy. what a beautiful and sweet guy. it's great to have the four legged ones in our lives but boy does it suck when they go before us.

So many people telling you how sorry we are about Roy. How lucky he was to have you. I'm so sorry.

Roy was a pure, sweet soul just like you are, Laurie. I could see that just in the pictures you posted of him. He was meant to be your cat. The hard times he went through prepared him to know how to comfort you during the hard times you went through. You were both blessed to have found each other and we, your readers, are blessed to have found you both. That was such a beautiful tribute to him. We should all be so lucky to be loved like that.

I am so sorry to hear about your Roy. I just love when you post pictures and stories of your kitties, and I have always had the biggest soft spot in my heart for Roy. Maybe because you have talked about him as such a gentleman of a kitty.

I know how you miss him terribly...I lost my beloved cat in February and think about him everyday. No one will ever be able to fill that spot in my heart, but I am comforted by the thought that he is at the Rainbow Bridge, having fun and waiting for me.

You're in my thoughts and prayers.

So sorry to hear about Roy. What awesome memories you have of him.

Im crying with you. Im so sorry for your loss.

Laurie, you sure know how to bring tears to a girl's eyes. My heart goes out to you--I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Roy rocked!

I'm so sorry...this is actually the first post I've read of your blog. Roy sounded incredibly cute!

So, so sorry.

How wonderful that you and Roy found one another all those years ago. How wonderful that you had all that time together. How sad our furbabies don't stay with us longer. How tightly I hold you and your furbabies in my heart tonight. I'm so sorry.

Oh dear.... But you gave Roy the most comfortable of deaths: cradled, loved, secure and having pleasure of a familiar song of love..... My prayers are for you....

Tears on my keyboard. I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like you two were a pair of kindred souls. No more words to give other than to tell you that we are all thinking of you.

I think this is possibly the sweetest thing I have ever read. I think people tend to downplay it when pets pass on. Thank you for not doing that. I know when my babies leave it will be crushed, but still so grateful for everything they brought to my life. They become part of your family and love you in a way that no person ever could. Thanks so much for sharing that story with us and be sure to have a good cry for Roy. I'm sure you already have, though. Thinking of you!

Laurie, I'm so terribly sorry. I'm crying right along with you and everyone else.

Aww, Laurie. I'm so sorry for your loss... I know that you really loved Roy and he knew it too. Rats.

Laurie,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved buddy. I know Roy is missed so much. You gave each other so much love and you gave him such a wonderful life.

Birgitta

i'm crying over a cat who knew his name that i never met. as soon as i saw the title i was afraid what the end of the post would hold. i'm sorry.

Oh, Laurie, my heart goes out to you. I'm so glad you and Roy had each other, it breaks my heart to think of how Roy was abused. I feel like you made it up to him, and he repaid you thousandfold.

I know you don't know me, but my son and I love to read about your kitties, and my son loved that Roy had a mysterious past. He doesn't understand abuse, he thought Roy was a spy or he blew stuff up for the military or stuff like that--Bond, Roy Bond. My son drew a picture of Roy going into the crinkle cave saying, "Cover me, I'm going in."

It may sound silly, but I cried when I read your post, because I love Roy, his sweet face and his snaggletooth and how beautifully you write about him, the love shines through in every word. Thank you for sharing Roy with us all. He will be missed.

I'm so sorry!

I'm so very sorry. From the name of the post, I wasn't expecting such a sad ending. Cats are such loving little creatures. Please know that my thoughts are with you.

My James told me his name in much the same way. We were driving home from the vet and I kept saying names to him. When I saw the sign for Jamesway (a store) it was partially obscured by trees so I just read "James" and this little orange paw reached out and touched my leg.

I'm so sorry, sweetie. I'm crying for you and Roy right now.

*hugs* Laurie. I'm sure Roy is settling in on his pillow and watching you right now with a song in his heart. He reminds me a lot of my Red, who taught the others how to cross streets and sneak into the food cabinet, and would break up fights between the other cats because he didn't like all the noise. Hopefully they'll meet up and cause all kinds of trouble until we get there to calm them down again.

Roy was always my favorite of your kitties. My heartfelt condolences. I'm sure that he's dining on well-deserved celestial bacon.

I am so sorry. I knew where this was going at the start but hoped it wasn't true. I have loved and lost these guys before and I am always amazed at the space they leave behind. I am sorry.

Roy is your "lifetime cat"---that one that stands out somehow more than all the others, though we love them too. The one that comes along just once. Animals like Roy are the reason I walked away from my job to work in an animal shelter, and stories like yours give me hope that the work we do means something. I cannot imagine your pain right now. My heart is with you and with Roy.

Sounds like you were one lucky lady to have such a cat. Almost as lucky as he was to have you.

I'm so glad that you found Roy, Laurie, and that he found you.

:)

That was so lovely, and of course made me cry. Our cats are truly personalities of thier own and rescue cats are that much more special. I think they understand and relate to us that much better. I'm so sorry about Roy's passing, it sucks so much to lose a kitty. Thinking of you.....

I am so sorry about Roy. Your story made me feel happy and sad all at the same time. I know what it's like to have a cat that's part of you. Hopefully all of these comments will let you know how many people love Roy and you.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing the Story of Roy.

Been there. My heart is just breaking for you.

Laurie,

I'm sitting here sobbing and petting my rescue kitty Lola as I type this. I dread the day when she leaves me because she is a true love for me as Roy is for you. I'm so sorry for his passing, but there's a special place for him beyond this life.

Oh, Laurie. I am so very sorry. I've never posted before but I have been reading for a very long time and feel as though I know your cats (and you, too ). After nursing him back from a condition which apparently no one had tried to do (the vet said she couldn't make any predictions on how he would do because people always chose to put them to sleep), my dear Boppin became my shadow. He was partially paralyzed but managed to figure out how to get himself wherever I was and slept in the crook of my arm every night for the remaining 8 months of his life. He died 2.5 years ago and barely a day goes by that I don't think of him. I know how a cat can wrap himself around your heart and how very, very sad you are going to be. Roy was fortunate to have you and perhaps he and my dear Boppin are together somewhere along with all the other dearly departed kitties who are so missed by the humans they owned. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

The only design flaw in pets is that they leave too soon. Godspeed to Roy and hugs to you.

I'm so sorry to hear of Roy's passing. Thank you for sharing how Roy told you his name. Just as much as he was there for you, you were there for him. My thoughts are with you.

I am so very sorry.

I'm so sorry about Roy. He was lucky to live out his life with you as his best friend.

I think this is the first time I've posted, but I'm a long time reader and a huge fan of you and your cats.

I can't really say what hasn't already been said, so here is a big hug. I like the idea of Roy becoming president some day. I hope to come back as a cat, actually. :)

Echoing the sentiments of everyone else: You and Roy made me cry at work. My heart is with you. What an amazing life Roy lead and how you blessed each other! I will miss his antics and photos.

I'm so glad both you and Roy were able to spend so many wonderful years together. I hope the memories can help to ease your pain at this time.

