THE ARRIVAL: A 200 Word Rainbow Bridge Story by Kiril Kundurazieff
It was late afternoon, Rainbow Bridge arrival terminal was hoppin’!
Tom, Maximus and Boots, the dog, were eagerly awaiting the approaching arrivals; word had come down, that the time had come for another companion of their human to leave behind his earthly life and they were to welcome him.
Finally, a groggy, confused Maine Coon approached, the years and wear and tear, sloughing off his frame with every step, until he looked as fit and trim as in the best years of his life. He looked at the 3 before him and said, “Tom? Maximus? Is that you? Who is this dog? Where am I?”
Tom stepped forward, rubbing noses with the cat, saying, “Professor Nikita, opinionated pussycat, my protégé, yes, it is I. I am proud of you. You did good! Welcome to Rainbow Bridge; Maximus is here, and so is Boots, Daddy Kiril’s last dog.
Your questions will be answered in good time but, for now, we are to help you get situated and acclimated to the afterlife. Once refreshed and ready, someone wants to meet you…he’s the editor-in-chief of our new news service; he says you are just the critter to join the team he is developing.”
Dear friends and fans of The Opinionated Pussycat:
It is with a very heavy heart that I come to you today; Mr. Nikita, the original opinionated one, my creative inspiration since I first went online in late 1998, has made his journey to Rainbow Bridge.
As you read this (posted 215pm cst) I am about to take one final walk with Nikita, in his stroller, to and around the new Farmer's Market at St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church in Houston (Cyril is Greek for Kiril); At 4pm I will be holding him as he takes that last stroll into the sunset. There will be tears, lots of them, tonight, and for the next few days but, in the belief that creativity helps with the grieving process I have been preparing for this moment and, in a way, that preparation began with the October 18th announcement of Nikita retiring and handing the reins over to his young protege, Elvira.
I and “Elvira” have a lot to share, so I hope, in honor of the late, great, Professor of the Nikita Institute for Feline Studies, you will join us in a tribute in the only way I know how.
With photos (taken over the past week), essays and poems, full of seriousness and humor.
I had a long phone chat with my new vet lady on October 16th. Except for a sudden liking for 9 Lives Ocean Whitefish Dinner his eating habits hadn’t improved.
I told her how he acted frisky, even hauling ass to the kitchen at the sound of a can opening, yet will often just sit and stare at the bowl, or me, a while, before taking a bite. But he's also wobbly on his feet sometimes. My decision to chat with my doc was influenced by the passing of Cokie the Hollywood Insider and only was re-enforced by the sudden, un-expected passing of Maverick, the older dog of my Texas friend Chandra, overnight.
The vet talked about her feelings about letting a pet go, before the condition gets acute, especially if the owner is unable to do more for the pet in the way of medical care. To her it's all about quality of life.
I talked about how I did not want to go through, with Nikita, what I put my last dog through.
My last dog, Boots, in the 90's, I didn't have a vet, and his last year was a horrible decline for him until one day he could no longer walk, and so I had a sister drive me to an all-night vet where I left him to be put to sleep.
Tore me up inside to do that.
She suggested we try one week of an appetite stimulant pill, for $4, to see what he does (but my last vet tried that with no success and I wonder if by doing so, again, I'd only be deluding myself and delaying the inevitable), and in the meantime have me chat with the front desk about the costs for putting him to sleep.
The decision was made a few days later, and Nikita has been loved and played with and allowed to eat what he felt like eating (the tablets, 1/4 every 3 days, did little, as expected), and I have spent the time preparing how to celebrate his life on this blog.
I
rescued him from the shelter at the Pomona Valley Humane Society to be a
companion for my old cat, Tom, in his old age (Tom soon went to the
bridge, though) and, under the name of “Hokie” he was responsible for
reviving a long dormant creative side of me, as my sidekick on a long
gone message board community and in 2002, when I got my first blog, in
fits and starts, as his real name, “Nikita” was an active part of it.
By 2004 the cat blogging community was beginning and, when I discovered it, I found reason to make “Nikita” an even more active part of my blogging on that blog and, beginning in 2007, my next blog, Musings of a Mad Macedonian.
The more active, the more creative, I became with him in my writing, the more sense it made to give him his own blog, so, on Jan. 1, 2010 this blog was born.
