Sunday, March 23, 2014

Where There's a Will There's a Way




Ruth with a favorite treat
My  mother's first cousin, Ruth, has posted three stories on this blog.  They are stories about my grandparents' lives when they immigrated from Sweden.  I will always treasure these stories and am so grateful she was willing to share with us. 

It has been a difficult year for Ruth.  Her husband, Joe, died on November 1, 2013.  He was buried at the Keokuk, Iowa National Cemetery on November 3, 2013.  This would have been their 65th wedding anniversary.  There are many stories about Ruth and Joe, but I will let her share them when she chooses.  This winter the Polar Vortex did not spare Keokuk from the icy, cold and snowy weather.  Ruth was not able to visit Joe's gravesite until last week when spring made travel possible.

Keokuk, Iowa National Cemetery (a small part)

It would have been a painfully lonely and sad winter if Ruth had not gained a friend.  Ruth's son, Mark and daughter-in-law, Marie, suggested that Ruth get a kitty.  Ruth named this kitty, Willie...as in "where there is a will there is a way."  She was going to 'will' herself to get through her grief...no matter how difficult. 
A Purrrrrrfect Fit

I am going to use Ruth's own words to introduce us to Willie.  It is another example at how a pet can be that needed link of love to help us through hard times.


"I would like you to meet Willie.  He is such a loving kitty.  He makes up with every one.  He is on his condo he got for Christmas from Mark and Marie.  He has a lot of toys but one special toy we play fetch with.  The first time I threw it across the living room, he brought it back to me and we have been playing fetch several times a day ever since.
Just hanging out
  It's really good exercise for both of us, especially for me when it goes under the davenport or other pieces of furniture.  I have to get the flashlight and get down on my hands a knees and look for it.  Then I have to use a yard stick to fish it out.  

Now I say "a" special toy.  He has misplaced several and I just purchased three more packages (3/pkg.) that may last for a while.  He likes to hide them. 

Did you call me?

Most everyone has never heard of a cat playing fetch.  He is a sweetie and so much company for me to help me get through some rough days yet.  I miss Joe so very much.  Having Willie helps me through those rough days.  I didn't realize how much company and companionship they bring to those who have lost a loved one.
 "

My favorite footstool to watch my cartoons
Using her IPad, Ruth took pictures and sent them to me.  I like her captions...she is quite a witty woman.  Thanks, Ruth, for letting me share Willie on our blog.  He is a special kitty.  I am so glad he has come into your life.

Save some for me

8 comments:

  1. Aw. Pets are so special. I didn't realize how much I missed having a cat until we got Sam back from my ex. He is getting up there in years and we will love him so, I dread thinking about the day we have to live without him. I am sure you are painfully aware right now. Thanks for sharing about Willie in your aunt's life.

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  2. I am so glad that Ruth and Willie found each other. Tell her I also had a cat that liked to play "fetch" May they have many happy years together. The pictures are precious and I love the captions.

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  3. Pets are such a comfort and such good nourishment for the soul. The photos are precious, as well as the captions. I love that Ruth used the word: davenport. It reminded me of my grandma, who might be having lunch with Joe right now.

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  4. What a sweet post! I love that your blog weaves together so many voices of your family. This post, bringing together the words and pictures of your cousin, is such a beautiful way not only for you to connect and reflect on the importance of your family's stories, but as readers, it is also a poignant reminder for us to treasure the voices and stories in our own families. Thank you!

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  5. What strong family ties you have! How great that Ruth has Willie for a companion. He is a delightful looking cat with a lot of charisma. Ruth sounds like she has a lot of life in her too. May they take care of each other for many years.

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  6. This is a fabulous family blog. I would have never thought to do such a thing. And so glad Ruth and Willie have found one another! Looks like they became fast friends!

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  7. Thanks to you and Ruth for sharing this story. May Ruth get through this tough year with a few smiles from her new friend!

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  8. I think it's so nice that you share this blog with your family members. Losing a loved one is so very difficult and having a pet to help Ruth was a great idea. This is the first time I've heard of a cat playing fetch. I hope Willie and Ruth get to spend many years together. :)

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