Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Never in a million years...

"You did what?"

"I thought you were joking."

"Are you kidding? Why?"

"But. You HATE."

"Better you then me."

"That's the last thing I expected from you."

"Come again. What did you say?"

"Shut up. You're joking. Right?"

"I can't believe that out of all the people I know, you, the person that dislikes animals so much, got a kitten. I almost don't recognize who you have become." My mother gasped over the phone as I told her the news.

Before I became a mother, the only fur I envisioned in my future was the kind that I would drape around my neck when dinning in Aspen with the husband. I love my steak medium bloody rare and my purses to be Italian leather preferably stamped with the words PRADA. I'll be the first to admit that I am not an animal lover. Sure, they look great in my dreams as the backdrop for a romantic Safari get-away. I have always imagined having a cowhide carpet in our library. Animals in dreams. Just not so much in my house where I would have to have real-life contact with them.

As a child, I hated riding horses. I never actually pet a cat. I was afraid to pick up puppies. I disliked all animal smells. I could not stand dog drool and cat hairs.

Everything I was as a child, my children are not.

Especially Jay. He pets our dog, has conversations with him, feeds him, loves him, misses him when he's gone, he draws family portraits and includes our dog. In the middle of the night, I have to re-position my son on his bed and move over a dozen stuffed animals. Dogs. Cats. Mice. Snakes. Puppies. Bears. Only a sampling of his nightly cuddles.

This picture? Yeah. He came right up to me and asked, "Mama? Will you take a picture of me and baby dog because I never want to forget him"

"I want another pet. I love animals," After months of begging for another pet, I finally caved.

"Why?" You ask. Why does a person whom disliked animals as a child, rescue a kitten from the animal shelter to add to a house full of kids and one dog?

It's quite simple. I love the look in my son's eyes; more so, I love that he loves animals. I believe that's a great attribute for him to have. Yesterday, Brian Williams said on the Ellen show "I don't trust a man who doesn't love dogs." Never in a million years would I have agreed with that statement before owning real pets. Thank goodness we don't have allergies. Having pets is a wonderful addition to a loving family.

And now that I'm not forced to look through gazillions of Youtube videos of kittens I can concentrate on looking for that fur scarf I want for my Aspen weekend with the husband. That might or might not ever happen. But one can dream big, no? In the meantime, I will vow to buy "cage-free" eggs for all my animal lovers.

81classy comments:

Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing] said...

Awwww.... You got a kitteh!

And now I'm officially a dork. I've used LOL speak in 2 comments tonight. Maybe I should use it in all of my comments...

AutoSysGene said...

I can't believe how much Jay looks like you in that picture.

Your new kitty is adorable...

Marinka said...

Congratulations! My daughter and I are trying to talk my husband into getting a cat.

Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? said...

You are making me stay up too late!

That is the most adorable cat, ever! Now...what do we get to call him/her?

Does he or she get a dot com name, too?

Dennis and Leslie said...

Sooo cute! Congrats on the new addition to the family, good luck!

OHmommy said...

Oh... and the dachshund has learned to LOVE the cat. Best of friends, I kid you not. The cat... whom is named TODD, by Jay.

Blessings From Above said...

Awe, what an adorable kitten. It will be a great addition to your family.

I swore I would never own a cat myself...but a couple years back I gave in to my daughters pleading and surprised her with a kitten for Christmas. I am so glad I did. She gets such joy from owning a pet, and I was surprised by how low maintenance a cat is, especially compared to a dog. Anyways, enjoy!

BTW, Kyle came home from the hospital on Thanksgiving and is doing great. I've been so busy (and lazy about blogging) lately, I really do need to update soon.

Crystal D said...

Todd~that is hilarious. I love how little boys want to name animals like they are their best friends. Girls want to name pets "princess," but boy just like names, plain ole names.
We have a Russian Blue named Bella, actually she is "Tinker-bella."

2 Little Irish Boys said...

Such a cute picture of your son and the new little kitty! It is hard those looks in our babies eyes!!

Kelly said...

Adorable kitty. I am a huge cat lover and I guarantee that cat will grow on you! LOL

Noob Mommy said...

What an adorable addition to such a classy family :) I totally agree with you (and Ellen) btw. When I saw my husband baby talk my kitty (the same one that would try to sleep on his head at night, that sheds all over our clothes, that wakes us up at 4 am because she's fat and hungry), I knew he would be a good dad and a total softy with our daughter. Prediction proven true!

Mama Smurf said...

So glad your little boy is happy.

