Boots, I want to remember here how you:

• walked to the garden on the hose so your feet wouldn't get wet.
  
• made a place for your butt in the grass by stamping/pawing with your rear feet.
  
• played with the long grass and went after it with both paws right up to my hand, if possible.
  
• hid under the tarp when I worked in the yard.
  
• supervised from the front porch any work going on in the yard; we called you "the foreman."
  
• lay relaxed with front "wrists" crossed.
  
• stuck out one front leg when I held you.
  
• lay on my chest sticking out that same paw, which often ended up in my mouth.
  
• snuggled with me in bed, in the crook of my arm.
  
• lay on my feet in bed.
  
• loved to be combed, every inch of you, even your tummy and armpits, and would stretch yourself out long so that every part could be groomed.
  
• came when I called, or when you heard the door open.
  
• were always there when I came home, except for the last time.
  
• waited for me at the edge of the yard at night and I could see your white face and bib in the dark, you shone like a light.

You're the only one of my cats who chose me, and I will never forget you.

In Loving Memory of Boots
who passed away on August 15, 2000

Copyright © Marcia Marvin
October 3, 2000

Read Marcia's story: How Boots and I found each other