I like Renee's comment about pets being family and friends. I agree! In my best human relationships the care giving, love and support goes both ways, and it works that way with my girls (two cats) too. I've been loving one since she was a kitten, and she's been loving me back for a long time. She's been there when times were tough mentally and emotionally. She's not always the easiest friend to care for, because she has her own moods and sometimes that means she's stand-offish or seemingly mean. But I've come to understand her and give and accept love in ways that work for her, just as she has for me. Even though occasionally she'll get ornery and swat me, I still feel that she is my most precious, beautiful friend and I'm so grateful to have her in my life. She's a treasure. Even though she's 15 I'm still "learning" her, and learning from her. So many life lessons inherent in our relationship!
The newer addition to my family is completely different in temperament and I love her as well. She's kind and cuddly, curious and bold. And, even though I've known her for only a few years, she's still my sweetheart. She also gives me love, comfort and support in ways that work for her and, in turn, I put up with her sneezing on me all the time!
