Words of wisdom from the blogosphere

I'm glad you "publicized" the results of Mr. Boots's test. If there were any doubts left in anyone's mind (and there probably weren't but you never know), everyone now knows that you did what was best for him, without question. And sometimes it helps other people to make difficult decisions like that, knowing that they aren't the only ones to face it. Tragedies like what you just went through bring people together in a way that no other experience can. People do move on but they all learned or grew or whatever you want to call it, and the bond they shared with you will never diminish. It's human nature to be consumed by one's own life, but Mr. Boots pulled us all away from ourselves and showed us one of the important things in life - caring about others, whether human or critter. That's a good thing, and something we all need to be reminded of. I think it took great courage to put yourself and your fears and tears out there, but the troops rallied and, although the ending was ultimately a sad one, much was accomplished. It's rare to see such tremendous support offered, and we all benefited from our brief exposure to Mr. Boots and his trials.…

It wasn't the glass

We all had been concerned that Mr Boots had gotten into a piece of glass in the whole fracaso of Susie's getting into the glass cabinet. But, no, it was cancer. Phyllis wrote today:

Mr. Boots had squamous (sp) cell carcinoma, stage 4, very aggressive. Dan didn't get report back until Friday. I debated about putting this out but decided you folks would want to know.

Lee said: Thank you, Phyllis, for sharing this sad and hard news. I hope that it helps you know you did the very best you could and made the right decision. That Susie busted into all the glass confused things and paradoxically perhaps brought Mr Boot's distress to your attention.

Mr Boots will live on in print!

Barb B wrote this afternoon:

Hark!

You may cheer at any appropriate moment!

I got a letter today from Presbyterians Today. They want to publish Mr. Boots! I need to update my article to include Mr. Boots' death. (We're famous. They'd heard about it.) And I need some pics.

Could someone repost the URL for the Mr. Boots Blog? All the good pics are there.

Thanks, and Wahoo!

So this blogger reposted the URL, but some good TCPers sent Barb the relevant posts. Barb has written a story of this whole saga, 'The Salvation of Mr Boots.' When it appears in print, we will post it here.

from Phyllis to everyone

Dear friends,

What a sense of community we have here. I am so grateful for it. From the beginning of the saga, so many folks wanted to help and in many ways did help. I won't even attempt to list everyone involved because I am sure I would leave someone out. Besides, I have no idea who sent money for the fund. But I do appreciate and love you all.

I do want to thank the folks who worked on the blog. I got that printed out and have a memory I can read when tears aren't quite so close to the surface.

Changing the subject a bit, Ron from the humane society came today and got my check for the cremation. He also took all of Mr. Boots things to use at the humane society or put in their resale shop. Tomorrow he will bring the ashes back to me. I ordered a cute urn that has kitties all over it that I found online. I hope it is as cute when I lay my eyes on it.

After paying for the cremation, I had $125 left here that people have sent me. I went in to settle up with Dan. He charged me $118 and did not give me an itemized bill. Either he was shook up or he chose not to charge for the lab, surgery, and feeding tube. I feel I need to get that clarified which I will do when he calls me with lab results.

He showed me the stack of cards he has received and shook his head in amazement. It is beyond his comprehension that he is getting cards from all over the country regarding a cat these people have never met. He kept saying over and over "I wish it could have been different". Well, so do I.

Phyllis

Words of Wisdom

Cliff wrote words that speak to all of us who knew Mr Boots and who have been touched by the life of a cat.

I think a loving community of believers is oh so important. I think Mr Boots was a gift from Wiley to all of us in TCP and quite possibly people we don't even know. The story of Mr Boots will appear in our monthly newsletter, The Hearth, in February. Just where the influence Wiley had on us will end is somewhere the other side of eternity. All that we have is a gift from God. I look at my surroundings and am so grateful for the stewardship God has given me over these gifts. I don't own them and they are not mine to keep. Death on this planet frequently increases this loving community and that is as it should be. Yes it is painful but there is great peace at the bridge. I'm sure Wiley is grateful to have Mr Boots back in her lap. Mr Boots job is done and he has gone home. I'm also sure that Wiley has no choice but to share her gifts with all the other critters that God has sent us. Sir Toby will wait for me and is in good care.

I get very quiet when I have to return a gift from God but I understand the reasons why it has to be that way.

Cliff

Another letter to Dr Dan

Dear Dr. Dan,

I am sitting at my computer feeling sad that Mr. Boots has left us, yet I can't help feeling that I have been part of something holy. From the moment that we of The Cats Pajamas learned that Mr. Boots was going to be put down following the death of his "mom" Wylie Smith, our group went into action to rescue him. From Betty's and Phyllis's long drives to bring him to Phyllis's home, to Phyllis's love and care for him, to the money and prayers and encouragement that the rest of us gave, to your extraordinary care of Mr. Boots, it has been quite an emotional ride, one mostly of love and hope. Now we are picturing Wylie greeting her beloved Mr. Boots at the Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you, Dr. Dan, for going above and beyond your call to try and save Mr. Boots and for then gently helping him home. You have been a blessing to Mr. Boots and to all of us who have loved him.