I'm also a long time lurker and had to post my sympathies - I know how much it hurts. What a beautiful story. I particularly appreciate that you chose the seemingly most unwanted cats at the shelter... I've volunteered at a few and it always made me sad that so many great cats had trouble finding homes because people didn't want to take the time to let them come around or because they just wanted the cutest/most perfect cat. I'm glad you and Roy (and Sobakowa) found each other.

i think that Roy found the love of his life in you...you gave him unconditional love, a safe and comfortable place to live, and roomates to keep him company while you were away...you did a wonderful job. i am glad you shared this story. it reminds us all of our pets of the past. my favorite cat was an old male that found me at my house. he said his name was Ed...so that was it. He was in terrible condition when i found him in the yard, and he became the most loving of all my cats. well that sounds like i am a crazy cat collector...no, i had only 2 others at the time. now i have one long haired dark grey cat, fairly young. i hope to have a long life with him. i just bond with the kitties...what can i say?
i knew roy would go soon. i am glad he was allowed to go in peace. you are an excellent cat-mama...
(((((hugs))))) to you, and the rest of the kitties.

I'm so sorry he's gone Laurie--he sounds like he was a damn fine cat

I am so, so sorry that Roy's gone...and so glad you two had each other for as long as you did. What a lucky, perfect match for both of you. What a wonderful way to go: quietly, being sung to by the love of your life. If souls do come back, I have no doubt that he'll find you again!

I'm so so sorry.

Oh Laurie, I am so sad to hear about your loss. I´m a longtime lurker who never leaves comments but I just loved your Roy so much that this post breaks my heart and I had to say something. I just HATE losing pets. It´s so hard. You were so lucky to find each other when you did and to have taken care of each other all these years. My heart goes out to you. I want to read the post again but can´t as I have only just calmed down from reading it the last time. Take a big hug from me all the way down in Mexico. x

Oh laurie...your love story made me cry.

hugs to you girl...and thank you for sharing your heart and Roy with us....

I'm so sorry to read about Roy. He was such a lovely cat. Such a lucky cat to have found someone who looked after him and loved him so well.

Oh Laurie. I am so very sorry for your loss of such a great companion. To be understood is a precious thing, even when the one who 'gets it' isn't human.

This is really such a lovely tribute.
You're a special woman. That's for sure.

Oh I'm so sorry about your lost, Roy will always be there for you in spirit I'm sure.

Hugs
Kitty

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. He was beautiful.

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry to hear of Roy's passing. It's just so sad. I'm glad he had you to love him.

I am so incredibly sorry to hear about Roy's passing. He was so lucky to have such a loving and special mom. Thank you for telling us how special Roy is. My cats are wondering why their mom is crying and I'll give them extra chin scratches tonight.

I'm so so sorry for your loss. What a blessing you were in his little life after such a rough beginning. (((HUGGS))) Take care and don't let anyone tell you you shouldn't take time to grieve after the loss of a dear pet. All those who have loved an animal will understand...and the rest are loosers anyway.

I'm so sorry. Those words are totally inadequate. I'm sitting here bawling and so wish I could give you a hug.

Roy was a wonderful cat, and after the hardships in his earlier life, he was very fortunate to have a wonderful human to love and appreciate him.

I am so sorry to hear about Roy. I just started bawling as soon as I read that.

We had a cat we named Mindy. Apparently she didn't like the name Mindy, because instead of meowing she said "myrtle" Eventually we changed her name to Myrtle, and after that she would always meow.

Roy was a good cat and soooooooooo lucky to have you in his life. So sorry :(

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry! I loved how you would write about him, and how he was so sweet and snuggly. I think he is going to be right there for you when you go. He'll hear your Jeep pull up, and he'll be the first one you see.

I am so sorry. I cried for you, remembering the time two years ago when I realized at the vet's office that it was time to put my 13 year old cat, Siouxsie, to sleep. I sat with him and apologized to hom for being selfish and letting him suffer because I couldn't let him go, and then I sang to him like I used to when I tried to keep him calm on long car rides. My heart goes out to you.

Oh, I'm so sorry. I'll be thinking about you and the other kitties. And that song... that is my kitten Dewey's and my song, too. I'll sing it to him tonight in memory of Roy.

So sorry for the loss of your dear Roy, and here is my favorite cat quote to comfort you: "meow, purrrrrr"

I just cried, and then I hugged and kissed both my big ol' bruisers.

You and Roy were very lucky to have found each other :-)

This made me cry. I'm so sorry for you Laurie.
You and the rest of your furry family will be in my thoughts.

I am so sorry for your loss. I found your site a year ago, Googling "Chairman Meow," which had become a nickname for our tortie, Emmy. That is how we became introduced to Sobakawa, and, by extension, Roy. My boyfriend and I love reading your cat-related stories - I send him links with pictures because he adores cats, and yours in particular are adorable. I just started crying and I never met Roy - I can only imagine how you feel.

You and your feline companions are in my thoughts. May wherever Roy is be replete with love and bacon.

Still crying... after 990+ comments... I'm so sorry about Roy.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. You painted such a beautiful picture of Roy's personality, and I know that he will be missed.

So very, very sorry for your loss.
((hugs))

I am comment 992, but I have to comment anyway. I'm so, so sorry. Roy was such a special boy, and he's in a better place now, feeling young and carefree. But he'll be waiting for you -- I'm pretty sure heaven is a place with cats.

I'm so sorry. Roy was very lucky to have you. And you are very lucky to have had him.

Peace to you and your furry family.

So sorry about Roy. I still miss my cat Caliope and she's been gone for 10 years.

Oh Laurie,

My heart is breaking for you tonight. When I firts saw the title I was glad I would find out the story of Roy, but as it went on I felt a feeling of dread...I knew what you were headed for, I even stopped reading for a minute and said to myself, no Julie, you are wrong, it is just the story of Roy. But then I saw it was as I feared...I have barely got a handle on myself as I am crying hard tonight, for you and your loss so fresh, for me and my loss of a few years ago and for all the others that have lost a special cat in their life. I know the pain you are feeling. I am crying for you tonight because I know how sad you are and how hard this will be.
It will get a little better with time and you will have your memories to comfort you. Keep Roy close to your heart. He loved you so much and now he will watch over you. You will never be alone, Roy will always be with you.
Take it slow. I am sending you comforting thoughts. Take care of yourself.
Julie

What a beautiful story and wonderful way to tell a sad tale. But it's not, it's a happy one, because of all the love. All of the LOVE.

I'll miss seeing Roy's picture around this joint. He brightened my day more than once. Thank you for giving him a good life, Laurie.

I'm so sorry Roy is gone in body, but julie above me is right, he will always be with you.

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. But, I'm glad you got to share time with him, and to know that you gave him all the love in the world when no one else would makes it all the more special. I wish I could give you a hug! So, instead I'll have to give my snorty kitty a hug and a big kiss! Once I stop crying of course.

