Here is my story...

When I was a young kitty, I lost my way home one day.  I was scared and lonely.  One day, though, my life changed forever.  I don't remember the exact day, but it was in June 2005.  I had been walking for days and I was exhausted, thin to the bones and very hungry when I saw this red house at the bottom of a long hill.  Like tomatoes, red is my favorite color so I knew immediately this was a place I needed to check out.  The beautiful green lawn was so cool and soothing on my tired and aching paws.  There was this huge 200 year old maple tree next to the house.  I stopped there to catch my breath and relax a bit.  It was early in the morning and the sun had just come up, and it was so peaceful and quiet.  Nobody in the house was up yet, so I decided to snoop around.  Wow !  I saw this huge red barn on the property.  I was thinking I bet there are lots of secret hiding places where I can find refuge and take a very long nap.  I found the barn to be very old with lots of character and I liked it already.  Except for the barn swallows, there were no other critters in there.  It had an upper level, and as I ventured up the stairs, I saw a big pile of hay in the corner.  I made my way over, smelled it, rolled in it, made my bed and crashed.

When I woke up, I saw that food and water were placed in the barn for me.  How did someone know I was here?  Was I purring that loudly?  I was cautious at first, but it didn't take long for me to enjoy the peace, serenity and safety of my new surroundings.  A "Lost Kitty" notice was posted around the neighborhood to see if I belonged to someone in the area.  Days and weeks went by with no response.  My "new family" fell in love with me as I melted their hearts more and more each passing day.

Now about 8 years later, I call this place my home.  My days are very busy as I explore and "work" around the yard in the early morning, eat breakfast, sleep in the sunroom during the day, enjoy tuna fish treats for supper, and finally end my day relaxing as I watch TV on my owner's lap.

I have earned my stay here by advancing to "President and CEO" of my owner's heirloom tomato farm, and launching my web site this year.  I LOVE the attention I get from visitor's that come to the farm to buy my heirloom tomato plants and all the vegetables we sell in season.  Like all animal lovers, my owners treat me well and think I am very special.  I have moved into their hearts forever. 

I hope you enjoyed reading about my journey in life so far.  You can read other cat stories in "News - Rusty's Cat Tales".  One final request from a lost kitty that found a good home.  Please support your local ASPCA or animal shelter by either adopting, volunteering or providing food and other supplies for homeless animals.

Lastly, I share with you a message written by composer J. S. Bach

"Let there be kindness in your face, in your eyes, in your smile, in the warmth of your greeting.  Always have a cheerful smile.  Don't only give your care, but give your heart as well."

Thanks for visiting ! 

Rusty

Have a puurrfect day !!