Since 2007, but especially since 2009 and 2010, the praise and recognition “Nikita” and I have received have encouraged me greatly in my writing.
Not having him in my life will be hard; there will be so damn much about him, and the things he did around the apartment that I will miss. I will also miss how camera friendly he was.
Such a friendly, curious, intelligent, playful, funny, athletic cat....
My original creative muse is gone, but will never be forgotten; he has given me a reason to write and to continue to write, as “Miss Elvira”, as well as left me with years of material that can, I hope, be organized, edited, and published in new, even profitable, ways.
I have a lot to learn and a lot to do, if I want to take this blog in new, better directions and, while my personal life is rather difficult at the moment (a temp job, concern about paying the rent and my few other bills, each month) I have faith that moving to Houston, a year ago, to start fresh, continues to be the right choice in my life.
"Nikita, My Sweet Muse" By Kiril Kundurazieff
Nikita, Nikita,
15 years with you
Just an opinionated pussycat
Nikita, my sweet muse.
Nikita, Nikita
Words for you
Came as easy and clear
On any subject, I just looked to the news.
The paws of another reach out to me
Another kitty purrs tenderly
Still in my sleep I see
The creative debt I owe to you.
Nikita,
Ooh Nikita, the peace I find
Will come through another
Honoring Nikita, my sweet muse.
Another kitty is the creative spark for me
Another voice is the opinionated pussycat
Still in my sleep I see
The creative debt I owe to you.
Nikita, Nikita,
The future I find
Expressing the thoughts of another
Pays tribute to Nikita, my sweet muse.
Just the original opinionated pussycat
Nikita, my sweet muse.
With sincerely thanks and apologies to Hoagy Carmichael
I now turn things over to Miss Elvira.....
Hello, dear friends, Elvira Mistress of Felinity here. I'm more than just a great looking feline, I'll have you know! Bold, fresh, cuter than a speckled pup, and the most delightful pussycat in the world! You can call me Miss Elvira for short; just don't call me late for dinner, treats, a nap, or a snooze!
Welcome to my tribute to my mentor, Mr. Nikita. You are about to enter the no bull zone! Grab some tissue, felinity assembled; it's going to be a tearful ride!
The first time I saw him, soon after entering the lives of him and Daddy Kiril, I thought he was HUGE!
He taught me everything I know, about life and about writing, and there are not enough words in either English, or Felinese, to express what he has meant to me and how much I love and will miss him.
I am working on a post, for Monday that, while one final tribute to Nikita, will also help set the stage for this blog without him, including mentioning something hinted at by Nikita in one of the above photos.
For now, how about another photo, and my own poetic tribute....
Nikita Was His Name-O! By Elvira Mistress of Felinity
There was an opinionated Pussy,
And Nikita was his name-o.
He shared his thoughts.
He spoke his mind.
Quite the writer, I’ll have you know!
Lady Cats thought him cute,
He pissed off PETA,
And Nikita was his name-o.
His blog some folks digged; some it "creeped out"!
Quite the writer, I’ll have you know!
“You Rock!” they said.
“You’re quite talented!”
"What a beautiful smile!"
And Nikita was his name-o.
Quite the writer, I’ll have you know!
"An established feline journalist!"
“A real source of inspiration!”
“Y’all check him out”, was the word,
“Strong-willed”, “Refreshing” “Full of personality”
And Nikita was his name-o!
With humble thanks and apologies to the Boy Scouts of America
------------------------
A short good-bye from Nikita:
Dear friends, I do not write to say good-bye, but "'til we meet again". It has been a wonderful and grand life, full of friendship and adventure. The list of humans, felines and other critters, I wish to say thank you to is a long one, but you all already know who you are; I will not name you here so as not to risk forgetting someone.
Thank you for your friendship and encouragement and for reading and sharing my work.
I love you all.....
Mr. Nikita
The most opinionated pussycat in America!
A "Best of" short list, showcasing a few of what I, unashamedly, believe are some of the very best pet themed blogging you will ever find on the internet, as written by Mr. Nikita.
If you want to know Nikita, and how he inspired me, these posts are a good start, and I invite you to explore them at your leisure.
