Oh holy Christmas miracle! My package arrived today from across the country. Inside was one of the sweetest, most thoughtful gifts I've ever received - a stunning portrait of the best cat-friend I could ask for.

Earlier this year, my little fur friend developed a tumor in her snout. I found my cat-soulmate a week or two before graduating college on the streets of campus where it looked like she had been abandoned. I picked her up, searched in vain for her owner for a few weeks and adopted her as my own shortly thereafter.

This kitty moved with me across the country, stayed up late with me during those long nights in grad school, cuddled me through break ups, saw me get my first big job and all the little stuff in between. I've always felt as though I'd have this cat throughout some of the biggest changes of this part of my life so when she got sick, it was really heartbreaking. A couple of months ago, she underwent surgery as the tumor was creating problems with her breathing and blocking her tear ducts. The tumor was found to be benign but there's always a chance it can grow back.

Long story short, my little gal is doing much better now and hopefully stays tumor free for years to come. I actually just paid off her surgery today!!!

Anyways, man_in_psych, your thoughtfulness and generosity have overwhelmed my little heart. Thank you (and your amazingly talented friend!!!) for this gift. I appreciate you.

Also, of course thank you for contributing to my ability to buy goofy shit off Amazon...maybe I will get that hands free blow dryer holder after all! ;)