Good-bye "Inky"...
Inky was six years old when he died. He came from a large family living near the Springfield airport. From the day he arrived, he lived outside....refusing the warmth of the house even during sub-zero temperatures. He awaited my appearance from the back door...often sitting aside the barn watching. As soon as I was spotted, he would begin giving his call. As soon as he heard my voice, he would come running.
He loved walks....whether in the back yard or on the road. When Chip, the German Shepherd, was here, inky would love to follow him as we walked The Lincoln Trail. At other times, he would lay on his back and try to get Chip to "play". If I would sit down, he liked to leap on my lap, stretch out and purr. He was a cat.
Visitors never knew he lived here. He would be "gone" when anyone new approached the property. So, for many, he did not exist. But for myself, I lost a good friend who was always awaiting my arrival. Just like a dog, he was there to accept me....whether he got any special food or not.
In the yard, he liked to walk ahead of me, fall on his back...forcing me to stop and pet him. It was a good trick...it always worked! If I didn't give him enough attention, he would hit my leg with his paw as I walked across the yard. If I was in the yard, he would be by my side. If I went in the house, he waited by the door.
Karin could see him, pet him and feed him. She was the only other person he liked.....and, she always fed him fresh moist food so he thought she was special.
His body now rests by the back gate. Still secretly keeping an eye on the property and waiting for me to come outside and play. He was a good friend. Good-bye Inky!
Lets go home now. It's getting late.
Lets go home now. It's getting late.