Cute...in a gladhe'sinyourhome way. I don't do cats. I'm allergic.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Miss Lisa said...

I love that last pic--good move on getting the kitty from the shelter :)

Maura said...

So cute - both the kid & the kitten. Very sweet story. Congrats!

Rhea said...

I'm glad Todd the kitty is friendly with the dog.

That kitty is adorable. Just adorable.

You go girl, for stepping out of your comfort zone for the love of your children.

Children who grow up with pets are all the better for it, I think.

Anonymous said...

awww. we soooooo need a cat!!!

((simply for the purpose of rodents and snakes outside. I know- seems bad- but we live in the boonies!!))

Val said...

My husband and kids want a cat so bad. My oldest in allergic though and the only ones that don't bother him are the bangel cats.
I on the other hand am not an animal person, though I have allowed a dog, frog and a hamster in the house. I keep telling the husband-as soon as I see my Nikon D80 you can get your cat.

Val said...

Oh yeah, the pic of Jay and the kitten is adorable.

Tiffany said...

Seeing the smile on your son's face is precious. Doesn't it melt your heart! I know you will have many happy years with your new kitty.

Briya said...

Awww..so cute! I have a kitten just like this one. He's crazy, but that just makes him like the rest of the family

Chelsea said...

Oh my gosh. I, the cat-hater, cannot believe how cute that picture of Jay and the kitten is!
I was wondering about Murphy, but your comment above answered my question. I bet Murphy is so sweet with Todd. :) lol

Jill said...

How sweet!! We have 1 dog, who I'm sure loves us and tolerates the unbelievable nagging from the kids. My kids on the other hand think that the dog is theirs... they dress her up, lay all over her, and cry when they think they've even remotely hurt her.

The kitty is too cute. But shhhhhh, don't tell my husband or the kids I said that. No more animals here!

Jennifer said...

thats the cutest little cat.. i just love them.

such a great mommy you are.

Miss said...

Seriously? That cat is ADORABLE!! You are going to be a cat person for life sista!

Putting the FUN in DysFUNctional said...

Oh, I love you even more. Who'd have thought that was possible?
I don't know where I got my love of animals from; my parents hate them. I love that you foster your child's love for animals.
Love, love, love!
Congrats on the new member of the family. What is his/her name?
And of course, you are even more "awesome" for rescuing it from a shelter.

Zoeyjane said...

OH man, now you've gone and made me want another kitten. Thank god we're not allowed pets!

Elisa @ Globetrotting in Heels said...

What a cute kitten! We don't have pets yet, but we plan on getting a dog when Stella is a little older and I can be sure she won't drink or eat from the dog's bowl :-)

kim-d said...

OhMommy, I'm so glad! I have two kitties and, without them, I cannot even imagine how lonely I would be. I am an animal lover, too, but know that I don't have the time and energy to devote to a dog--if I did, I would have one of those, too. Kitties are wonderful; you need to own one to fully recognize how wonderful they are.

I love that Jay loves animals; that is a trait that you want your children to have because it really does say a lot about the type of people they will grow to be. What a wonderful, sweet boy you have; Lola and Fifi are so lucky to have Jay for a big brother!

Melissa ♥ Spoiled Mommy said...

Yep-crazy indeed, you are!
Sucked in by the joy of seeing your children with animals...welcome to MY world!!
We have 1 dog and THREE cats-because Im insane and like digging at my eyeballs & sneezing. But the kids love em and you are right, the compassion they show towards the animals just makes my heart melt.

Have fun!!

Laura said...

Awww - he looks so happy - Jay and the kitty cat, both!

Indy said...

Welcome to the darkside.

Mandy said...

That kitty is so cute!!! Jay looks like he is so happy that his Mommy let him have a kitty. That's true unconditional love right there.

I have two myself along with a yorkie and a fish. Ha-ha!!!

The cats are definitely easier to take care of than the dog. They can be left alone when you go on trips. They don't have to be let out. I have both of mine declawed (all four paws). This really saved our leather furniture. I know some people would cringe about having a kitty's claws removed, but I tell you what, I made sure I gave mine pain meds round the clock to provide them comfort. It has saved so much furniture, speakers and everything else.

You will love your kitty. Try not to get too annoyed in the tiny kitty stage. They will drive you crazy for a little while. Then they grow out of it and are a whole lot calmer.

Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book.

Dorsey said...

My husband, son, AND daughter all played a part in the naming of our cat...hence we have Kitty von Whiskers

Heather said...

Jay looks so happy and proud. Can't wait to see what stories this new addition provide.

Rachel said...

