Sweet Boy Simon, the Little Brown Tiger
It began not quite fifteen years ago. My husband Michael and I had wanted to have a baby; but, unfortunately that was not to be. It was a difficult time and Michael suggested that we should get a pet, thinking that might help heal the sadness in my heart. I said. . . NO! I had several dear pets in the past. I knew how those things worked. We would choose a precious kitty. I would fall in love and then something would eventually happen. I just couldn't bear the thought of another loss. But Michael persisted. Finally, I agreed to go and "look" at the kitties available for adoption at the Orange County Animal Shelter. It was a big adoption event with lots of people, noise and commotion. All those adorable hopeful faces, all so much in need of a loving home. I wanted each and every one. But there was one in particular—a little brown tiger with a big voice. He meowed as loud as a tiny seven-week-old kitten possibly could. He would not be overlooked. Michael claims he made the choice. I actually think it was me. Truth be told, it really probably was that brown tiger who chose us. As Michael went to complete the adoption paperwork I asked one of the shelter workers if I might hold the little guy for just a moment. As soon as he was in my arms the insistent meowing ceased. He was safe and he had found his forever home. That was all it took . . . just a moment to fall in love with our Sweet Boy Simon. That tiny kitten grew into a sizeable fellow—topping out at around seventeen pounds. He was full figured to be sure and we all delighted in bestowing upon him many a nickname to acknowledge his poundage . . . Mr. Bigs, Two Ton Tubby, Si-monster, etc. That said, it wasn't just his weight that was large, it was his personality too. He was smart, confident, good natured, clever, brave, an accomplished hunter, a bit stubborn and, as we often reminded him, oh so handsome.
Nothing feels better
than the warm sunshine
Here were just a few of Simon's favorite things:
* Eating Breakfast
* Taking Dirt Baths
* Getting Belly Rubs
* Eating Lunch
* Surveying his Domain
* Lounging in the Sun
* Visiting Best Friend Bud & Eating Bud’s Food
* Revving up his PURR Machine
* Wagging (aka Swishing) his Tail
* Eating Dinner
* Teasing his Little Sister Chloe
* Finagling Extra Treats from Mom
* Stretching out on Dad’s Lap
* Eating a Midnight Snack
Lounging on the windowsill.
Not a care in the world.
Simon’s illness came on completely without warning. He had just had a vet check-up a few months earlier and all seemed well, with the slight exception of a couple minor issues we were monitoring. When we were given the diagnosis of aggressive terminal cancer it was gut wrenching. Within two weeks it was clear that although Simon’s spirit did not wish to leave, his body would not let him stay.
Even though we were sure it was the most caring thing we could do for our Sweet Boy. . . letting Simon go was one of the most difficult decisions we have ever faced. We so appreciate Dr. Annie’s acknowledgement of how important Simon was to our family. Her gentle guidance, understanding and incredible compassion have been a real source of comfort to us. With her support, we were able to say goodbye to Simon in rather the same way we had first met . . . with loving arms surrounding him. He slipped away peacefully on Michael's lap while we all sat together on our patio in the warm sunshine. Thank you Dr. Annie for helping us make that transition for Simon as kind and humane as possible.
Simon, just by being himself, was a tremendous healing gift for me. The simple weight of his presence is something Michael and I both dearly miss. As heartbreaking as it was to let him go, it is impossible to imagine not having had him as part of our family. He brought us so much joy for more than fourteen years. Simon trusted us, and we trust he knew the full measure of our love for him. He definitely had a great kitty life. . . and not a day went by that he didn't bring some measure of goodness or happiness our way. We miss Simon dearly, but he will be with us always, tucked safely in our hearts.
There are so many wonderful memories, so many stories to tell and so many reasons to smile. All because of a little brown tiger that would not be overlooked.
Michael & A.J. Olson
Newport Beach
Simon & Chloe with Santa