Happy Birthday, 9!!!

Yes, indeed. Today is 9's 5th birthday. I cannot believe it. My sweet, cuddly, purring little darling is still kitten-like and just so wonderful. 9 is a true balm for my soul. He reads my moods and knows exactly what to do. When I work from home, he figures that I missed him so much that I couldn't go to work and therefore, he simply must sit in my lap and get as much attention as I can give him. I love this boy so much and I am so very grateful that I adopted him... or rather, he chose me as his person.

Let's take a look at this boy over the years.

Here is 9's first official portrait. His coat and markings were so very light back then. I adopted him when he was about 5 months old. Not too tiny. He was the perfect size to hug.

The Brave slayer of the Evil Feather toy. 9 showed me here how he liked to play fetch. He still does on occasion. Makes me wish I was home more often so I could see his antics.

Here is 9 while we were living with my parents, aged about 1 year and 4 months. His coat and markings had really darkened by then.

Here is his official 2011 old portrait.

Snoozing with Chani. This doesn't happen much anymore, unless I am sitting on the couch and they share my legs. It's kind of sad, but I think Chani might be happier.

Hanging with his brother who is much more willing to play than with sister, Chani.

And here is the portrait I took this morning. 9 let me cuddle and hug him. And tonight, we shall all celebrate with tuna.

Happy 5th Birthday, 9. Many happy returns!