Love you sweetie, (even though I've never met you!), and hope that we'll still see pictures of his gorgeous face here once in awhile. Give your other kitties extra kisses for alll of us! :)

Oh, honey. My friend Babygirl told me to go home, put my PJ's on and read this post, BUT UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should I read it at work. She was right. I'm in utter tears now, wishing I could hug you (even thought I don't know you and that would be wierd but we have the cat lady thing in common... and knitting... anyway). I am so, so sorry that Roy went on to kitty heaven. I had to give my fur children away because my husband is allergic (and sometimes he's not worth it), but I used to sing "Its the End of (Gabriel's) World as We Know It" to him, b/c he was always flipping out about something, and I would sing "Psychokitty (Psychokiller by Talking Heads)... q'est-ce que c'est?" to my little man Xander. They were with me during a horrible period of my life and caring for them was, sometimes, the only reason I got out of bed. Gabriel broke irreplaceable crystal knicknacks, chewed through the strap on a DKNY purse, made me spend almost $2,000 saving his life, and even though I know he's having a helluva time in his new home, I miss my little smooshy face so... I hope your other kitties comfort you tonight as you grieve... and you SHOULD grieve, because Roy was a lovey of a cat and he will be missed by all kittykind. Sleep well, girl.

My condolences, Laurie. You and Roy are in my thoughts...know that there are tears falling for Roy all the way down in Texas. Roy was a great cat, and a loving cat, and he will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.

I'll be thinking of you, and praying for you and Roy.

Laurie,
I am so sorry. I'm happy Roy was there for you and you were there for him. As Sunny said, thanks for giving him a good life.

I am very sorry to learn about the passing of Roy. My thoughts are with you.

When I opened your blog this morning, I thought, "Oh Wonderful, Roy!" Because there was his beautiful face. As I began reading...I knew. Couldn't finish it then, but went back to it. I am going to miss Roy so much. I understand this tremendous loss for you. Even before your story, I sensed something different about Roy--he was special.

This poem is a little corny, but it touched me when my vet sent it to me when I lost my Caddie. And so I share it with you, dear Laurie, love of Roy's life.

"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together...."

And of course, you will be singing your special song to Roy. So sorry.....

Laurie:

I am so sorry for your loss, but take heart in knowing that Roy gave you what most people will never understand. He gave you his soul and his love, unconditionally. Mosy people don;t understand cats, but I do.

It has been one year since I had to put our beloved Mitzi out of her pain and suffering. We miss her dearly, but we are so glad that she shared our lives with her.

Roy will be there when you least expect it. If it helps, plant something that reminds you of him. It does help ease the pain.

God Speed Roy. Go sit in Lady Bird's lap until your mother can join you.

I'm not sure there is much left to say after 1000+ comments. I will, however, contribute my tiny reminder that your writing and your love of life helps us all be better people, one little blog entry at a time.

Oh, Laurie, I'm so sorry. I know exactly what you're going through and nothing I can say will make it better. But though the pain never goes completely away, in time, this urgency of grief will fade. Just always treasure the knowledge that you were lucky enough to have found each other.

I'm so very sorry, Laurie. Thank you for sharing Roy with us. You were everything and more that he needed in life. Take care, xo

I am so very sorry.

You were both so lucky to find each other.

Oh I'll miss seeing pictures of Roy's cute face. Even though I've never met him and I've never met you, I love your cats. And my cat. Oh I have to go hug my cat right this moment. I'm so sorry.

Laurie, how lucky Roy was that you found him. How lucky you were that you found him. Damn you just a little bit for making me cry reading the Story of Roy to my husband.

good-bye, roy, old man. we'll miss you

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy; his story was so sweet and good and lovely, just as I'm sure he was.

I am so very sorry for your loss, deepest sympathy. It wouldn't be called heaven unless all our dear pets were there too.

I was reading it, and loving it, and then, all of a sudden, I came to the part...that part, and I think I yelled out. At any rate, I thought, "No no no no, Roy's gone?" I am so so so so sorry... *Tears*

Laurie, thank goodness Roy found you after such a terrible start in life. I know that his time with you was nothing but happiness and love, and the sweetie boy more than deserved that. Good-bye, beloved Roy.

Now your Roy and my Ruby can finally meet and play together.

Hugs to you and the cat posse.

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss, and I hope the memories of Roy stay with your for a long time.

My cats definitly recognize when my husband is coming home, and will pace before the door even before I hear him park the car outside. Maybe it's a cat instinct. Maybe they just know that with his arrival comes dinner. You are the only other person who has had a cat do the same thing!

Laurie,

So sorry for your loss. I'm sure Mr. Roy is trying to evade the pursuit of Lucy, our ten year old beagle who died last April. Don't worry, though, all she does is give wet, sloppy kisses.

I am so sorry. Poor Roy. I didn't know he had been abused. He was a lucky, lucky guy to have found you. He couldn't have had a better momma for his last years.

Rest in peace, Roy.

Laurie,This truly was a lovely tribute to your wonderful Roy.Like everyone else I have tears streaming down my face all because we feel like we know you and your pain is being felt by over 1,000 friends tonight.

Everything I can think of to say has been said. Still, I have to pass along my condolences on your loss. You & Roy were so lucky to have each other. A pet can be more of a "soulmate" than any human.

May you and your babies find comfort in each other during this difficult time.

Laurie, I'm so sorry. I'm looking at my cats now, two days ahead of flying overseas with them to a new home and I can't imagine my life without them. You're a great cat mommy.

What? :( I'm so sorry Laurie. Your post made me cry. I think a lot of non-pet people do not realize that our pets are part of our family.

I am so sorry about your loss. But what a beautiful tribute to Roy you wrote. And look at how many people you and he have touched. I hope this brings comfort during this difficult time.

Oh how heartwrenching and bittersweet. You were so fortunate to have each other in this crazy life. Bless Roy's Aunt Purl lovin' heart.

Laurie:

I hope all the love and caring thoughts expressed here comfort you during this sad time.

Each of you gave the other such a gift. Sending big hugs to you and your furry family.

I'm sorry for the loss of your beautiful Roy.

I'm so sorry your Roy is gone. (((Laurie)))

Another delurker here to tell you how sorry I am - We got our cats (my first) 1 1/2 years ago and when one went missing for just one night I was a wreck. Your tribute to Roy was so eloquent - he was a very special cat.

What a touching tribute - you gave Roy such a great life and he brightened yours.

Laurie, I'm so so sorry. What a beautiful story, and what a sweet boy he was.

Oh, Sweetie, I am so sorry. I just wanted to join everyone else in saying that I wish you well, and your post was so sweet that I'm crying at I type. Roy couldn't have had a better remembrance than this.

I'm so sorry, Laurie.

Today's entry took me by surprise and I found myself crying at my desk at work. I knew I'd eventually read this news, I didn't think it would happen so soon.

When I look at your pictures of Roy, I can't help but touch my computer screen to stroke the side of his face- we're blessed in having spent time with an old man/woman cat.

It's hard to comprehend the frail, tiny body so still. I imagine how wonderful it must feel for them, though- starting off in such a lonely and sad life, ending with more peace and happiness than they could possibly imagine, surrounded by those who love and appreciate them. Then suddenly free of the body that was starting to slow down, feel confining for a rejuvenated spirit that only wanted to soar.

You gave him such a gift, Laurie. You were his guardian angel and now he can return the favor.

Rest in peace, Roy- and watch over your mama's okra, will you?

A beautiful tribute to a dear friend. Roy's pawprints will always be on your heart.

I'm so sorry, Laurie. From your stories, he sounded like a beautiful soul in a little furry body. You were both lucky to have each other.

oh goodness, Laurie i am SO sorry. many good thoughts coming your way as you grieve your sweet Roy. what a special kitty and a special mama to love him so much.