Sincerely,
Val

Mr Boots 3/1/90-2/10/07

Phyllis wrote at 5.03 EST:

When Dan saw him this afternoon, he couldn't believe how much further he had gone down since yesterday. Kathy came over before we took him to Dan and she said he was actually in the process of dying so we just helped the process along.

I like to think there is a reunion happening between Wylie and Mr. Boots. What a wonderful kitty he was. I feel privileged to have been with him for this short period of time. He gave me so much love and I tried to give it back to him.

+

Phyllis gave him tons of love.

May Mr Boots rest in peace and rise in glory.
May his reunion with Wylie be fabulous.

May the two of them know that we all did our best and that Phyllis is a living angel.

The blogger here can't post much. It's too hard to see through tears.

The news continues to be hard

Dear Friends,

Mr. Boots drank a little water this morning but he is very weak. He stumbles and falls when he walks. I let him out of the bathroom every few hours to get some exercise, and he is weaker each time. Also he has massive diarrhea from the Ensure which Dan said would happen.

I'm thinking that it doesn't make sense to prolong this until Wednesday when we get the lab report. He is still fighting for life
but he is slowly losing the battle. He may not make it until Wednesday.

I have to play a concert at one, but I will take him back to Dan after that if it is ok with everyone. Dan has volunteer fire
training this morning.

Phyllis

Somehow this earlier note didn't come through:

Dan feels it needs to be two ounces 4 times a day. Except for Kathy my friends don't tend to be cat people. One has already said I am crazy to put myself through this and I should put him down now. I told her a whole group of people are involved - not just me. I couldn't put him down not knowing for sure. I need that answer first.

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What is there to say other than God be with Mr Boots and Phyllis and Dan.

Early afternoon

There are a lot of TCP people out there with blurry computer screens and tears on their faces. Yet everyone supports Phyllis in whatever decisions she and Dr Dan will make on Mr Boots' behalf.

Just a sampling:

Lee wrote right after PD posted: May God hold you all, Mr Boots, Dr Dan, and you as you walk this uncertain path. You are with him and only you really can know. We are just on the periphery, watching.

Prayers are certainly with you and MB. I trust God will let you know if it's time to let MB go to the bridge. I'm with you whatever course this all takes. Phyllis, we love you for all you have done and are doing. We weep with you. It is time and we all do understand. Mr. Boots is ready to go to Wylie who awaits him. I'm crying my eyes out but know this is right. You gave him happiness for his last days and thank you ever so much for all you have done.
PJ water flowing down face

And Debbie writes: Phyllis, I know that both God and Wylie are with you as you make decisions for Mr. Boots. You know
we all on TCP want what is best for Mr. Boots, and if it is a trip to the bridge, then may he go peacefully, and may you realize the love surrounding you as you help him.

Dennis says: Whatever happens, he is worth every hour expended on him and every dollar as well. We would do it all over again in a heartbeat. And I know you will do whatever you can even if the worst is true. God's blessing on you and Mr. Boots.

Kim writes: It does sound like Mr. Boots is on the edge of the bridge. I remember well how Sarit got to that point.

I too trust you to do what is right. I am appreciative of all the love and attention you've given him. I know its heartbreaking to see him at this point. My prayers and love are with you as you make decisions and love him.

Caroline and the gingerbread cats try to support Phyllis:

We all love you for the special care and affection you have and are showing, and I think I speak for everyone in saying that whatever decisions you make WILL be the right ones for Mr. Boots. Everything you have done so far is wonderful and right. Painful as it may be, if it is time for Mr. Boots to cross the bridge, Wylie will be waiting there for him.

Remember that you have nothing but our love, prayers and admiration. Pet him for all of us, and take care of yourself as well.

Peter adds: Purrayers arise for you and Mr. Boots, as well as Dan. It really sounds like Mr. Boots is suffering, and as Lee said, you are the only ones who are there to make the judgment about likelihood of recovery.

Even if the lab tests indicate something that can be fixed, will Mr. Boots be able to withstand the required treatment by that time? If not, then ending his suffering seems a humane course.

Please know that we are with you as you make the difficult decisions.

And Lois says: You are — we are not, except in spirit. (Damn, it's hard to type while weeping!). You know, my dear, just how much Mr. Boots is suffering. You — with the consultation that I know you'll make with Dr. Dan — need to make the decision. WE SUPPORT YOU no matter what and when!

