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Tuesday, November 4, 2014

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

18 comments:

  1. On to a new chapter in your life but I know leaving this one is hard! Big Hugs!

    Linda

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  2. You are very welcome Deb! We miss you already!!! xo

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  3. Oh, this must be hard...and for your clients too. I am sure you will miss it, but are excited for new adventures ahead! Thanks so much for stopping by my blog and for your kind comment!

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  4. Ah! Bless! Well at least you'll still be surrounded
    by cats Deb! There's usually one on every corner!
    And, let's not forget your already living with the Queen
    of Canada....Audrey!x
    Look at her...butter would'nt melt!

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  5. Dear Deb,

    I can't understand why you quit your cat-sitting-"job" when your new home seems (for me) to be near enough to be on the property every day?
    Please excuse if this question is far too private - but I feel with the left cats, who love you so very much.

    greetings from a rainy Germany
    Bärbel

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  6. Parting is such sweet sorrow. Memories fill you heart and life goes on.

    Enjoy this next part of your journey.

    Love and hugs ~ FlowerLady

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  7. Indeed what big changes they are! It must have been so very hard saying goodbye, but what wonderful experiences they have been! Blessings for a beautiful week ahead Deb!

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  8. Yes a new exciting chapter in your life I can understand how hard it must be to leave but you and those client kitties will always remember each other . Sounds like the new place is coming along well . Thanks for sharing , Have a good day !

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  9. The painting is perfect! How thoughtful....they luv 'ya Deb!
    Where did you get that double feeder?
    It looks like the squirrels would have a hard time getting In there...
    So glad the Jays have arrived....such a beautiful bird!
    Audrey will be able to continue her bird watching....
    Will you be in for Christmas?
    How far from your current house....just nosey! Hahaha!
    Enjoy your week....
    Crummy here. :o(
    Cheers!
    Linda :o)

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    1. I bought it at the Pet Valu pet store. I have not seen a squirrel even try to get into it but then again I am not on the lot much. The chickadees are coming in groves. Yes, we'll be in before Christmas for sure. It's about 50 minutes from here. Your enjoy your week, too, Linda.

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    2. Thanks for the info on the feeder....
      Might just help with my "Red" dilemma!
      So, you are pretty close....excellent!
      Come on over for a visit!

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  10. Can only imagine how hard it is to leave something you love. But really, you aren't leaving as much as stepping back for a time. The return of the keys will feel like an end, but your energy and the love for the cats will remain. You inspire me to want to learn how to start my own cat-care business.

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  11. I can only imagine how hard leaving that just must be...it was a perfect fit for you! How wonderful that you have happy memories and invitations to visit. I love the painting...such a thoughtful gift!

    Your little house is coming along....so exciting!

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  12. It must be so awfully hard, Deb. You must be much loved to get paintings from your clients! A wonderful keepsake.

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  13. Wonderful photo of Audrey and beautiful painting of the three cats. You will have many memories of your cat care business and I really think over time, you will recreate it in some form. I'm so impressed that you will be in the carriage house by Christmas. Wishing you much happiness!

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  14. Must be hard to leave your cats. Sounds like you were a beloved caregiver. Best wishes for your new home.
    Thanks for stopping by my blog, too.

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  15. You bring a tear to my eyes. You are a very special person. I know your client hate to lose you.

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