We lost our Bob today.

He was a good cat and lived to be at least 17. For the majority of his life was a feral barn cat. He roamed all over this hill and probably knew the other animals here quite well. He was a fierce mouser and scrapped for everything he got most of his life.

When we bought the house, he came with it and after a few cold winters he joined our family to live inside. He loved to sleep during the day in one of his beds and would enjoy fresh meals and water every day. He would also spend his days patrolling the area and spending time sunning himself on his rock. We’ve decided to name that rock in his honor, so from this day forth it’s “Bob’s Rock.”

A secret perhaps the world doesn’t know is that his name is actually Niles, but he lost most of his tail and from then until now he’s been “Bob.”

He and I would compete for my wife’s attention at night as the three of us sit and watched television together. Ultimately we’d end up sharing the attention and were none worse for it.

I’m a crank 90% of the time but I always tried to be kind to old Bob. I figure he earned his spot a few times over and simply didn’t need the hassle. Even at his old age he loved us all. He would search us out individually for attention…or perhaps he was giving the attention to us, funny how that works. He loved Jean most of all (who doesn’t). Thank you so much Bob for being a great friend. I’m sorry.

I’m just sad right now that he’s gone.

That’s all.