You have fulfilled the purpose for which we all prayed and you and Nancy and Betty — to let Mr. Boots know that he has continued to be loved just as he was when Wylie was loving him and able to care for him.

And you have fulfilled this purpose in spades! Well done, good and faithful servant!

Poor Mr. Boots. Sounds like he'll soon be reunited with Wylie at the bridge and they can cross the bridge together.

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If you weren't in tears when you started reading this note, surely by now you are. At least this poster is.

Lots of conversation about Mr B

The TCP crowd has written a lot about Mr Boots and thanks to Pam, we have the round-up of the notes that were sent today. There are lots of prayers and thoughts winging toward Mr Boots and Phyllis, and we hope they can feel them.

From Dennis: Whatever happens, he is worth every hour expended on him and every dollar as well. We would do it all over again in a heartbeat. And I know you will do whatever you can even if the worst is true. God's blessing on you and Mr. Boots. There was a chorus of Amens to that sentiment.

From Betty: Phyllis, I'm so sad to read your news. And I'm mad that cancer is involved. I hate that word and what it does to living beings. I keep thinking about Wylie and how devastating this would have been for her. I'm so glad you are willing to care for Mr. Boots at this time. I wish I lived closer to help. Mr. Boots has come to mean so much to all of us. I agree with others that it's worth the cost both monetary and emotionally. Heartfelt prayers for both of you.

From Val: Let's keep hoping. He wasn't having trouble with his mouth before the glass episode, so that still could be it. Thank you for all you are doing. I wish I could be there also. Avatar agreed that so long as there is hope, let's not give up until Mr. Boots does.

From Lois: Oh, Phyllis! I'm praying very hard that Dan is wrong ... Tabitha had a tumor in her mouth, too, and I finally had to give up and help her to the bridge. You may remember that. But I could force feed her without a tube, until the end when I gave up because it bothered her so! I also hate to think of keeping him caged for his last days ... oh shit I hate this! Please know that all our prayers are with you and Mr. Boots!!! Lois also hopes that Mr. Boots can be let out of his cage after a day or two.

From Caroline: I'm concerned for you, Phyllis, and I think we all are for several reasons. I know you are deeply attached to Mr. Boots and love him as you do the other 3 cats. What makes this even harder for you is that you are doing this for the sake of Wylie whose memory we all cherish and because we are all attached to Mr. Boots and are invested in his welfare. He has become everybody's cat on TCP. I'm worried that if something happens soon to Mr. Boots or if you feel that he needs to cross the bridge, that you will feel that you have let Wylie and all of us down, and that is simply not the case! We all love you for the special care and affection you have and are showing, and I think I speak for everyone in saying that whatever decisions you make WILL be the right ones for Mr. Boots. Everything you have done so far is wonderful and right. Painful as it may be, if it is time for Mr. Boots to cross the bridge, Wylie will be waiting there for him. Remember that you have nothing but our love, prayers and admiration. Pet him for all of us, and take care of yourself as well. Caroline and the gingerbread cats

From Barb: What she said. Any decision you make will be the right one. I'm backing you 100 percent of the way. Let us all know if you need more money.

Mr. Boots Update (Early Friday Morning)
I have spent much of the night holding him. He seems relaxed in my arms. When I got home from rehearsal he had managed to remove the outer layer of tape that protects the feeding tube. It was just dangling. Apparently it is crimped below where I can see it because I couldn't get anything down the tube. So I was unable to feed him. I sense a change in him. This last go around may have been just too much for him.

Caroline: Mr. Boots certainly knows that he is well loved!

Mr. Boots Update (Late Friday morning)
I just got back from visiting Dan. He got the line straightened out and retaped. He was amazed that Mr. Boots had been able to remove it. The only thing we could figure is that he is wiping his mouth with paw frequently and he may have somehow caught a paw in the tape. He again cut his claws and used a different kind of tape.

Meanwhile MB made his usual room to room inspection of the house and stood over his water bowl for a considerable amount of time before he settled in for his morning nap. I have him in my bathroom rather than the cage while I try to get a few things done. Also I have another rehearsal at 10:30. If he lets loose with diarrhea, I'll just have to clean it up. It's a small bathroom, but he has more room than the cage and it seems to be the warmest room in the house. His mouth is still oozing also, but that is pretty easy to clean up.

Since I am going on approximately 0 sleep this will probably be another less than stellar rehearsal. I must have dozed at some point while I was holding him, but that is not good sleep. Gotta run. Phyllis

From Debbie: Phyllis, my screen is blurry when I think of what you and MB are going through. I know how hard it is to have a sick cat, but when I think of the love and compassion MB is getting now instead of hit and miss feedings in a lonely house, I am grateful you have done this for us on TCP.

