She lived in the field surrounding our neighborhood in Mississippi when we moved there in 2006. All the homes were brand new, and as each family moved in, we collectively became a larger family, making memories often on the driveways after work accompanied by wine and laughter.
Almost immediately word got out that a community of cats lived nearby, as they approached each homeowner for handouts. Of course I was a sucker for anyone homeless, and left out kibble and fresh water for the needy. And, of course, that brought in the gang of raccoons, but that's another story.
I'd moved to Southaven with nine cats from Kentucky. There had been a barn on the corner where too many unwanted cats congregated, and I adopted those who found me, among them Herman.
Herman: Happy Umbrella Day, Dori!
Dori: I'm not feeling so happy. Purrsonally, umbwellas scare me. One minute they're narrow and behaving themselves... The next, they fling open their moufs and puff up like a Persian having a hissy fit.
Herman: Our meowmy always says in order to get over our fears, we first must understand what we fear.
Dori: I'm okay not getting over my fear.
Herman: Hey Dori. Remempurr the time when Daddy spent his Memorial Day weekend on his knees?
Dori: Begging Meowmy for forgiveness?