Absolutely adorable!! and I don't like cats, very much.

You sweet momma. ;-)

tiarastantrums said...

HO HO!! Santa came early!

- no cats for me please! I grew up watching my grandma collect all the baby kitties and drown them on her farm (sorry folks, that's life on a real farm).
I hate cats!

Lisa said...

Cute kitten!!! What's its name? And could Jay be any sweeter?

I was amongst the cat haters growing up. Then one day I was at my grandparents farm & saw the most beautiful calico kitten. I went home begging my 7-week-old Hubby to let us have her. Her name is Eden, and although she can be a bit crotchity (and that's putting it nicely), she's a great pet & member of our family! And cats are SO easy!!!

BTW - have the kiddos be very careful not to roughhouse too much with him/her in the first few months. I think it really does change their personality!

Moooooog35 said...

Cage-free eggs?

What kind of farmer keeps eggs in cages?

Kat said...

What a BEAUTIFUL kitty! And your boy is just beaming. Absolutely awesome.
You are such a good mommy. :)
Congrats on the new member of the family. :)

the planet of janet said...

the problem i always have with kittens (which are cute) is that they grow into CATS (which are not).

enjoy your new family member!

Flea said...

Congratulations. And now you're a real mom. :) You'll love the warmth of a cat in your lap, or at your feet, in the winter. Especially when the kids are too old to curl up in your lap anymore. Not that that will happen anytime soon or anything ...

Stephanie said...

Just wait for the cat hair to take over your house...

But wait, you probably vacuum more than 3 times a year, unlike me...

Melisa said...

We must be connected because we are doing the same thing this Christmas. We have two kids and two dogs and I have always sworn off cats at my house. We had them growing up and that was enough for me. But everytime my kids are around cats and kittens, they are so cute and they absolutely LOVE cats. My husband about fell over the night I suggested that Santa should bring a kitten for the girls. CRAZY --- the things we do for our children's love of being kids.

Tami said...

Amazing what kids can get us to do! So cute!

The 5 Bickies said...

I have never been much of an animal fan but my son is going to change that. I am the one shopping for a dog for him. He is an animal boy and I think he will be happier with a dog to love and care for.

The 5 Bickies said...

I have never been much of an animal fan but my son is going to change that. I am the one shopping for a dog for him. He is an animal boy and I think he will be happier with a dog to love and care for.

Stephanie said...

Oh look how happy you have made him! That is truly the best gift of all.

Courtney said...

Oh your son is so adorable and you made him so happy!

JustADad said...

OMG -

As if you weren't already on the top of my list of "favorites"...

You quoted an Ellen guest...which, at bare minimum, means you were watching Ellen...I love her!

*laughing*

Are you sure we aren't related somehow? *grin*

Congrats on the furball, I mean kitten (actually, I LOVE kittens...I'm just not a fan of Cats...go figure..)

Have a wonderful day (it's even cold here in Vegas!)...

Kate Coveny Hood said...

I'm not really an animal person (meaning I don't care to own one - and I tend to think they all have bad breath). But even I couldn't resist that kitten. Any kitten really. There is a reason that people buy posters of kittens dangling from tree branches and reminding us to "hang in there." Kittens make people happy.

Colleen - Mommy Always Wins said...

Cool - I feel the same way about the dog. She's irritating, she's a spaz and she follows me every where I go once the boys are sleeping. (GAH!) But I would never get rid of her - she's just too sweet with my boys and they love her too much!

Don Mills Diva said...

If you get sick of the kitty send him my way - he's a doll!

Unknown said...

Cute cute cute, that kitten too LOL

Did you not have 2 dogs at some point? I thought I read that a long time ago.

Tyne said...

How cute! You caved and adopted a fur ball. Amazing what we do for our little ones...

Half Gaelic, Half Garlic! said...

How Cute!! Nick has been begging for years...I have the perfect out....I am deathly allergic!! No chance I will ever cave!

enthalpymama said...

ha ha ha ha cheeeewwwww . . .

I still love cats, but we can never get one. Just don't tell anyone that I love cats, except the half million people who read your blog, of course.

3 Peanuts said...

Ahhh you are a sweet Mommy! They will always remember the kitten.

Kim
P.S> I just bought a cowhide rug for our library about 2 weeks ago!!!! So funny when I read that!

A Crafty Mom said...

Oh SO SO SO cute!!! How fun :-) My oldest Pete asks me for a kitten all the time . . . not sure our dog would be as accommodating as yours is though ;-)!! Gorgeous pictures!

Jaina said...

