Wrapping things up in a big white ribbon.

"It's getting awfully weird around here."

                                                 "I just know something's up."

I have now officially closed my cat-sitting service. I do have one of my regulars to care for next week and then I will return all the remaining keys. Every day I am saying "good-bye" to the cats who I have cared for over the years; some over fifteen years. I feel like I am wrapping up the most beautiful gift that was ever given me with a big white ribbon and storing it away. Even as I type this I have a knot in my chest. It's been the hardest job to ever leave. I will have such wonderful memories of my little charges; all those fabulous felines, their beautiful faces, enchanting personalities and their silly, quirky ways, to console me for a very long time. I do not remember ever crying when I left any work in the past. Ever! As one of my readers mentioned, he remembers crying going to work but never leaving. haha!
I have received so many beautiful e-mails and cards from my clients. They will always be displayed for me to cherish and remember all the very special cats that I was privileged to care for. One of my clients popped by today and we both fought back the tears. Over fifteen years I have cared for her cats. Some have passed on and some remain; now very pampered senior cats. I have been invited to visit anytime..."You must", she said. And I will.

One of my clients, Donna (a mixed-media artist), who is owned by the trio, Otis, Rosie and Lola gifted me with a beautiful print of an abstract painting she did of her three fabulous felines.

"Thank you Donna so much. This will be one of those 'special things' I will definitely hang in the coach-house.

Today is a busy day of appointments and cooking. I think it best to cook ahead now as we never know when we will be called out to the property. The floor will be poured next in the garage and then the doors can go on. I'm looking forward to seeing that. We met with the electrician yesterday and the plumber will be out in a few days.
Did I ever mention we have a vintage out-house on our lot? One of my readers, Judy at Cranberry Morning, http://cranberrymorning.blogspot.ca/ posted an out-house on her blog today which reminded me that I should show you our beaut. It's about 150 years old and could use some TLC. Well, at least a wreath.
Next time...

Btw - the chickadees are having a great old time at the feeders and the blue-jays and finches are spotted now. Audrey should do just fine here.

Stay toasty, Deb