From Lois: I have the feeling that Mr. Boots will know when it's his time, and none of us begrudge him any of the efforts on his behalf!

Our concern is for you, too, Phyllis. Take care of yourself!

From Val: I think that whatever has been done for Mr. Boots so far has been the right thing, and we have all been a part of it in one way or another. It will soon be apparent whether Mr. Boots will pull through or go to be with Wylie. Either way, we have given what we can, and you, Phyllis, are giving your all for the poor little guy. Please try to get help where you need it, and don't wear yourself out!

Lee's sister commented that 'even if spending their last moments in the ICU or confined these cats know their people are doing their best for them. Ajax Sr. spent his final week in the ICU (kidney failure) and when I would visit he would put his arms around my neck and lick my turtleneck 'til the end.'

Phyllis found those words comforting: Thanks Lee. I needed that!! I am having a very hard time holding back my tears today. I feel like I am totally out of control. Mr. Boots purred when I zoom groomed him today - his very soft purr that says " oh, thank you, that feels so good".

There were many expressions of love and support for Phyllis and Mr. Boots. They both continue to be in our prayers.

Sad news about Mr Boots

Phyllis wrote in this evening with this difficult news to absorb:

Dan thinks the problem with MB is a very aggressive form of cancer of 
the mouth.  We will not know for sure until lab results .  He doesn't 
want to put him down until he knows the answer.  He called the lab to 
see if he could get results expedited.  They told him it will be 
Tuesday at the earliest and more likely Wednesday since they have a 
tremendous backlog.

So I will feed him through the tube until we know.  He also 
recommended keeping him caged because he will have diarrhea 
from  feeding and he will continue the drooling from his 
mouth.  Right now that is bloody because of taking the sample.  I 
guess I won't get to sleep with him again.

I hate the thought of him spending his final days caged.  I hate all 
of this!!!!!    He is such a special cat.  I am just sick about it 
all.  I knew he didn't have much life left, but I never imagined it 
would be like this.

+

Words really aren't sufficient at this moment but we rally around Phyllis, who is at the center of this storm, and pray that she knows she is doing the best she can for a kitty who is loved by many people.

If there were a way to hug Phyllis and Mr Boots and lay hands on them, we would all do it. For now, we do it virtually (+).

Prayers for Mr Boots

Phyllis wanted to know what we all thought about her taking Mr B to Dr Dan, and having Dr Dan explore what is going on.

The TCP crowd (plus Jan) is unanimous in telling her to go for it.

Some of the notes that have come in are so eloquent and express well what we humans and cats are thinking, such as this one from Pele:

Mr. Boots,

Hang in there, fella. Me an' Tiki an' Maui have put our little paws together in prayer to the Creator One on your behalf.

It's no fun when you can't eat. I been there. Mom worried and worried and I couldn't tell her what was wrong. I think if anybody can help you, it will be your OFV. So don't be afraid to go to him. And then when you come home, you just plant yourself in Auntie Phyllis' lap and purr and purr. It will make both you and her feel better.

Love,

Pele

The news isn’t good. This came from Phyllis today.

Dear friends,

I am very worried about Mr. Boots. He ate
some tuna yesterday morning for Dan, but he hasn't eaten anything since he got home. He has drunk just a little water. The swelling in his tongue is down but he is holding it to side for some reason. Dan force fed him a little while ago. If he doesn't start eating, I have a real problem on my hands here.

This morning I set him up with three dishes - one with tuna, one with yogurt, and one with canned XD which he was eating well before all this happened. He moved the tuna around a bit in the bowl but I doubt if he actually swallowed anything. He didn't touch either of the
other bowls. He acts like he is thirsty but just sits in front of the bowl. He acts like he is hungry but just sits in front of the bowl.

This is very upsetting.

Later this evening…

Dan called a few minutes ago to see how Mr. Boots is doing. I told him that I still see a will to live. When it was supper time at our house where all the kitties get a dollop of canned food, he was right there with the other three wanting his bowl. Problem is that he couldn't
eat it. He wants to eat and he wants to drink. Something is stopping him.

So tomorrow Dan is going to tranquilize him and check as far down as he can to see if he can find any other thing that is causing this. Then he is going to insert a stomach tube so he can be fed regularly and get nutrition until this mystery unravels itself. He is wondering if the trauma of stuff coming crashing down may have caused a slight stroke which made him bite his tongue. We may never know for sure, but we aren't giving up yet. He wants to eat
and drink. He just can't for some reason. If Mr. Boots still is fighting, then my feeling is that we need to also.

Hang in there, Mr. Boots.

We love you, Dr. Dan

Dr. Dan, you are the best. TCP heard from Phyllis with the latest report.

Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots is recovering but not recovered yet. He would send him home if I insist but would rather keep him another night so I said OK. If he were to come home I would need to confine him again which would agitate everyone. Then I asked what the charge will be for all this TLC. He said $10 a night
plus the medications and fluids. I nearly dropped the phone!

Dr. Dan is being flooded with thank you cards and emails

Sunday update on Mr Boots

Phyllis informs the TCP crowd and Mr Boots fans out in cyberspace:

Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!

I haven't a clue what this will cost. What I do know is that he is getting best of care and he is responding! This sweet boy sure has a lot of friends!

+

He's a survivor and fighter, indeed. The TCP gang is going to deluge the kind doctor who is tending to Mr Boots with fan mail and thanks.

Further update on Sunday evening from Phyllis:

Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!

Late night update on Mr Boots

Bless his heart! Dan called to let me know that Mr. Boots is resting comfortably. Because we jumped on this quickly, he thinks he will bounce back pretty quickly. With the IV fluids as well as a pain medication he is already acting perkier. He also started him on the two meds. I can't believe the good fortune of having Dan appear here! Without him, I would have to wait until Monday to get him into the vet and even that might be iffy if they were all booked up.

Thanks to all who have offered prayers for Mr. Boots and encouragement for me. I really was pretty frazzled when I took him in this afternoon.

Caroline observes:
Mr. Boots is a survivor, though, and I have a feeling that he will bounce back and be happy to get back to his new kitty friends (except for Tuxxie maybe) and your loving care.

That certainly is our prayer for Mr B!

Update on Mr Boots

Phyllis wrote in at 6.15 EST

Dan finally got home. He was filling in for a vet in Cookeville today. He called me when he was heading home and met me at his clinic. Mr. Boots has a very swollen tongue with abrasions on one side. The only thing we can figure is that he got into some of the glass before Dottie got there to clean it up. He is already dehydrated because he can't swallow with that swollen tongue. He probably is also very hungry. Anyway, Dan wrapped him up in a blanket and took him home with him so he can get some fluids in him and start him on two meds - one to bring down the swelling and the other will be an antibiotic.

Poor guy. Life is not easy for him. And here I thought I was providing a safe haven. I'm feeling really bad about this!!!!!

So all of you readers, keep your good thoughts and prayers for Mr Boots, for Phyllis and for Dottie, too.

URGENT prayers for Mr Boots

Phyllis posted this note at 12.47:

Something is wrong. He is oozing putrid slightly yellowish stuff from his mouth. He just stands over his water bowl but does not drink. Dan is in Cookeville which is about 45 minutes from here. His wife is expecting him home middle of afternoon. She will contact him to see if he can get home sooner. He will call when he gets back and he will see Mr. Boots. This happened suddenly - at least I didn't notice anything unusual last night. His breath is pretty bad anyway but this has an awful smell.

Prayers, please!!!

Could it be an abscess? Glass in his mouth?

Prior to this note, Phyllis had said of Mr B:
Mr. Boots seems to be feeling at home. He has turned into a constant talker so I always know where he is!!

As for the follow-up to the mega disaster caused by Susie:
I just got back from hardware store where I got new braces for the shelf and kitty proof locks for all the cabinet doors!

PD is home with Mr B

Sounds like things got a bit wild chez PD. This note doesn't feature Mr Boots, but shows what new household he now inhabits. We've all known that Susie is a terror... well, she has proven herself once again as a feisty orange girl. [The picture that accompanies this note dates from a while ago (July 2002) and is entitled, 'Susie at play.']

Phyllis reports:

I'm home with the Trio plus one or the Quartet or the TN 4 or whatever you want to call them.

The trio are fine and Mr. Boots is very much out and about. I think he is dividing his time between Molly and Susie while Tuxxie stands aside very confused about the whole thing!

I came home to a disaster of sorts. Because Susie is the one who likes to climb and also opens doors, she is the likely culprit. When my cat sitter came in today she found one of the cupboard doors open and glass everywhere. That glass had been my mother's Fostoria Early American (or something like that) along with salad plates to her china which were English Wedgewood. I keep telling myself it is just stuff but I must admit that I am heart broken. Apparently there was glass on the counters across the way and spread from one end of the kitchen to the other as well as in drawers. It was everywhere. Molly and Tuxxie were hiding under the bed. No one had gone to the litter boxes which are in the laundry room beyond the kitchen. Their food was full of pieces of glass. I just hope no one swallowed any of it. My cat sitter was busy cleaning it up when we pulled in the driveway. She was quite upset. I am afraid I may have lost a cat sitter as the result.

But at least we are all safe and warm! What a welcome home!!!