1/9/10 - May I Have a Word? Series (Just follow the links)
1/29/10 - Tales From the Litter Box: Memories of My Kittenhood
2/1/10 - Healthy Living Thru Cats: An Expose
3/23/10 - Have You Filled Out Your 2010 United States Census Form?
9/15/10 - 18 Easy Steps to Becoming a Writer - Feline Edition
10/1/10 - In Search of KC's Roots: A Feline News Network Investigation (3 pts.)
4/14/11 - Reviews of the 2 books written by Sparkle the Designer Cat
6/1/11 - Hey, Felinity Assembled! Do You Watch Too Much TV?
10/21/11 - Join the Occupy Your Litter Box Movement! Plus the movement maifesto!
4/10/12 - FNN SPECIAL REPURRT: The No Kill Animal Shelter Revolution series (Just follow the links)
May 2013 - Nikita takes "Short Story a Day in May" Challenge (The story of Aubrey): Begin with this story and follow the links (all 100 Words each, except 1, at 200).
Poetry and Song:
12/19/10 - The Ballad of the Cat Berets
7/4/11 - The Midnight Prowl of Those With Claws - An Independence Day Tribute to the Founding Felines
8/16/12 - Us Felines: A Poem
12/1/12 - ‘Twas the Night Before Catmas…
7/4/13 - Sixteen Coyotes
Sincere, humble and grateful thanks to Ann of Zoolatry for the awesome, moving, badge in honor of Nikita.
I can't thank you enough for all you have done for this blog over the years, my friend.
Kiril Kundurazieff
Writer
Houston, TX.
opinionated.feline at gmail dot com
NEXT: Lessons from Nikita: In His Own Words
Sending condolences from all of us at Purrchance To Dream.
Posted by: Mo & The Purries | October 25, 2013 at 02:50 PM
Oh my goodness. So sad to know that Nikita went to the bridge.
He had the best life ever.
Prayers for all of you. God Bless your hearts
Posted by: Pierro and Miles and Rosemary B | October 25, 2013 at 02:51 PM
I did not know Nikita, but your memories and conversations before he left for The Bridge are heart warming.
Paw hugs, Savannah and Mom Linda
Posted by: Savannah's Paw Tracks | October 25, 2013 at 02:56 PM
We are so very sorry to read of Nikitas passing, but know you gave him a wonderful life!
We know you will see him again one day and we are certain Junior will wander over and visit with him.
Posted by: Orion, Sammy and Emily | October 25, 2013 at 03:00 PM
My dear friend, I am sad that you had to leave but I know you were loved and gave love in return.
We know your Daddy will miss you so but he will feel you watching over him.
Run free dear Nikita, you will live in our hearts forever.
Posted by: Brian | October 25, 2013 at 03:02 PM
We're saddened to read it's Nikita's time to cross to the Bridge and are sending soft purrs to help comfort you.
Godspeed, Nikita, till you meet your family again.
Blessings and Peace.
Posted by: Fuzzy Tales | October 25, 2013 at 03:02 PM
Kiril, we are sad it came Nikita's time to leave.
We know he was loved and will be missed.
You and Elvira will need each other in the days ahead.
Hugs through tears.
Posted by: Jans Funny Farm | October 25, 2013 at 03:03 PM
Our eyes are leaking reading this blog post.
What a wonderful and unique tribute to Nikita.
We are so very sorry for your loss.
Please know you are in our thoughts and purrayers during this very sad time.
Posted by: Maggie May and The Creek Cats | October 25, 2013 at 03:07 PM
Dear Kiril & Elvira,
We're so very sorry for the loss of your dear Nikita.
We're sending you are very best purr & prayers to comfort your hurting hearts.
love,
Glogirly, Katie & Waffles
Posted by: Glogirly and Katie | October 25, 2013 at 03:09 PM
We're sad, so sad to read that Nikita crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
Mum had tears in the eyes by reading the post.
We're sorry for your loss.
We send you comforting purrs and gentle headbutts.
Purrs
Posted by: Loupi and Zorro | October 25, 2013 at 03:10 PM
Nikita I is so furry lucky to have known you.
I is so sorry you have not felt right and was not doing well as of late.
Your daddy Kiril loves you so much and has done his furry best.
I know us furry babies are so lucky to have peeps that love us and do their best for us.
We couldn't have asked for more right.