Oh how fun! I'm glad you got the kitty :)

CC said...

Yes, but it's NOT going to work on me. No, no, no. We couldn't even handle the fish.

Minxy Mimi said...

Awww, what a sweet picture. I LOVE cats! and I wouldn't trust a man (or woman) who truly hated animals...they are so special!

Tara R. said...

jay has a wonderful smile. The kitten is adorable. What did you add decide to name your new pet?

Angie @ KEEP BELIEVING said...

Until I am done wiping human feces off of human bodies, I will not cave for the requests of additional life into this household. Meaning, my kids have to start being able to effectively wipe their own butts. At age 5 and 7, you would think we are close, but some days I am not so sure.

KEEP BELIEVING

Unknown said...

That is SO sweet that he likes animals so much. Just recently my 4yo has started asking for a dog (we could never have a cat due to my hus' allergies). One of these days I am sure we will give in... : )

tracey.becker1@gmail.com said...

SUICIDE!!! Is it wrong that I am always mentally counting down how long it will be till our cats die? They pee on our laundry. They eat plastic bags. The puke up the plastic bags. Then they eat the plastic from the puke.

Good times. Good times...

Have fun!

Unknown said...

Kids need pets. Some kids, however, aren't comfortable around animals. And as adults, they continue. Well done you - that you overcame your 'animal issues' and allowed the pet into your home.

(I don't know WHAT I would do if I ever got 66 comments on a post. There just ain't enough time.)

Anonymous said...

I love Jay's reaction. We are too allergic for most animals, but thank goodness for the hypo-allergenic dogs. Good for you for learning to love the soft and fuzzy.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on the newest addition.. you can see how happy he is in that second picture..

How do you do it all?? really?

Anonymous said...

Your new kitty is adorable. I've come to the conclusion that I like kitties better than puppies. They basically come potty trained, don't bark in the night, and don't chew my stuff (I can't really pick up the furniture until he quits teething). Of course, my preference may go away once this darn puppy quits chewing stuff to death. Possibly.

the mama bird diaries said...

What a cutie. Congrats on the new addition.

April said...

And see, I was shocked to learn that you haven't always been a pet lover, since I knew about the dog already.
The kitten and Jay are so cute and obviously very happy together!

Anonymous said...

I find myself drawn to animal lovers. To me and many others that shows a person's character. It is wonderful your kids love animals. They will grow up to be loving, compassionate adults. I can't even begin to explain how much I loved my dog and the many things she taught me. Animals are a great responsibility that also bring so many rewards! Enjoy your new kitty! It's very cute!!!

Cynthia said...

What a cute little kitten! So cute...now don't let him turn into a 20 pound monster like mine;)

(yes, I said 20 pounds)

Clare said...

i love the kitten, go mommy!! jay looks so happy!

Anonymous said...

This is the cutest kitten I have ever seen. It makes me want to run right out and get one. One thing we all have allergies. It is sad because both of my girls are animal lovers and not doll lovers. Like Jay Pookie has her special animals she plays with, sleeps with and snuggles with. She says she wants to be a vet and I believe her. She treats her animals like they are real babies. One day when they are older I would like to get an allergen free dog. Although my favorite dogs are black labs.

Enjoy!

mwshores@bellsouth.net

Scary Mommy said...

I've always disliked cats (sorry, folks,) but Lily has been pestering me for one for a year. That kitten does look mighty cute, I have to say. Hmmmm...

Melissa ♥ Spoiled Mommy said...

Hey OHMOMMY!!!
I have something for you over at my blog. Dont know if you do them sort of things but wanted to share with you anyway.
Have a great day!

Karen MEG said...

Yes, that kittie is the cutest!!!

Unfortunately we're allergic to cats in this house (well, me and the hubs and boy - looks like the girl, who loves them and all animals, is resistant!).

And it does not surprise me one bit that your boy adores animals ... he's such a sweet one, he is.

Anonymous said...

i don't know if you knew this about me but...i'm a SUCKA for kittens. and cats. i have 5!! and that kitten...is so freaking cute!! enjoy. cats are, imho, the most wonderful animals...as long as the only pee in the kitty litter box and nowhere else!!
xo

Eloise said...

That is one precious kitten! And the look of sheer joy on your son's face is wonderful. I think you'll find that cats aren't much trouble - so much easier than a puppy at least.

Unknown said...

That is the cutest kitten! Looks like you made your son very happy! I'm an animal hater too but I strangely have 3 cats and 1 dog.. I suppose I love cats way more than I do dogs.

 

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