Laurie, we're sending hugs your way. So sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing Roy's story - he was a special little guy - and one of the many reasons I love your blog. I'm hugging my 2 a little tighter tonight.

Dear Laurie, What a loving tribute! I'm sure Roy is up there telling his new friends all about _his_ human, who speaks and understands feline. Laurie, you're in my prayers for comfort. Just north of you near Santa Barbara, if you would like a beachy visit.

Oh, that made tears roll down my face.

My condolences to you and the other kitty cats, Laurie. I'm glad that Roy had such a wonderul life with you and the kitties -- and that you got to have such a wonderful life with him.

Bye-bye Roy.

condolences

i'm so sorry laurie. i'm sure he's having a fabulous time in cat heaven. xx

Laurie, hon, I am so sorry. When I realized, about halfway through, that you were talking in the past tense, I got chills.

I think we could use a president like Roy - rough background, didn't have everything handed to him on a platter, wise beyond his years, loyal, knows what you need before you do. What a great cat.

Who know if you will make it all the way down to comment number One Thousand Whatever, but had to let you know that many many people are thinking of you and your loving little Roy tonight.

I'm sending in a donation to the local humane society and thinking of Roy.

Best wishes!

Giving you warm hugs of understanding. As much as I love my young dogs, my tiny teacup Poodle Bunny was the love of my life and my constant companion. I miss her every single day since she passed over the Rainbow Bridge on January 30, 2006. I am so sorry for your loss. If love could have saved them - they would have lived forever.

I'm so, so sorry. :(

I'm sorry for your lose. It's great that you two found each other!
big hugs( )

Laurie, I am so sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful celebration of your friend, Roy. I am sitting here now full of sadness.

Your loss also reminded me of my beautiful ratties, two of whom passed this year, Janola and Fiona. I loved them and they also talked to me. (My husband seems to understand it when I have full conversations with my rats.) People with pets are special. We learn to give and receive unconditional love. I know Roy is waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.

I was crying to hard when i first read this to post. I guess I'm still sensitive about my dog passing last April. What a beautiful post. I laughed and then unexpectedly bawled my eyes out.

Oh Laurie,

I'm so, so very sorry. The two of you were very lucky to have found one another. My heart goes out to you.

(((hugs)))

AAAH crap. Sorry to hear that about Roy. Sounds like you guys were a perfect match and it's awesome that you loved him and gave him a chance at a wonderful life.

I'm mostly a lurker, reading from the safety of Google Reader, but I just wanted to say that I've enjoyed reading about Roy for quite awhile now and I'm terribly sorry for your loss. You gave him such a wonderful life.

What can you say a time like this. I'm so sorry barely covers it.

I'll give my Winnie, my shadow, an extra hug for you.

You did your cat proud with that wonderfully written tribute. Roy will always live in your heart and tickle your mind with sweet memories. What a blessing to have loved him, and he you. May your sadness soon turn into just all that lingering love that death cannot end.

I know what it's like to lose a pet, especially one so dear. And this may sound a little weird, but when I read that I just started bawling.

I've been reading your blog for many, many months now, and it seems like your cats are my cats. And I'm still crying.

I'm so very sorry. But I'm so very happy that he had you to give him such a loving, caring home, and that he was able to be there for you when no one else was. Nothing in the world can beat a loyal cat. For real.

OMG, this just brought back sad memories when I lost my cat too so I know how you're feeling. Just reading this brought tears to eyes. Roy was lucky to have you as you were lucky to have him.

I am so sorry for your loss. What a loving and beautiful tribute you wrote for Roy. I was crying the second I realized he had passed. Big hugs to you...

I am all the sudden crying. So unexpectedly...I'm so so sorry for you, and for the tears that you must be shedding and shedding too. Losing THAT pet, and THAT love is so so hard.
Know that there are so many out there thinking of you with good thoughts, even Roy...somewhere

xoxo ugh...(tears rolling down my face, my little dog licking them off)...love love to you. i'm so sorry for your loss....xoxo
lorri in idahoooo

I am so sorry... thank you for sharing both Roy's and your story with us.

My thoughts are with you.

He loved you and he knew you loved him. That's the best kind of life. I'm sorry he's gone.

I am so, so sorry, Laurie. I figured out what had happened about halfway through your post, and my sobbing woke up my housemate.

I'm not religious, but my vet's office once had a sign up that read "Our animal friends are God's way of taking care of us." I really believe that is true. They are all so special. Thank you for sharing Roy's story.

Oh sweet pea!
I'm so sorry about your Roy. Saying goodbye is so hard. My thoughts are with you.

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. I know what it's like to lose a cat you love so much. I truely believe we'll be able to cuddle our dear pet friends again in heaven.

You wrote him a really nice "in loving memory" blog entry. As people have said, saying goodbye is hard, but I'm glad you were there, and you could say good bye as he died, and sing to him so that he would know it's ok. I'm pretty sure there's a kitty heaven, right up there with the people heaven. I said good-bye to my great-grandma last month, but I'm so glad I got to be there for her so she knew it was ok. I'm pretty sure my great-grandma is somewhere with all my dead family and a constant pot of coffee on. In the same way, Roy probably has a free flowing river of catnip and a soft pillow that smells like you.

Laurie,

Just another of the thousands crying over your story and loss of Roy. He was truly lucky you found him and gave him so much peace in the second half of his life. We'll all miss seeing his precious pictures. I'm sorry too. Hang in there.

Oh Laurie, I'm think of you so right now. There are no words for a loss like that. *hugs*

I just don't undertand why people hurt animals over and over. Thankfully Roy got another chance with you and bless you for making the last part of his love one filled with love and comfort. You really are a good person.

count me in with the people that are crying. it is a blessing to have our babies in our lives. my heart goes out to you. as far as telling you his name, i totally understand. :) *hug*

Bet your heart is feeling heavy right now-and the other cats' too. It is the hardest thing to lose a special soul-mate like that. I started reading your blog, believe it or not, because Roy looked JUST like my Snowman(weird name, long story, snow tiger thing going on). Snowy is huge but lets you hold him like a baby , when he isn't off killing gophers or some other creature on the ranch here. I love it that someone sings to their cat besides me. When I lost my horse almost 6 years ago, it was like losing a piece of myself. He had been with me through EVERYTHING-getting married, grad school, babies...and he talked to me, took care of me like Roy did for you. I miss him every day. A friend carved a granite river rock from the river by our place and I put his name on it and the line from a poem that rang true for me: "Rejoice that he ever was." I walk by the rock every day, out in the pasture where he is buried in his favorite place. Rejoice that Roy ever was-and he was for you.

Laurie, crying at work again. earlier you're blog made my cry of laughter but not today. somewhere in the middle of the story, when I realized why you were telling the story about how Roy got his name, my heart started to hurt. all I want to do is to get home and hug my cat. I do not know what to say other than I'm thinking of you. Love and thoughts from sweden

I will always have a special place in my heart for the Roy.

