I had to euthanize my Gabby just after midnight. He was

just diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy five weeks ago. As described in the literature on cats with congestive heart failure, a blood clod formed and paralyzed his back legs. He was very frightened and crying out. I rushed him to the emergency vet. He sounded like he was drowning while struggling to breathe. They said he was in the last stage of heart failure. I stayed with him as he went to his rest. We estimated he was 14 or 15. He was one of 4 stray Tom cats that showed up, one year apart, at my house in Fayetteville and stayed. I am down to the last one who was Gabby's BFF. I don't know what he will do without his snuggle buddy.

Somewhere in the photos in this group is a photo of my 4 semi-feral guys from back in 2010 or 2011. Happier times.

Well, I did get the championship ribbon at the Illinois State Fair.

Want to see my 2021 fair cake entry?

There was no fair last year due to Covid. Then I moved from Arkansas to Illinois in October and discovered the county fair here is only for 4H and FFA. So, decided I'd try my hand at the state fair. It's held about 60 miles from here, but my son will drive me and this guy down tomorrow.

My two black cats, sleeping and holding paws.