The Cat That Wanders by Itself

As long as I have a cat, I have a good, trusted friend. That friend may be a little quirky or opinionated, but it's one that's always by my side. Nyda and I shared a special bond and love. She entertained me with her behavior, and I put up with her disappearing for weeks at a time. She was an unusual calico cat, an expert on life, with intelligence, dignity, and playfulness in equal proportion. She understood when to be sweet and charming and when to ignore everything, when to be independent and strong and when to cuddle up to me. Amusing, impulsive, and often unpredictable, she lived on the edge, exploring every opportunity and taking risks, believing that there must be more than nine lives. I wrote this story as a tribute to her adventurous life. My hope is that readers will see how unique Nyda was-a loyal and caring companion, a brave explorer and lucky survivor, a free spirit that wandered many places but was always in my heart.