Hi Friends and Family, 

Seventeen years ago, I took an unintentional trip to the Austin SPCA to help my friend pick out a puppy. I ventured off on my own, browsing the caged pets, feeling kinda guilty for being there with no intention of taking anyone home. During that visit, I had my back turned to a litter of Siamese kittens, just 6 weeks old; I hadn't even registered their presence until I felt a odd sensation on my shoulder — a mix of pain and love (claws in the skin!). I tried to remove the kitten's fierce nails from my shirt and I even took her out for a minute to pet her and cajole her back to her reality. But alas, she persisted, like no other woman has in my life. She was coming home with me whether I liked it or not. 

A little less than two weeks ago, I had to say goodbye to my favorite friend, Denver. Even if you don't know me that well (hi, Facebook friends!) you've undoubtedly been graced with the more-than-occasional photo of Denver — whether it was her passed out in the sun or chowing down on taqueria chips, because those were some of her favorite things (she also really loved hip-hop happy hours).

There aren't enough characters here to express the joy she brought to my life or the sadness I feel having lost her. So here's a donation fund I started, in Denver's name, to help the Austin SPCA continue doing what it does best: giving animals a better life. Donate if you wish, or just pass it on to other animal lovers. Either way, thanks for reading our story. 

xo, 

E