Momma and I send good thoughts to your daddy, he will remember so many wonderfur memories of you as you send your love from above.
Purrrrrrrrs
Posted by: Baby Patches | October 25, 2013 at 03:16 PM
Good-bye dear Nikita.
It is always sad to see a comrade in arms pass on to the RB.
Our best wishes to your dad and to Miss Elvira in their venture and prayers as they grieve the loss of you in their lives.
Purrs and hugs, Lily Olivia, Mauricio, Misty May, Giulietta, Fiona, Astrid, Lisbeth and Calista Jo
Posted by: Kitties Blue | October 25, 2013 at 03:24 PM
I am very sorry to hear of Nikita's passing.
His wit and opinions brightened many a day.
God's Speed, Nikita, until we meet again.
Posted by: TK | October 25, 2013 at 03:35 PM
Oh, no.
Elvira and Daddy Kiril, I'm so sorry (and typing with tears in my eyes) at the news that our dear, wise friend Nikita has made his way to the Bridge.
We are blessed for having known him, and grateful that you shared him with all of us.
Thank you for loving him so much, and so well.
Surely you will one day be reunited with your Nikita, but until then, he will send you reminders that he is still keeping watch over you, and still living in your hearts.
Nikita, we look forward to the day we see you again. What a joyous day that will be! Fly free, dear friend.
Hugs, purrs and prayers,
Kevin, Tracey, Moosey, Gracie and Zoe
Posted by: meowmeowmans | October 25, 2013 at 03:40 PM
We are so sad to hear about Nikita's passing.
We have enjoyed getting to know him through the pages over the past few years, and came to know him and all of you as friends.
This is a wonderful tribute you have made for him, and we know you all loved him very much.
Sending our thoughts and purrs.
-Amar and Luna (CatSynth)
Posted by: CatSynth | October 25, 2013 at 03:55 PM
We are so very sad to read of Nikita's passing.
This was one of the first pet blogs we started reading.
There has of course been lots of changes at our blog over the years but we all loved the opinionated pussy cat.
Posted by: Scylla, Socks, Tuiren & Fenris | October 25, 2013 at 04:19 PM
We are all so sadden by the news of Nikita leaving for the Bridge.
Every single time an animal passes over a piece of our hearts go with that special little angel.
I know that there are no words of comfort, in fact I know of none that help,other than to let you know how very sorry I am over your loss, and it is a huge one, one that will be very difficult as the next few days and weeks will reveal.
YOU are deeply in my thoughts and I would like to say to be gentle with yourself as there will be much soul searching.
Just know you gave Nikita a wonderful home and much love and that is all any of us could ever want. He was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have him. That love you shared will sustain you in your deepest hour of sorrow and loss.
Please feel at any time to contact me at manxmnewsATgmailDOTcom.
I offer my shoulder to listen anytime. I will keep you in my thoughts and hope that the healing process is aided by Nikita himself through the love he holds for you.
Many hugs and blessings.
xoxoxxo
Posted by: Angel Abby | October 25, 2013 at 04:20 PM
Daddy Kiril and Elvira, we are sending you lots of purrrss n {{HUGS}} (those are from the Mom). We will miss Nikita alot. We are very glad that we met you all and that you are our furriends.
Nikita buddy, we will not say goodbye either, but just "until we meet at the Bridge...."
Now we has to go find some tissues. you know, for the mom. her eyes are leaking alot.
Posted by: The Meezers | October 25, 2013 at 04:22 PM
I'm sure it doesn't feel like it, but I'm betting Nikita is happy now with Boots, Maximus, and Tom.
Our deepest, sincerest condolences to you and Miss Elvira. Y'all made good decisions, I think.
Here's what a friend sent me when I lost my Pluto. I believe this will help you and Elvira as time goes on.
“Grieve not,
nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you.....
I loved you so --
‘twas Heaven here with you.”
--by Ilsa Paschal Richardson
Posted by: Marilynn, Grace & Company | October 25, 2013 at 04:53 PM
Daddy Kiril and Miss Elvira, we come to give you comforting purrs upon hearing that Nikita has crossed the Bridge.
We know it is hard to say goodbye to a beloved kitty.
You will be sad for some time,but you will always have your happy memories.