I found your blog about a month ago. I became obsessed. I started from the very beginning and every spare moment I had I would read your blog. Your kitty pictures always make me smile. We recently moved to Malmo, Sweden. About a month before we moved we had to have our kitty, Wilbur, put to sleep. He had become very sick with some extremely rare disease. One day we took him to the vet for "tests." I spent several hours in the little exam room with my two children (then 4 1/2 and 18 months) while Wilbur was "in the back." During that time my daughter learned how to say "meow." It was the last time we saw Wilbur. Wilbur was the best kitty for children. He would let them pull his tail, his whiskers, his ears. My son would put his head on Wilbur's tummy and push him across the floor (with his head.) The kids would sit on Wilbur, lay on Wilbur. And Wilbur would purr loudly - basking in all the 'attention.'

My son still talks about how much he misses Wilbur.

I am so very sorry for your loss.

Dear Laurie,

I read this at work this morning and when I realized you were writing in past tense I gasped out a breath and "oh no...oh no, no!" I had to wait until now tonight to be able to cry. I am amazed that I feel this so deeply, but you have made Roy so real for me in your posts and now I'm sitting here absolutely sobbing over a wonderful cat that I have never met. I can see by the many, many posts that I am not alone. Thank you for sharing his story which you wrote so beautifully - you were each so blessed to have found the other. *hugs* to you and the kitties.

Sweet Laurie,
I am so sorry for your loss of bacon-cat. I will miss Roy too, not because he was my #1 cat, but because he was my favorite snaggle-tooth Soba-lover who I got to read about at least once a week.
my prayers with you and the kitties. *hugs*

I knew he was going to go sometime...but I was hoping it would be later than sooner.

I have 3 Roys. I actually have 5 Sobas sitting on my back porch.

I had my best boy die five years ago and it's a hole that a 1000 cats can't fill.

I'm sorry.

Much Love

Laurie, I'm so sorry to hear of Roy's passing. Thank you for letting us get to know him. Your tribute to him is wonderful. Cookie, my 15 year old Calico crossed the rainbow bridge just 2 weeks ago, and I know in my heart that she was there waiting for Roy.Hope you can feel all the love and hugs coming your way. I pray your sadness ends quickly. You were very lucky to be with him at the end. He was very loyal and loved you very much.

I will really miss that Roy and his bacon-loving ways. He was truly an amazing cat, and you were a truly amazing mom to him. I hope you're hanging in there OK.

It's weird, my comment is posted under catherine.

However, I feel your pain.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Roy will make an awesome president one day. Thank you so much for your bravery in opening yourself up like this. It was an amazing story that you shared. You'll be in my thoughts (in a non-creepy, non-stalker way ;) ).

Vale Roy.
For the time together--lucky CAP, lucky Roy.

Oh I'm crying now. Big hugs to you. Wasn't he so fortunate to have been adopted by someone who loved him so much, what good companions you were to each other.

I'm so sorry to hear such sad news!

What an amazing obituary though. At the beginning I was smiling away at a sweet cat story, and then you went into the past tense and I started to get a yucky feeling, and by the end I was nearly crying at work! Roy was obviously much loved to receive such a beautiful send-off.

Aw sweetie.

I just read. I'm so sorry.
You changed his life and he loved you for it.
But for right now,

cry when you want to.

xxoxo
L

To quote the Pet Psychic:

You never get over them, you just get used
to living without them.

There's so much love for you here.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with us, what a special boy. You were both so lucky to find each other.

I'm crying now for you, and for me. And everyone else with cat or dog-shaped holes in their hearts. It hurts so much, even after so many years.

{{{{{Laurie}}}}} You saved him and loved him and he loved you and you were both with each other until the last. There can be no better way to go through that door.

Roy's going to have lots of new friends to share stories with while he waits for you, that's for sure. One of them will be a little Siamese, another cat with only one fang; Lu Ahng, who ran away from home and found me and refused to leave. She always knew I was coming home, too; even the time I'd gone on a trip and came back in a different car she'd never seen or heard. She went hunting a very, very long time ago. She'll be the one with two horses who didn't mind a cat sitting on their rumps; and my husband, Mike, who had gentle hands. He liked bacon, too. He'll share.

Ok, now I have to go cry some more...

Sorry to hear about Roy - big hugs to you and the other furbabies

Oh Roy.

Hugs to you. I'm so glad you made each other happy.

You were lucky to find each other.

Now I have to go hide in a stall and have an ugly-cry.

I love reading about your cats, Laurie, and am so sorry that your darling Roy has gone. He had a wonderful life once he met you and made your life richer by far. You wrote about him so movingly - it's not just half the USA crying about it, it's half the internet!
I love your story about naming Roy - it made me remember naming my cat Mia and all the names I tried out on her.(She's called that, after 2 weeks nameless, because she sits up on her hind end like a meerkat)
Again, my sincere condolences for your loss.

O man,
and the Abbie the Cat link - crap.

Fine, make me sob.
But I'm crying for you too.

L.

If it will help, I'm willing to adopt some zuccini.

I am so sorry for your loss. May your memories give you joy and peace. Pets fill a spot in our lives that even those closest to us cannot fathom, or come near. {{HUGS}}

Oh Laurie. I am so, so sorry. :o(

*hugs*

I'm so sorry to hear this. It's hard when any of them go, but some are just plain special.

Oh Laurie,

So sorry to hear that the Great Roy has left us.

Tears started coming up to my eyes as I was reading...hoping I was picking up the wrong clues from all your past-tenses, until it just starred me in the screen.

Like most who posted I have never met you, nor your amazing feline friends, yet I wish I could give you a big hug.

I am sure the other house residents will look after you well.

Thanks for that lovely post and touching tribute...

Long time lurker but I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry for your loss.
It’s a testament to how wonderful our animal friends are that so many people have expressed their sorrow here. I’m a dog person myself but know what it’s like to lose a friend like Roy. My thoughts are with you...

I have a "Roy" too. Her name is Caiomhe, and she is a tiny furball of sass and love. I can't bear the thought of losing her. So sorry for your loss :(

oh Laurie, I am so sorry. I am really going to miss Roy. (another long time reader, first time commenter)

Another long-time lurker coming out of hiding to post for the first time -- with hugs and well-wishes in memory of Roy.

What a great story. You can always remember him as a beautiful and loving cat!
I'm sorry for your loss!

I'm sorry to hear that Roy's gone. From all the photos you've taken, and the words you've written, I can tell he was incredibly special and lovely.
~x~

I'm so, so sorry.

Rest In Peace, Roy with the soulful eyes.

I'm sorry for your loss. I too have cats and love them dearly. I've lost a few to old age over the years and it's so hard.

I am so sorry. Roy will be missed by us all.

I want to hug you, I want to hug Roy, I want to hug Bob , Soba and Frankie. I want to go home and hug my cats. I'm like you, I go to the animal shelter and ask, `who has been here the longest, who needs a home the most?´ Roy has his peace and you have the memories and know he loved you.

So sorry for your loss. I appreciate you sharing his story.

Now there´s a break in my work and I´m able to continue writing without crying for your baby Roy- it´s two weeks now my old grandseigneur des chats, "Sir" Henry, lost his fight against chronical kidney disease. He was the one who led all the others to the front door when I came home every day, and was the first every morning to remind me of filling the cat bowls. And even if my pack of red tigers, including Henry´s sister Emily, is still there to fill my heart with thankfulness, there is a hole in my life, a damned, Henry-shaped hole. Be sure there are thousands of people sharing your sadness, and be kind with yourself, you´ll need it.

