My sweetie, Dasher

And the memories remain ...


Really ... you were the first friendly face we saw when we moved into Woodlands in December 1999. You greeted us everytime we walked past the void deck with a friendly rub and waiting for a pat. You showed us your family. With your little "waak" your kittens would suddenly appear from drains or behind discarded furniture, whereever you had set up temporary home.

We tried to bring you up once, but you wouldn't have it. Perhaps there were more kittens you had to look after and so you stayed by the door, till we let you go free once again.

Evening feeds at the void deck became our ritual, a little packet of fish, a rub on the leg, one pat and you were satisfied... content. That's why we called you Sweetie at first for that was what you are ...

But life wasn't safe for you out there. Most of your kittens never made it but still you tried. We were only able to rescue one - Blitzen. Her brother left you a few days before and we are glad to see that at least he still survives, prowling the neighbourhood. Jet black and handsome, you would be so  proud of him for he followed in your footsteps.

And so we took you up and gave you a home on April 1 2003. There would be no more babies for you to worry about - your job has been done well. When we had you fixed, the vet said it was lucky we got you in when we did. Your womb was so distended by the many births, you would not have survived much longer.


While you made yourself at home indoors, it was still life on your terms. You kept to yourself but you were never short of offering affection. You still had a wandering streak that refused to be tamed. You would migrate from one part of the house to another, staking your claim to one sleeping spot and soon to move on to another. You were always dashing around and so we christened you Dasher.

Remember that brushing stint we went through some time back? It took you a while to get used to it and then you started to enjoy it ... pity I was too lazy and that stopped. I am sorry ...

I bathed you two weeks ago remember ... that very quick shower 'cos we all know how you hate to get wet. And last night I gave you your last meal ... your favourite fish ... none of that dry food you never liked. But you were already weak and your time was coming.

Sitting beside you when you left this afternoon was tough. You looked at me and you knew ... You never closed your eyes even when u left but it was still a parting well made.

Tequila-land where you now rest will never be the same ... the rain today washed away tears. A bow around your neck and an old Christmas ornament you played with remain with you as the memories remain with me ...

Rest well sweet Dasher ... we will surely meet again soon