Remembering Fergus

The day that Fergus died, ironically, Liam and I were delayed getting home because we went to the store to pick up cat food for him. We bought a lot because we finally found a kind he liked and he was eating it up.

Today, Doug and Liam and I took his food, snacks and litter to a no-kill center nearby. They seemed very grateful for the donation. Surprisingly, seeing all those cats didn't bother me too much - maybe because they were nothing like Fergus.

Next, we're going to find someplace that will take his heart medication, and the huge cat tree that Fergus still used occasionally, even after the second bloot clot made one of his legs a little gimpy.

Next, Doug and I will set up a charitable contribution through the Combined Federal Campaign in Fergus' memory, just like I did last year for Tiger.

Next, I have to get used to Fergus not waiting at the door for me when I get home, and the thousand other things that constantly, painfully, remind me that he's gone - one by one.

Goodbye, Fergus

I'm sad to say that our cat Fergus died yesterday. It happened shortly before we arrived home, and it seemed as though it was pretty quick. Fergus had been living on borrowed time for almost two years, since he developed a blood clot and the first vet we took him to recommended euthanizing him (luckily, we got a second opinion). Except for the clot and a subsequent recurrence last year, Fergus was able to live a normal life up until the moment he died, and actually seemed healthier and happier since starting heart medication.

We got Fergus as a kitten, and he lived with us for almost twelve wonderful years before we lost him. He joins our other cat, Tiger (who died last year at age 20) in our memories and our hearts. We love you so much, my handsome boy.

Beer Journal Entry #1

Hook & Ladder Brewing Company Backdraft Brown
(www.hookandladderbeer.com)

On the bottle: “Smooth, refreshing and loaded with flavor. Specialty malts balanced with just the right amount of Cascade hops give it a roasted taste and beautiful brown color”

Not as interesting as my favored Indian Brown Ale at Dogfish Head, but very drinkable, and perhaps more accessible for those accustomed to drinking lighter beers. A little light on the roasted flavor, but hops are balanced and don’t overpower. Also less body than I would normally expect from a Brown. However, it’s possibly a better choice with a lighter dish than a traditional Brown. Also a Maryland brew, certainly another point in its favor. Another plus: a portion of profits go to support their firefighter burn foundation.

Tara has a Blog!

I couldn't resist any longer.

Here I am, for all to see. I can't guarantee that what I have to say will be interesting to anyone, beyond my friends (and maybe not even them), but what the hey.

What will I write about?

I am a big science geek at heart, so I expect that there will be a few items related to science and especially biotechnology. I'm also an avid beer drinker, and realized that a blog might be a good way to remind myself about the variety of beers that I have sampled. My reading level has been pitiful lately, but if I read an especially good (or bad) book, I'll be sure to let you know, too.