I am so sorry to hear of Roy's passing. ((hugs))
Mo

(((((hugs))))

Roy, we love you.

Oh NO! Never saw it coming! Burst into tears to the surprise and horror (and finally mild amusement) of the DH. He's not a cat person, what can I say.

Hail and Farewell, sweet Roy. We all loved you.

I still think you shoulda been on the front of the book.

Huge hugs and damp kisses to you, Laurie. So hard to let them go.

Laurie,
A beautiful tribute, and fitting passing for our dear friend, Roy. He was truly royalty,in all his lynx point siamese loveliness, and even if he had been misplaced and mistreated for awhile, he came back in grand style to live the ultimate life as one of your furry friends. He will be greatly missed and I send you love, thanks for being Roy's loving friend and for making him part of our lives. You are amazing and may you find comfort in the fact that you were with Roy all the way.

Roy will be dearly missed, so sorry to hear of his passing.

Laurie, I don't know you, and I never knew Roy. But I've been reading your blog for a year or so now, and I feel like I know both of you. And I'm crying - like snorting and snuffling and blotchy faced crying. And I reallllllllly want to give you a hug, and let you know that my Champer and Dodger will give Roy a nice bath and show him where the best catnip grows when he arrives at the Great Catnip Fields.

I'm so sorry, Laurie!

I am so very, very sorry. I'm glad you two found each other.

what a wonderful life Roy had with you,
a big hug for your loss.

I'm crying with you, Laurie. Hug Soba for us.

Oh, no. I'm so sorry, Laurie. I know how much you loved him. But he knew how much you loved him too. You gave him a good life. Take comfort in that, even if it does hurt like hell right now. Hugs.

I don't even like cats all that much, and there's no way you're going to wade through 1100+ comments, but I had to express my sincere sympathy on losing the love of your life.
"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." ~ Dr. Seuss

Oh, Laurie. Oh, Roy. There's nothing to say...so I'll just send good thoughts and plenty of hugs your way.

Those beautiful blue eyes...

I'm so sorry, Laurie.

I'm crying and I don't even have pets. I'm so sorry you lost Roy, but I'm so glad he came into your life in the first place. And thanks for sharing such a great story.

Dear Laurie,
I read your post yesterday, cried, left a condolence, and then spent the rest of the day grieving... Just couldn't get you & Roy off my mind. I guess you must know how much you touch people's lives when you see the volume of comments left here. I hope that this outpouring of support helps in a small way. XOXOX

Big Hugs.
It's so great you were there for each other through it all.
He was a lucky kitty cat and you were his lucky human.
:)

Hugs from my daughter and I. You are in our hearts.

Type in "animal communicator" to Google. People like Carol Gurney, Penelope Smith, Anita Curtis, and many others are real, and you are one of them. It's not really a special skill, though; it's just a matter of listening to the animals. It's pretty easy to learn how to communicate if you don't know how--there are classes you can take and books that show you how.

I am so very sorry for your loss. It is excruciating to lose a cat.

Oh Laurie I am so sorry to hear about Roy. :( Loosing someone you love is never easy.

So sorry to hear about Roy. He's up in kitty heaven, chasing things and snoring, I'm sure!

Be sure you give the other cats extra love. They will be missing him too.

I'm generally a lurker on your blog, reading nearly daily while I'm supposed to be working because it perks me up. I love your wry sense of humor, and your out looks on life. But this post really touched me, I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet, they are family. Its harder still when your there with them when they go. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts.

I'm very sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to a special part of your life.

Gosh, I feel like embracing the internet in a giant group hug right now. With Laurie right in the middle. A thousand people, sorry for your and your furbaby.

Again, so very sorry for your loss. I lost my old girl this January, not a kitty friend, but my German Shep. who I rescued out of the pound. I had four years with her, I hope those were the years she remembers best in heaven. My heart still hurts for her. And now for you, and Royboy.

I read this 3 times last night and I cried as if Roy was my own. I thought about Roy, You and your other kitties all night and woke up thinking about you all this morning. I decided to read the story of Roy again this morning and I saw the amazing number of comments everyone has left, knowing full well that at least that same amount of people wish you well and just didn't leave a comment.

I know you are in for a sad time as you adjust to the void that Roy will leave because he was so special. When you have a sad moment I hope it will help you to think about this...

Roy had a tough life before he met you. God only knows what he went through. You two were brought together and he learned to trust and love and he had a wonderful life. But there is even more...

When you began writing this blog, you brought all of us into your life as well as your cats lives. We are all now your friends and we care about all of you. Beacuse of your special writing skills and posting to the world you and your cats are celebrities to us. We (or at least I imagine others feel the way I do) follow your life on the blog as others follow movie and rock star lives in the magazines.

So what I am taking the long way to say is that - think of that poor beat up kitty you took home those many years ago. His life could have gone in a million directions, and look at the one he was lucky enough to get - Roy became an internet STAR! How great is that?

Thank you for sharing Roy with us.

Julie

Laurie,
I was introduced to your blog the day after my 19 year old cat Charlie died (Febuary 9, 2007). A colleague sent me your link and said you will love this girl and she loves cats too. I have checked in on you everyday since faithfully. I am not a knitter but I enjoy your writing very much. Today as I sit here in my office in Toronto I cry and think of you Bob and Charlie. Having a cat like Bob leaves a big hole. I know … My guy was always there for me since I was 16 he knew all my secrets and let me cry all over him through the years.
He was all love.
Thank you for sharing your life.

Bless Roy on his way to the Summerland.
And bless you for making his life so perfect finally.

Hi, Laurie, long-time lurker, first-time commenter.
I'm so sorry for your loss, I feel like I knew Roy myself through all your pictures and stories, and I'm sure I'm not the only one crying for him. It's wonderful that you took him in and made his life so great. It's amazing the love that develops between people and their cats. We'll miss you, Roy.

I am so sorry that Roy is gone. Thank you for sharing him and the rest of your wonderful brood of cats with us daily.

I'm so sad for you. I'll hug Milo, Purl and Spooky a little tighter tonight. I know that there's a big hole in your heart, Laurie.

Oh, Laurie honey ... you told Roy's story
so beautifully, as only "his person" could.
My heart breaks for you . . . may comfort
and peace surround you. Love, Maryanne

I know it doesn't really feel that way yet, but you have truly been blessed. I have had this same relationship with one dog in my life, and when he left I mourned him as if he were human - he was my best friend and I loved him dearly. It's been 3 years now and most days I can think of Joey and smile. Sometimes I still cry, but not as often anymore. My heart goes out to you, Crazy Aunt Purl, but I also rejoice for you that you had him - and he you. We'll hold both of you in our hearts.

even tho its a thousand comments back, i have to say how sorry i am about Roy. but at least you can say that you gave him the best you could and he did the same.

Goodbye Roy!

My hearts breaking for you and my tears for Roy won't stop. Hugs...

how beautiful....what a wonderful relationship. roy was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have roy. and you're right...he will be back in one form or another but i bet right now he loves you with all that he is.