PD, TN4

Condolences to PD on the occasion of the destruction of her china. Let's hope that chandelier-swinging Susie doesn't teach Mr Boots any new tricks.

Update on Mr B

Phyllis pinged off this note to TCP:

Thought you would like to know about my conversation with Dottie, my cat sitter. She tells me that Mr. Boots and Molly meet her at the door together and that they are sharing a food bowl (not a problem since they both eat XD). She swears each has a look of satisfaction. Mr. Boots has a new little swagger, and Molly is looking lovingly at Mr. Boots! Both are showing increased energy. She thinks there is a definite romance going on!

Lois comments:
Awwwwwwwwwwwww. How kewl is THAT! Senior Kittizens find love ...

And there were other such comments from the crowd.

Sorry, no photos yet.

To tide us over

Now that Mr Boot's story is getting known across the blogosphere we need to keep all readers, The Cats Pajamas and others, satisfied.

Here's a photo of Mr Boots (right) with Molly in Phyllis' home. She took this on 22 January. It was before Mr B went to the groomer and had his stomach shaved.

The only cat of the trio that has been a bit bent out of shape with Mr Boots' arrival was Tuxxie, but perhaps by the time Phyllis gets home he will have adjusted.

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About the same time (21 January), Val found Wylie's first note to the Cats Pajamas:

In note #84096 to THE CATS PAJAMAS, WYLIE SMITH wrote:
I have been lurking in several meetings on Ecunet for a few months and just got up my courage to write a few notes (and the computer skill to do that). This is by far the meeting that I enjoy the most (with Kitty Pics and WIMO close behind). You certainly don't need more notes here, but you all are my kind of people. I want to quit eavesdropping and participate.

I am a Presbyterian clergywoman who pastors a church of 190 in Raleigh, NC. I am owned by a wonderful, twelve year-old domestic longhair (golden with a white blaze on his chest and four white feet) named Mr. Boots. Until late August his littermate sister, Phantom, lived with us, but she has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. We both miss her a lot. Mr. Boots will have to speak to you through me because the only computer I have access to is at my office, and he would rather stay at home and rule the roost.

I look forward to getting to know you all.

+

And in the old email collection of notes from Wylie, she wrote: Attention, Photographers!

Hark!

We have such beautiful kitties in these meetings and several good photographers. Please check out this webpage and consider sending your pics. I know we have some winners in this group! This comes for the "page-a-day" folks.

To a couple of folks, there is a section for "Bad Cats." We know who they are!

Wylie

Whose? Certainly not Mr B; he was a good kitty nurse to Wylie.

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And this note, which I saved, shows Wylie's concern for others:

Hark!

I too am concerned about K. In another meeting one of the flock had to go to the hospital. She too is single and we did not hear about her for some time. When I had my surgery, Debbie was willing to share with you all about me, but I was back on the computer and so could talk with you. Maybe we need to have someone who keeps contact numbers or e-mail addresses of friends or family for each of us. Then if we are absent from a meeting for any time or if we get a note like K's (and I am sure she won't be able to let us know more of a while)we could be in touch with the contact person. Those of you who have spouses, partners, roommates, may be able to have someone access your computer and talk with us. But others of us don't have that. I recall a couple of years ago I had shared that I was having a difficult time at the church and had a meeting to go to that I was worried about. Then I neglected to tell you that I was going out of town. When I returned I saw all these notes saying, "Anyone heard from Wylie? Is she all right?" I appreciated the care. I'd love to know if Kim is all right. What do the rest of you think about having a contact list? Who would be willing to keep it?

Wylie

We did create such a list, thanks to Wylie. Surely she is watching over us now.

Pecans anyone?

PJ asks the crowd:

Anyone have a good recipe for glazed pecans? I like to use them in salads. I think of Wylie each time I use the plain ones I have. Wylie and I went to lunch and then the pecan shop in Tipton, GA last March. I still have a 2 lb. bag and want to glaze some of them.

A gentle thought from Cliff

In my simple mind I think Wylie has crossed over the bridge.

Heaven is the gift of being able to exist on both sides of the bridge.

What could possibly be better?

It seems to me that many of the spirits I've have known can hear my thoughts and influence my choices. If you think for a moment that the spirit of Wylie did not influence the outcome for Mr. Boots then I am speechless.

Debbie muses:

I'm wondering if Wylie has made it past the bridge yet, there are a lot of scritches to give and she would not want to deprive any animal of love and cuddles, and you know how demanding some of our furries can be!

Another voice

Whenever Betty can't, I can manage the blog so she won't be fully burdened by having to do all the work. Thanks to Betty for inviting me. So, send the pics and keep the story going!