Purrs and Headbumps,
Tillie and Georgia,
Treasure,Tiger, JJ and Julie
and mom Nancy
Posted by: Tillie and Georgia | October 25, 2013 at 05:08 PM
Fare thee well, Nikita. Until we meet again.
Posted by: Lee County Clowder | October 25, 2013 at 05:14 PM
We're so sorry to hear the sad news about your beloved Nikita, and send you comforting vibes and purrayers for your loss.
He had a great life with you, and you'll always have those good memories until you meet again.
Posted by: A few Good Cats | October 25, 2013 at 05:20 PM
Kiril, our hearts are breaking for you over the loss of your precious Nikita. You are in our thoughts and purrs. (((hugs)))
Posted by: Laila and Minchie | October 25, 2013 at 05:28 PM
Good journey, Nikita.
I'm so sorry, Kiril. *hugs*
~ Robyn and the Hotties
Posted by: Robyn Harton | October 25, 2013 at 05:43 PM
Sending comforting purrs and prayers.
kintaro & tt of kazoku neko
Posted by: momsbusy, kintaro, & tt | October 25, 2013 at 06:01 PM
I am so sorry about Nikita, and I will miss him lots.
He was really an awesome and very handsome mancat.
Purrs to you.
Posted by: Sparkle | October 25, 2013 at 06:10 PM
Dearest Kiril,
I just received word that your beloved Nikita is gone, and I am so utterly sorry for your loss!
No matter how much you prepare yourself for your beloved cat's departure, there is really no preparing for their absence.
The Rainbow Bridge is a much happier place now that Nikita has arrived - but I know that it will take some time for you and Elvira to adjust.
Your tribute was beautiful. Isn't it amazing how one bundle of fur can so utterly change your life?
Hugs from your friends - human and feline - at Create With Joy!
Posted by: Create With Joy | October 25, 2013 at 06:30 PM
We're so sorry for your loss. Purrs to help ease your sadness.
Posted by: Quill and Greyson | October 25, 2013 at 06:54 PM
Dearest Kiril and Miss Elvira - My heart is so heavy for you both.
Nikita is truly an inspiration. I've only known you all for a short while, but in that time, I've grown to love you.
I know that Mr. Nikita is sharing his talent there and those around him are delighted to have his magical presence.
Take care, Kiril & Miss Elvira.
Carry on as Mr. Nikita would want.
All the best - Lori
Posted by: Lori Smith | October 25, 2013 at 07:13 PM
Dear Kiril,
I'm so sorry. I was so honored and comforted by your tribute to Cokie earlier this month. I had no idea Nikita would be joining him so soon.
I'm glad you were able to have some time to prepare and properly say goodbye to Nikita, not that that makes it easy or will make you miss him any less.
Much love,
Cokie's mom, Kristin
Posted by: Cokie the Cat | October 25, 2013 at 07:24 PM
You are an amazing example of how to let a loved one go.
I applaud you for sharing your story in a way that doesn't apologize for the need to move on, while remembering Nikita's life in a wonderful way.
We are sending hugs & prayers,
Pam & Oskar
Posted by: Pam & Oskar | October 25, 2013 at 08:13 PM
We are sad to hear Mr. Nikita left for The Rainbow Bridge.
Hugs and purrs from our house.
Posted by: Terri | October 25, 2013 at 08:44 PM
God bless and keep you, Kiril.
You will see your friend again, I promise.
J
Posted by: jaspar | October 25, 2013 at 09:04 PM
We are so very sad to hear that your beloved muse Nikita has gone to the Bridge.
It is hard to let them go but he is now happy and healthy again and will be with you in your heart until you meet again.
Posted by: Cats of wildcat woods | October 25, 2013 at 09:36 PM
Sending soft purrs of comforting during this sad time. He was so loved and adored. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Charlemagne, Tamar and Mal
Posted by: Charlemagne, Tamar and Mal | October 25, 2013 at 09:38 PM
It is most difficult for those of us left behind when a beloved companion crosses the Bridge, but life was sweeter for them being in it and all our future will have them with us still...Fly Free, Nikita.
Posted by: Teri and the cats of Curlz and Swirlz | October 25, 2013 at 09:47 PM
I'm here to pay my respects to Nikita. *bows head*
Comforting purrz to his Dad and Elvira.