So very, very sorry for your loss. That was a beautiful tribute to Roy, and as painful as it probably was to write it, I'm glad you shared it with us. I wish I knew the magic words to comfort someone who has lost the love of their life - but I don't. Just quietly crying with you and sending hugs your way.

Oh Laurie, I'm so sorry. I lost my Savannah last August. I used to sing to her, too (My Savannah to the tune of My Sharona - "Oh, my little pretty one, kitty one,when you gonna give me some time, Savannah!")
She came to live with me about a month after I left my Mr. X and we got through some tough times together.
~Sending my love to you and all your furry family ~ He's hanging at the Rainbow Bridge.~

Oh Laurie, I am so sorry to hear about Roy. My heart goes out to you and the other kitties. It is so hard when we lose those furry little members of our family. I feel your pain.

I read your blog for many reasons, but my 5 year old daughter absolutely LOVES your cats and asks to see them often. Roy was her favorite and I know she will be heartbroken too.

Big Hugs.

I'm so sorry to hear of Roy's death. Even when you can see it coming, it's hard, isn't it? He reminds me of a raggedy old alley cat I adopted about 15 years ago who turned out to be a wonderful, sweet guy. I used to tell friends that if Tom was a person I'd marry him. He helped me through a rough time in my life -- for that matter, he helped my other cats! He was a great, great cat. He was already quite old when I took him in, but we had five good years together. You have my very sincere condolences.

Laurie,

I'm most likely the 8 billionth comment by now, but know that we are all there with you. I'm so sorry for your loss.

When I was married (to my now ex #1), we also went to buy/adopt a cat, and came home with two, because that little grey and white thing would not leave the one we were looking at alone. They were snuggle buddies, play buddies, and I convinced the X that it was MY cat. She was small, had strange markings, and nobody wanted her. Pogo (the big tiger stripe) was easy to name. She hopped like a pogo stick on her back legs when playing with those plastic corkscrew looking cat toys. The baby, however, just...wasn't. "She's got brilliant green eyes, how about Jade?" Nope. We went thru them all. One day, it dawned on me. No other name would ever do, she WAS "baby cat". We called her 'Baba' occasionally, but until the day she died (much too young, of renal failure), she was always "Baby Cat". Much like Roy, she seemed to sense that it was ME that loved her enough to take her home. She slept on my corner of the bed, woke me up in the morning, and loved me like only a cat can. I didn't even like cats until the day I took her home.

Sorry to hi-jack your comments, but you really touched me today. Thank you.

P.S. I'm sure they have plenty of hidey holes for Roy where he is now.

What a lovely tribute. My heart goes out to you.

Now I'm crying into my bowl of Cocoa Crispies. I've been through this with a couple of cats, and a dog, and it is never ever easy. I'm so sorry, Roy was definitely one very special cat.

Oh Laurie :( I am so sorry for your loss, losing an animal that you are so close to feels like you have had a bit of your soul ripped out.

I had a wonderful cat, Bruce, who arrived at our doorstep knowing that we'd take care of him, all matted and abused with a kink in his spine. Like Roy, he told my Dad his name as they communed under a bush.
I had 7 years with him, us against the world. He had multiple heart attacks, needed pills every day, but he hung on for years until one day it was too much for him :( I still miss him.

Sometimes there are special animals who you are destined to meet, who guide you through the hardest of times. Even though they are gone, they never really leave you.
Take care of yourself and the other kitties

As a fellow cat lover, my heart goes out to you. I'm sorry for the loss of your beloved Roy. Take care.

So sorry for your loss. But so glad you were there for him and he didn't have to stay in that cage, or with people who didn't love him, or who would never have known his name. --take care of yourself. we'll be here...

((Hugs))
There's not much that can be said that hasn't been said a thousand times already, but I am sorry for your loss.

So sorry for your loss. I have to explain to the kids now why mommy is crying!

Laurie I am so very sorry to hear about Roy. It is so hard to lose our furry companions who give us so very much. I know he'll be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for you.

(((Laurie)))

Typing thru tears. You're a wonderful cat-mom.

Oh, Laurie, I am so sorry.

You gave Roy such a good life. A second chance filled with love, warmth, friendship and a family. My heart goes out to you. Peace and love to you and your furry family.

Also crying at work. I'm so sorry. If it helps, we all share in your loss. You were good enough to share Roy with us, and we'll all miss him.

You just gotta be coy, Roy
and set yourself free...

He's looking down on you from heaven and he's singing the loudest of them all for the happy life you so graciously gave him.

I'm crying at home for you and Roy. I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It sounds like Roy was a very special cat indeed.

Laurie, honey, I am SO sorry. I've been reading your blog for a long time, and it is so funny and heartfelt that it gave me comfort this past spring when my beloved abused-cat-turned-loving-kitty-companion Mona died; my prayers are with you.

Laurie, honey, I am SO sorry. I've been reading your blog for a long time, and it is so funny and heartfelt that it gave me comfort this past spring when my beloved abused-cat-turned-loving-kitty-companion Mona died; my prayers are with you.

I was home sick yesterday, and read your blog from the couch. I spent the rest of the day bawling at 10 minute stretches at a time, on and off. My heart was (and still is) just breaking for you right now. Roy was a WONDERFUL cat (but of course you don't need to be told that)....you gave him a lovely life and a family, unconditional love and friendship - you were BOTH the lucky ones in your relationship.

I don't know what I will do when it's time to let my fur-babies go. I hope that I can do it with the same wisdom, grace, and strength that you have. Thank you for sharing Roy's stories with us. Rock on with your bad old man self, Roy....

Laurie,
Like many others I am typing through tears. You captured the soul of human with pet experience; both the joy and the sorrow. We set up PETitionz.org at the first recall and I have heard more sad stories than I can take but yours---. We are about to do something for all the Roys. Please visit our site now and on August first. Wishing you well.

count me as another longtime lurker, and another touched soul who's crying for you and Roy, even though we've never met. My heart goes out to you. I loved your story- you are one hell of a writer!

Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss. I read this yesterday and cried at my desk and went home and hugged my old dog and it didn't seem to matter that he peed on the carpet that afternoon, the carpet can be replaced. Again I am sorry and I hope these 1,000+ comments help.

I echo the 1174 previous comments. I am so sorry.

It is so hard to lose a pet, but Roy's gift to the world is that his amazing story of a second chance at life with a kick-ass lady to call his own got over 1,000 of your fans to tear up and most likely at least 1,000 of our pets were given extra hugs and kisses yesterday. He has spread the love. He was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have him. Thinking of you!

I am SO sorry!

I am so saddened by this. I don't personally know you or Roy, but oh my. God has a special place for our babies Laurie!

Love and hugs to you.

Kay

{{{Big Hugs}}}

I am in tears reading your post....halfway through it I had a funny feeling something was wrong. This is my first time posting,but I read your blog religiously. I feel like I know your furry little friends and cannot imagine the loss you are going through. I will give my cat, Klanci, extra snuggles and scratches tonight thinking of Roy.

Give your other kitties some extra love and let them help you through this.

Best,
Karli

I've always been too shy to comment here before even though you have written so many other moving posts. But, like more than 1000 of your other readers I wanted to add my condolences. Rest in peace Roy. We'll be here for you, CAP.

Hugs to you, Roy was lucky to have a wonderful second life with you!