As noted below, PD took Mr Boots to the groomer, Kylie (not expecting to find a woman with that name), who groomed Mr B for free (makes the heart of a human purr). People in The Cats Pajamas are noting on his appearance, and PD says,

'He is fluffy, but still very skinny under that fluf. His skin is hanging off his frame. I doubt if he will ever fill that skin up but he certainly is adding a little meat and a lot of moisture! She adds: At least he is clean, smells good, and has an amazing amount of energy. He may live out his days looking a little scruffy since there is so little under his fluff. We have our miracle by the fact that he is alive and seems to be enjoying his new life.' And Susie and Mr B ate supper side-by-side tonight.

Shall we say that in addition to his fluffiness, he also has a bit of attitude? (I love that he now taps her with his paws for attention.)

The photo in the sidebar, dated 22 January, is Mr Boots, pre visit to the groomer. He had ventured forth from his sanctuary and was enjoying the top of the couch. He still looks a little wistful to me, but given the upheavals in this poor guy's life, who wouldn't look wistful?

The TCP crowd thanks Betty and Phyllis for their efforts.

Debbi wrote, Good going all that rescued Mr Boots. I sigh in relief and shudder in terror at thoughts of reading the note he was going to the "vet" after Wylie's death. Thank-you all who were a part of the rescue!

Val answered: Debbi, I think we all are, whether we could be present or not. We all connected in one way or another!

Amen.

Lee (aka Caminante)

Mr. Boots Visits the Groomer

From Phyllis

We are back from the latest adventure. Mr. Boots does not seem at all traumatized. He is still out and about. Any of the trio would have disappeared under the bed. Kyle was very gentle with him and he let her do whatever she felt needed doing. She felt the best thing to do about the knots on his tummy and chest was to just shave him which he didn't mind at all. That way he wasn't subjected to pulling on his tender skin. Then she wiped him down ith baby wipes rather than subject him to a bath. With all the brushing and combing I've been doing, she thought that would be sufficient. She recommended I use baby wipes regularly to keep the dandruff under control so I will do that.

Jan, Lee's cat sitter, had sent me a note suggesting baby wipes but thought I should check with vet first. Kyle says they are fine, but to get the unscented ones.

So our boy is home, minus his chest and tummy fur, which doesn't seem to bother him a bit.

And -------- she didn't charge me! She said she wanted to contribute to the welfare of a rescued cat!! I took her picture. I have a new camera and have to figure out how to get pictures to computer. Will work on that later today.

Mr. Boots Writes

Note -Mr. Boots has been writing regularly to TCP.

Jan 7, 2007

Hello to my Aunties and Uncles.

I remember you from a long time ago when my mom would let me write to you. Auntie Phyllis tells me you have praying for me and loving me all week. With all that attention I have had no choice but to hang on hoping for a better day.It seems like a very long time that I was alone, scared, and wondering what would happen to me. Then yesterday, this lady puts me in my carrier and then into the car. I thought I was going to vet but we kept driving and driving. Just when I thought I couldn't stand this driving anymore, the car stopped, I was handed over to another lady, and we did it all over again. I did get to listen to Tony Bennet who lulled me to sleep for a while. Then the car stopped again, and I was handed over to two ladies. Off we went in the car again. After a very long time, the car stopped and I was taken into a house and then into a room with a comforter on the floor (which makes a nice nest), a litter box, catnip, and food. Boy did I eat and drink. I didn't realize how starved I have been. I just didn't feel like eating. Auntie Phyllis held me, crooned to me, brushed me, and before I knew it I was purring. It felt so good to be touched. She brought me another dish of food at bedti! me and I ate that too. She again gave me cuddles and I settled down in my nest. I was so tired!This morning was more of the same routine. I could get used to this. Again, I ate all my food. She gave me a treat too, but I wasn't very interested in that. Thank you all for all you are doing for me.

Purrs to you all.

Mr. Boots


Jan 9, 2007

Hi to my Aunties, Uncles, and all the kitties out there,

I've had a very interesting day. Auntie Phyllis zoom groomed me
twice and got a lot of hair off me as well as some of the
smaller knots. She is working very gently on the big ones. Maybe I
won't have to go to a groomer. Oh the zoom groom! It feels
wonderful. I even purred loud enough that she could actually hear
me.

In between she took me out of my sanctuary and sat on the sofa
with me. Three kitties came up and looked at me. Molly said
"hello" and I answered her. They didn't seem all that scary but I
did want to go hide just in case. After I met all three, she
took me back to my sanctuary.

She tells me Diane really wants to meet me and help take care of
me. She is a real cat person and understands my plight. Looks
like I am going to become a Tennessee kitty.

So far, that seems like a good deal. I like it here.

