Monday, November 23, 2009

for Spotty

My computer isn't letting me post pictures (due to a complete lack of memory left), so I will have to wait until I can to do a proper post. Anyway, Spotty, one of our family cats, had to be put to sleep today. I didn't get to go home to say goodbye. He was such a wonderful cat. He acted more like a family dog. He spent all his time in the main parts of the house where he could "talk" (with loud, chirpy meows) to anyone who entered. He was always purring and smiling (you know how cats smile). I love him so much and miss him already, and hate the thought of going home to him not being there.
In honor of Spotty, who always lived for the moment (and loved forts made of blankets), I thought I'd post this poem I love (I'm not sure who it's by) on being an artist:
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How to be an Artist
Stay loose. Learn to watch snails. Plant impossible gardens. Invite someone dangerous to tea. Make little signs that say "YES!" and post them all over your house. Make friends with freedom and uncertainty. Look forward to dreams. Cry during movies. Swing as high as you can on a swing set, by moonlight. Cultivate moods. Refuse to "be responsible." Do it for love. Take lots of naps. Give money away. Do it now. The money will follow. Believe in magic. Laugh a lot. Celebrate every gorgeous moment. Take moonbaths. Have wild imaginings, transformative dreams, and perfect calm. Draw on the walls. Read every day. Imagine yourself magic. Giggle with children. Listen to old people. Open up. Dive in. Be free. Bless yourself. Drive away fear. Play with everything. Entertain your inner child. You are innocent. Build a fort with blankets. Get wet. Hug trees. Write love letters. 
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I love the smallest things. It's hard to find people to talk about small things with, like standing under a big tree in the dark waiting for yellow leaves to fall on you, white porches with twinkle lights lining the windows, and the trotting of dog feet. If you find someone to talk about small things with, you shouldn't let them go.
I hope you all had lovely weekends, and be sure to kiss and love all of the animals in your life. They are so special.
xoxoxo

7 comments:

madeleine said...

I'm so sorry to hear about Spotty, he sounds like a wonderful friend. The poem may/may not have made me a little weepy, as it's beautiful and it's been a long day. The little things are the things that make life better - the first star coming out at night, the birds flying, fresh rain, the feel of a warm house after an absence, or the completely hysterical welcome you always get from a puppy.

Speaking of which, Lottie the puppy sends you lots of hugs, as she's reading this post with me. (seriously, if you pick her up, she puts her front paws on your shoulders and nuzzles your neck! its a Hug!)
xoMadeleine

Kate said...

The animals of this universe are lucky to have you. And the small moments are always worth talking about. Always.

rachel_jackson said...

spotty was such a special friend. He was so lucky to have a family like yours; a family that loved him so much over the years and family that will continue to love him even though he isn't around anymore. it goes without saying but please call me whenever you want to talk. i'll be thinking good thoughts for your kitty angel.

WoolenSails said...

I am sorry to hear about Spotty. It is hard when we lose our pets, they are so dear to us and love us unconditionally. I think if more people learned to enjoy the little things in life, there would be a lot more happier and content people.

Debbie

Amanda Laurel Atkins said...

thank you, guys. :) love you.

A Painted Journey said...

Hey sweetie... Needless to say, I cried when I read your heartfelt post about our Spotty... I could hardly read it aloud to daddy. Such a beautiful tribute for such a special boy... Love, Mumsy

Carol Jeandel said...

love your area it felt nice love your spotty that make me smile :)