It all started at the local animal shelter. My wife, Patty, had gone looking for a cat to adopt when a little tiger cat with a light orange belly bearing dark ocelot spots took up with her. Patty was drawn to the cat’s sweet little face with the terracotta nose outlined in black. Her golden eyes were completely captivating.

Laverne, as she was called, was special-and remarkable. It wasn’t just us. Everyone who met her commented on her loving nature, her desire to connect with people, her grace, and her apparent appreciation for everything done for her.

We didn’t know at the time that she had lymphoma and we would enjoy her company for only a little less than two years.

When the diagnosis was confirmed, we were still hopeful she would be able to be with us for a while. As the treatment options began to diminish, I found myself reflecting on the sweet nature of this little kitty and all I was learning from her. Laverne was just being a loving cat, yet she exhibited many sterling traits that we all would do well to emulate.

Laverne lived her life well and illustrated the benefits of making friends, establishing connection, expressing appreciation, and maintaining relationships. In this book, you will be drawn to her appealing personality and realize that our small friend had much to teach us about living and loving well.