Purrs,

Mr. Boots


Jan 11, 2007

Hi all,

Auntie Phyllis just spent time with me feeding me, cleaning the litter box, and brushing me. I just couldn't help myself. I had to purrrrrr! She brought Friskie's Tarter Control Tuna and Salmon flavor to me and I loved it. Maybe that will help my yellow, tarter encrusted teeth a little bit. They are nice and crunchy. I begged for more so she gave a couple more. I chewed them right up also.

Purrs Mr. Boots


Jan 20, 2007

Hi to All,

About 5 PM this afternoon marks two weeks that I have been a Tennessee kitty. My life has sure been up and down for quite some time. When I got here I was really scared, but I've been brushed and brushed and brushed and cuddled and cuddled and cuddled and fed and fed and fed. Now I'm feeling more comfortable about being out in the house. If I get scared, I have my favorite hiding spot that I go back to. Molly and Susie seem like nice cats. Tuxxie growls at me every time I get close so I just try to stay out of his way. All in all, life is good. I didn't think I would feel this way again!

Mr. Boots

A Happy Ending

Mr. Boots and Phyllis have adopted each other. Mr. Boots will not be going on the rest of his planned journey. He and Phyllis have decided that he would like to live with her and Molly, Susie and Tuxxie. Molly and Susie are becoming agreeable to this arrangement. Tuxxie however is not sure about having another boy around.

Had Mr. Boots continued on his journey to Dennis in IL, he would have journeyed almost 900 miles. We are all so glad that Mr. Boots decided he had enough travelling.

Phyllis reports he is eating well, becoming curious about the rooms of his new home and enjoying all the pets and scritches he can get.

Bless you Phyllis and Mr. Boots.

Visit to the Vet

Phyllis H took Mr. Boots to her vet and he passed with flying colors. She reports, "Vet thinks tlc and food will
make a new cat out of him - that he has been in a stressed
condition for quite a while and needs peace and quiet."

That's great news. She got his claws clipped, he's eating and allowing her to love him. If TLC is what he needs, he's in the right place.

You rest, Mr. Boots.

Mr. Boots is on his way

Yesterday, I left TN at 7:07 am and had an uneventful drive to Atlanta. The traffic was light and I enjoyed my new Sirius radio. I arrived at Mick's resturant at 11:49 am and Nancy who was keeping Mr. Boots had already arrived. She was talking with the valet when I pulled in. We met and then I met Mr. Boots. She had been telling him he was in for a happy adventure. We got his belonging moved to my van. Then David, another friend of Wylie's pulled in. Nancy also had things for him. We loaded several bags of beanie babies and they loaded many boxes of books. Because of my mastectomy, I wasn't much help there, so Mr. Boots and I got acquainted. Nancy graciously invited me in for lunch with her friends, but I declined. Hands were shaken all around. I thanked the valet who let us make these exchanges in his lot. He gave me directions to I-75N and off we went.
Mr. Boots was a wonderful travelling companion. We talked some and he slept some. He especially liked listening to Tony Bennett. To my chagrin, he wasn't interested in ESPN radio. There went my listening to the NFL playoff analysis. I occasionally put my camera down toward the cage while driving and got some pictures.

When we made a stop, I opened the cage door and was able to get some shots without the bars in front of his face.
Too soon we arrived at The Fresh Market in Knoxville where Phyllis H. was waiting to take him on the next leg. It was great seeing her again and meeting her friend Kathy. Kathy had a wonderful huge cage in the back of her car. She had used it to moved her many (5 or 6) cats from Las Vegas. She had a rabbit move also, but not in that cage.
We took some pictures. Then, Mr. Boots was transferred to the cage, where I got my only full glimpse of him. Phyllis had finished her shopping and was ready to get home with Mr. Boots. So I said goodbye.
I did a little shopping myself (love their blue cheese burgers) and headed home. 581 miles later I was home and Mr. Boots was getting acquainted with Phyllis. He will stay a while with her. He has an appointment tomorrow with the vet. Phyllis wants to fatten him up some.
Stay tuned for the next leg of the trip.

Saving Mr. Boots

The internet is a great place. It brought a bunch of people all over the US together who's only connection at the time was being is some type of Christian ministry and loving cats. The group is called The Cat's Pajamas (TCP) and is a part of Ecunet.org.

One of our members was Wylie. Wylie had three seperate battles with the cancer beast. On Sat. Dec. 31 she died. She left behind her beloved cat, Mr. Boots. While in treatment and in hospice she had him cared for by friends. But they weren't necessarily cat people. Not knowing what to do, they planned to have him euthanized on Jan. 4.
TCP members jumped into action and have planned a resue for Mr. Boots.

Think Underground Railroad like in the Civil War. From Albany, GA to IL, imaginary quilts with cats on them will be flying. Members will be meeting members after long drives to gently hand Mr. Boots to one another as he makes his way to his new home.