Posted by: Cathy Keisha | October 25, 2013 at 09:49 PM
We are so very sorry to hear this sad news about your sweet muse and precious boy Nikita.
We are holding you and Nikita in our thoughts and hearts.
Be Well Sweet Nikita
Posted by: Clooney | October 25, 2013 at 10:12 PM
What an extraordinary support system you have here, Daddy Kiril. Your tribute was emotional yet beautiful. A lovely sentiment yet humorous as is your trademark.
I know how important Mr. Nikita was to you, so I am very sorry for your loss. Since you had been preparing for this moment for some time, hopefully the pain of the loss of a furry friend will be lessened.
God bless you during this difficult time and best of luck with Miss Elvira taking over. A new chapter. Bright beginnings.
Posted by: SocciWriter | October 25, 2013 at 10:12 PM
The Ballicai and I are sending lots and lots of hugs and purrs.
We're so sorry that precious Mr. Nikita had to go to the Rainbow Bridge, but we know how very deeply loved he was and will always be.
You and Elvira are in our hearts, and we'll be thinking of you.
Posted by: Thomma Lyn | October 25, 2013 at 11:15 PM
It's never easy to say goodbye.
Glad you got to spend time together today.
Take care of yourself and give yourself time. My thoughts are with you
Posted by: Rascal and Rocco | October 25, 2013 at 11:20 PM
We are heartbroken & share your tears.
Please know you are in our hearts & purrayers.
RIP Nikita <3
Posted by: Chesney Cats | October 26, 2013 at 12:42 AM
Farewell Mr Nikita, you were a very fine fellow, a truly grand cat and made the earth a much better place. We are sad that you have gone.
Sending love & Purrs
Mungo & The Ape
Posted by: Everycat | October 26, 2013 at 02:57 AM
We are so sorry to hear that Nikita has taken the walk to Rainbow Bridge and know there would be a large reception committee there to welcome him.
We know you will miss your companion of many years but hope Elvira will give you some comfort.
We are sending you lots of purrs and hope they will help to sustain you at this sad time.
Luv Hannah and Lucy xx xx
Posted by: Hannah and Lucy | October 26, 2013 at 03:23 AM
So sad to see this, but we thought that might be the case when we read your earlier post about handing over the reins to Elvira.
Many hugs, prayers, and purrs heading your way for Daddy Kiril and Miss Elvira!
Fly free, Nikita, and say hello to Uncle Skylar from us. He and you will have some great lengthy conversations, we know!
Posted by: the PDX pride | October 26, 2013 at 04:31 AM
We are so sorry for the loss of a great kitty.
Posted by: Perfectly Parker's Family | October 26, 2013 at 05:14 AM
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Purrs and thoughts of comfort from Ingrid, Allegra and Ruby.
Posted by: Ingrid King | October 26, 2013 at 05:41 AM
All of us at Zee and Zoey's are saddened to hear the news that Mr. Nikita crossed to the Bridge.
His tribute was both sad and uplifting and he had a wonderful life and beautiful spirit.
Purrs of Love...
Posted by: Deb Barnes - Zee and Zoey | October 26, 2013 at 07:43 AM
Blessings to all during this tough time.
You are handling it with grace and poise and even some humor... and you know Nikita would be pleased about that!
Posted by: Veggie Val | October 26, 2013 at 08:21 AM
My sweet friend I am so sorry you have left us but know you will be with all our friends gone before.
We have this dilemma at the moment as well and reading your blog today has somewhat helped a little.
Run free at the bridge sweet friend until we meet again.
Hugs GJ xx
Posted by: Ginger Jasper | October 26, 2013 at 08:46 AM
We just heard the awful news and are so terribly sorry.
We didn't know Nikita as well or as long as many others, but we were touched by him just the same.
You are in our thoughts and prayers
((((hugs))))
Posted by: Caren Gittleman | October 26, 2013 at 10:00 AM
We just heard Kiril!
Made a post commending a life well lived.
Well done my friend.
Prayers for comfort from our home to yours.
Posted by: Pet and TheBengal Brats | October 26, 2013 at 10:15 AM
A really lovely tribute to Nikita, we enjoyed reading it. So sorry for your loss Daddy Kiril and Miss Elvira.
