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“...the insulating layer, each strand of which marries the texture of a dandelion seed with a fine grade of goose down.” So much beauty in this essay, including its resistance to a tidy conclusion.

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Thank you, Rona, for your kind words. I hope I write as honestly as possible. Life is messy, and I think the real job of a writer is to acknowledge and honor that. In other words, ask the question, “ What am I seeing? What else is there?”

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Being the quintessential cat person, this got me by the short hairs. Woven in so gracefully is the arc of losing your husband. There are poetic flourishes throughout.

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New Word Order, I am so sorry I missed your comment! A belated thank you for your kind words. Cats are amazing. It’s impossible to imagine life without them. Mini is with me right now. She’s a true companion.😽❤️

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You’re writing is so full of heart and simply just wow! I don’t know how you blended charismatic Mini (even at 100 they are our babies) and the honoring of your husbands life with the smoothness of a soft serve ice cream but you did. I’m so sorry for your loss. Can’t wait to read your other work!

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Brunette, I don’t know how I missed your comment! I’m honored by your kindness, your generous words. Thank you so much for being here,🙏❤️

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Oh Mary...the best kind of writing gives both tears and laughter. And your ability to share grief with the mice and the tattoo man and your bank account... weaving words and thoughts so perfectly and poignantly. I’m in awe of your talent, in tears for the pain I can feel, my friend. I will share

as soon as I pull myself together.

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Joan, I woke up , reached for my phone, and your comment was the first thing I saw. I’m in tears now myself. I’m so pleased and honored that you like my work. It means the world to me. ❤️

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Maybe I feel more because I’ve been in your shoes... I’m a pretty sensitive gal anyway. Being a reporter, teacher and writing coach all my life means nothing as I learn how to improve an better my writing from people like you and others here on Substack. Did you get my recent email? Send me a note sometime...love to know where you are exactly in our Great Lakes ! 😊

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Although I never had an affinity for cats, I can’t help but find yours adorable. But then it takes no special effort, no empathy, no great compassion to feel a connection to one of God’s creatures.

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Thank you, Bob. I feel as if Mini is not just one of God’s creatures, she’s one of his angels. She’s a true blessing to me.

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I am so happy for the two of you.

I think she COULD be one of his angels because my understanding is that God‘s angels take whatever form is necessary to get the job done. Looks like she’s getting the job done.

It is helpful to me to remember that angels get all of their beauty from God. Without him, nothing would be beautiful.

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deletedApr 26Liked by Mary Roblyn
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Oh, Loreal, I’m glad you enjoyed this story. Mini is such a treasure to me. I’m blessed to have her.

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