Edge

One of Simon's favorite spots is on the edge of our back porch railing. I think it's because he can rub his head on the corners and spy on the neighbors across the street at the same time.

Simon, on his perch

(Illustration Friday: January 11, 2013)

Simon (199? - April 16, 2012)

"Blessed are they who go around in circles, for they shall be called wheels."

Ode to Old Fuzzy Face

There once was a magic cat.

He came into our lives, and that was that.

His leg was crooked. His eyes were crossed.

It was clear that he was lost.

We took him home, where he went round.

"I was lost," he said. "But now I'm found.

Just like the song, shall I sing it to you?

Or, can I just go in circles? I make u-turns too."

We voted for the latter, for which he was most fond

After bounding out of the woods or rolling by the pond.

He'd start every day with a whiff of fresh air

Then circle the house to make sure it's all there.

He'd always offer Dad a paw

To draft a project or work with the saw.

With Mom, he'd be first to cut the cards.

And help her with gardening in the yard.

He'd come circling, whirling all over the map

Purring and kneading right into my lap.

Scratching his head never got old.

Stop and he'd look, wondering why I'm on hold.

Curled up like a powder puff, napping so sweet.

This furball kept me planted for hours in my seat.

This cool cat was one of the best.

But, now, he has been laid to rest.

"It's okay," I thought. "I can still find him on TV

As The Celtics point guard for all to see."

Making circles and u-turns with the ball

Sometimes, the other players don't see him at all.

That's right: He can also beam himself, over here or over there.

Don't be sad: Like Jedi Master Obi-Wan, he is everywhere.

Simon is our magic cat.

Always will be, that is that.