Mindy
Moe
Cookie
Mike
Posted by: Team Tabby | October 26, 2013 at 10:53 AM
My Heart is with you.
My Parents have 2 aging Maine Coons (sisters) who are 13 years old, and I can see the age starting to show.
I think this is a lovely tribute and my thoughts are with you.
Love of love.
Posted by: Heather | October 26, 2013 at 11:16 AM
I'll miss you so much, Mr. Nikita!
I can't believe how much I'll miss you, when we only just "met".
You're so lucky to have a Daddy who is strong enough to let you go when you're ready.
I hope my Mom is as good to me when my time comes.
See you at the Rainbow Bridge some day!
Posted by: Katya Graymalkin | October 26, 2013 at 01:56 PM
O, Daddy Kiril, I's so sorry that Professor Nikita ran off to the Bridge. I's sending purrs and purrayers, lots of them, to you and Ms. Elvira.
At least we have so many of his works left behind to read, I will nefur furget what he wrote for me after trying to find my background and ancestors.
Professor Nikita will be so missed.
Love & Purrs,
KC
Posted by: ML | October 26, 2013 at 02:33 PM
I am so sorry for your loss and know the awful aching emptiness you are feeling.
I hope the love and thoughts of all your friends will help you through this sad time and the months ahead.
(((hugs)))
Posted by: Flynn | October 26, 2013 at 02:39 PM
Condolences and gentle purrs and headbumps to Daddy Kiril and Miss Elvira. We are so very sorry that Mr. Nikita had to leave you.
Run free at the Bridge, handsome Nikita ...
Kaika and the Yosemite cats
Posted by: Trudy | October 26, 2013 at 02:40 PM
We are purring to let Daddy Kiril know that the cats of our world will miss the magnificent Nikita.
Until that day we all meet again in the land of endless sun and fun please watch over us Professor.
Hello and a big Tomcat Welcome to Miss Elvira.
We cannot wait to hear what you have to send forth over the CB.
Timmy Tomcat
Posted by: Timmy Tomcat | October 26, 2013 at 06:04 PM
I am blown away at the tribute, much thought went into it.
I too sensed Nikita's time was coming and you handled it beautifully.
Take time to mourn, it is ok to be sad for he left a really big hole in your heart.
Sending much purrs and prayers from Ritzi and me.
You will see him again and I believe OTRB is not that far.
You have a kitty angel watching over you.
Posted by: Mog | October 26, 2013 at 10:51 PM
We are so sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful tribute to Mr. Nikita.
Posted by: The Zoo | October 27, 2013 at 09:37 AM
This is all so beautiful, Kiril. It touched my heart so, because Nikita and you are much like Fisher and me.
I hope Nikita shows up once in awhile, and I think he will.
It happend to me, and it was such a gift.
I hurt for your pain, but smile for all you and Nikita have - and will always have.
Love and hugs, Jobi and Fisher
Posted by: Jobi and Fisher | October 27, 2013 at 04:21 PM
Hoping my little buddies Fred,Eleanor, Cinder, and Rabbit drop in to visit Nikita when he arrives and that he will find them to be kindred spirits.
You said it all for those of us who love our furry friends.
Posted by: Greta Koehl | October 27, 2013 at 04:37 PM
We will miss you Nikita!! You were one of a Kind and you shall always be in our hearts!!
Love and hugs to Daddy Kiril and Elvira!
Hugs from your TX furiends,
Samantha and Clementine
Posted by: Samantha | October 27, 2013 at 07:47 PM
Dear friends, Daddy Kiril and I wish to thank all who have stopped by, over the past couple of weeks, for your caring thoughts and support, it means a lot to both of us.
Posted by: Elvira Mistress of Felinity | November 06, 2013 at 05:50 PM
Kiril,
We are so sorry to hear about Nikita, your beloved cat and original muse.
Hugs and healing purrs,
Layla and the mancats
Posted by: Layla Morgan Wilde (Cat Wisdom 101.com) | November 10, 2013 at 12:23 AM
Im trying to catch up with all the blogs albit slow .... Im sorry it was Nikita's time to go. I hope your heart is healing and there is a smile on your face?
Mom Laure
Posted by: The Misadventures of Me | November 11, 2013 at 05:59 PM