The nicest cat you never saw

She was another of the many that wandered out of the woods and into our lives - this one a dozen years or so ago.  For many days we knew she was out there as she'd sing from the fringes.  We'd call back and be rewarded with a quick and enthusiastic response.  Then one morning the calls came from the red maple next to the deck.  From there the path was straight and quick - from a high branch, across my back (with claws fully extended for maximum traction), down the ladder steps and straight into our family. Although she was wishfully dubbed "Little Outside Cat", when we discovered that she was "with kitten", she moved inside and became Lily in honor of Harry Potter's mother.

For a dozen years she slept on the pillow over Sharon's head or slumped against my chest.  Each evening she would race down the hallway at bedtime, to ensure that she got a prime spot and plenty of attention.  She was pretty, clean, and polite.  But when visitors came a calling, she would quickly disappear - always a challenge when folks would house-sit.  They never knew if things were OK in Lily's world or not.

The end came quickly for Lily.  A routine annual exam begat a tooth extraction which revealed a more ominous problem.  So now she has crossed the rainbow bridge, where all good cats grow opposable thumbs and have unfettered access to tuna and can openers.  And there to greet her were Arthur, Marmalade, Pumpkin, Mother Kitty, Jack, and all other good pets that have gone before.  And Woody is keeping a friendly, yet respectable distance.  Thanks Lily - you were a joy.