Glad I'm not at work at the moment as I'm in floods of tears thinking of Roy and my old moggies Kitty and Sootica. First thing I'll be doing when I finally manage to live in a non-rented house is to fill the place with cats :-)

What a wonderful cat. So sorry for your huge loss.

Hey Liz, I think our posts got mixed up somehow.... :)

I was home sick yesterday, and read your blog from the couch. I spent the rest of the day bawling at 10 minute stretches at a time, on and off. My heart was (and still is) just breaking for you right now. Roy was a WONDERFUL cat (but of course you don't need to be told that)....you gave him a lovely life and a family, unconditional love and friendship - you were BOTH the lucky ones in your relationship.

I don't know what I will do when it's time to let my fur-babies go. I hope that I can do it with the same wisdom, grace, and strength that you have. Thank you for sharing Roy's stories with us. Rock on with your bad old man self, Roy....

Thank you for sharing Roy with us.
You brought tears to my eyes several times, even before I realized this post was a eulogy.
I can't believe he won't be back in your life again... after all, he has nine lives, and you sure made one of them much brighter.

Laurie,

I am so, so sorry to hear about Roy. We all know how much you loved him and that you'll miss him like crazy. I have to say that I will miss him too, I'll miss seeing his sweet little face on your blog and hearing your storys of his escapades. Thank God for you that he came into your life, how honored you must feel to have known and loved him. I am sure that he came to you because he knew that you would be the perfect Mommy for him, some one to love him and cherish his every breath. I hope that Bob, Frankie and Sobakowa are all taking care of you, I'm sure they are.

Hugs to you from the Giannosa clan-me, Simmone, Gypsy, Buddha and Ti Gra, we'll be keeping you in our thoughts sweetie !!

I am so sorry you lost Roy. He sounds like he as the best kitty friend and it was lovely how much you were there for each other. Your post is a beautiful tribute.

I'm so sorry to hear about Roy. I almost started crying at work when I read the post. You will be in my thoughts.

Oh.....I am so sorry!!! I know people say they are just animals--but they are better than most people. I'm bawling......

What an amazing and wonderful life you and Roy shared. He knew how very special you were, that's why he shared his name with you when he knew he could trust you with it. You'll see him out of the corner of your eye, the other cats will see him when you can't, but most of all, he'll be in your heart always and his soul will journey with yours forever.

Many hugs & purrs,
Nora mom to Finny & Buddy

************
Fragile Circle

"We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own,
live within a fragile circle,
easily and often breached.
Unable to accept its awful gaps,
we still would live no other way.
We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,
never fully understanding the necessary plan."

Irving Townsend.

****

A site you may want to visit www.petloss.com

Oh, I am so, so sorry for your loss. My co-worker thinks I am crazy over here crying at work! You two had such a special bond, memories that will last a lifetime.

Oh Laurie! My heart breaks for you right now! Know that I am thinking of you during his difficult time.

Laurie, I'm so sorry for your loss.

I'm so sorry. Losing anyone is hard, but when they're that special to you, it feels like you'll never ever be the same again.

Maybe this is due to my own hopeful little brand of spiritualist crazy, but I loved to watch the Pet Psychic when Animal Planet used to run the show. And maybe she was her own brand of special in the head, but one thing she was adamant on was that they come back. I can't help but believe it. And really, after all the Old Man Cat went through and how happy he must have been with you, if they do come back, he's gonna come back to be with you. One time just isn't enough with the really special ones.

I am so sorry for you and your loss. I'll miss Roy's adventures and quests for bacon.

( hugs )

i'm so sorry.....
:(

Aw crap. Simon & Garfunkel just called and said I screwed up their lyrics. It was Lee who needed the key to set himself free. I stand corrected. But Roy can sing it however he wants :-)

::sniff:: Tissue please! I am so sorry for your loss. I, as I'm sure others do, know just how you feel. I lost my Danny Boy 3 years ago last month and he was my best friend. Never judging, always there for me and I miss him so much. We knew each other backwards and forwards. But, we will cherish the memories of our sweet boys that have gone on to the Bridge. I'll be thinking of you and am again so sorry for your loss. Rest in peace sweet Roy.

I'm blinking back tears and my eyes are seeing doubles on the keyboard. There is a special place for those prople who adopt and love those animals who are beaten, bruised, and tormented relics of the animal shelter world. I did community service at our local shelter for a year. It was a most depressing yet rewarding time. I saw a lot of dogs and cats that were considered unadoptible due to their age and appearance. I hope that you find another good animal who will love you.

So very sorry for your loss...

RIP Roy... and cross over the Rainbow Bridge. :)

Rest in peace precious old man. Courage, Laurie.

Oh, God. Now I'm crying at work. So so sorry.

Oh, big sad hugs for you! I'm sure my dear grandmother has room for him on her lap up in heaven.

Oh, my. I am so sorry for your loss. I recently lost my pretty kitty on my birthday (which is the day after yours!) and it's been really hard - I keep looking for her in all of her usual hiding places. But I will always have my fond memories of her and her goofiness, just as you will always remember Roy.

I am thinking about you and hope you are hanging in there.

So sorry..... I know he was well loved and returned the love in kind....

laurie, i am so sorry! reading that made me cry!

as the "mom" of three cats, one of which who sort of teeters between being great and being on his last legs, i can SO empathize. i am sending you all the love i have right now. i know that is no consolation as you will have a hole in your life and your heart for a while, but you are not alone in your loss!

much love!!!
lisa

That was the most beautiful tribute to a pet passing on that I've ever read. I think anyone who reads this knows how special he was. There are no words any of us can say to make this any easier - a big hug is going out to you.

I couldn't believe where this post went. Losing a well loved pet is so friggin' hard. It hurts in a place that seems impenetrable. I couldn't even comment yesterday it hit me so hard.

I don't know you really, and I don't know your handsome, beloved Roy. But I see there wasn't a dry eye in any cubicle across american whose resident dropped by, so innocently as it seems now, to visit our favorite blogger, CAP. We have all been deeply moved.

Keep well, Laurie. This fan north of Boston has you in her thoughts.

M

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know exactly how it feels to loose a cat. My kitty passed away Christmas Eve two years ag and it still hurts. she was also my source of comfort n tough times

So sorry to hear about Roy passing. He sounds like he was a really good friend.

My deepest condolences!!!

I am crying and even though it is hot here in Boston, I feel chilled. I loved Roy too! He will come back. Two and a half years ago, my Goo girl died. She had been living with my mother while I looked for an apartment. She passed away the day that she moved back in with me. Six months later, a six month old kitten wandered into my life-literally! Paws is as singularly devoted to me as Goo was.

oh, laurie, I am so sorry for you . Cats are better than most people, and in reading your posts, I fell in love with Roy and looked forward to every photo of him.
I started crying as soon as I saw your post title, and haven’t been able to stop hugging my 14yr old J-cats since.
Thank you for sharing his story with us, and how you saved each other. like the rest of the internet, I’ll never forget him, but will picture him finally young and healthy again eating bacon in kitty heaven.

Godspeed, Roy.

Love trisha, jenny, jezebel, and jasper

As I read I had this sinking feeling.... What a beautiful post for such a sad event. Can you believe how many people are commenting for your Roy? I can. He was a well-loved c