It's amazing how much an animal can change your life. Each day is pretty much like the next, and then you find yourself entranced by a pair of big green eyes and a fluffy tail. Such a thing has happened to me. Perhaps it’s “lame” to write about your cat, but my cat isn’t just a cat to me. Before you go assuming, no I don’t dress her up in sweaters and dresses or carry her in a purse like some people do. I don’t look at her as though she is my child. (Well, not quite). Rather, it’s like this: my four-legged friend is just that—my friend.

I met her in an animal shelter. My husband and I decided that we wanted something furry that we could love and who would love us in return. When we saw her, I immediately fell in love. It may sound cliché, but it’s the truth. Her green eyes bore into mine and seemed to beg, “Take me home.” I held my hand out to her and she nudged me with her nose, asking me to pet her. She even let me pick her up. As I held her, I felt how soft she was. I felt her softly purring. I admired her pretty tortoiseshell coloring. My heart was melting quickly. My husband could see how much I wanted to take her home, but we decided to think on it some more before committing to her. It didn’t take long to decide that we would indeed take her home.

She warmed up to us almost immediately. Oh, she was shy when first arriving at home. She did the usual sniffing and exploring every nook and cranny, like cats do. When she had had enough exploring, she hid under the bed. But when we called her, she immediately came out to see us. She was so happy to be in a home, as I could tell when I woke up with her sitting on my face.

Belle is a quirky, kooky kitty that loves to be the center of attention. Often times, I’ll find her racing from room to room chasing dust balls or whatever other toy she can find. She’s the first cat that I’ve ever seen to try to catch her own tail. She’s the worst beggar I’ve ever seen… Whenever there is food around she gets as close as she can. Then she gives you her big eyes, and she cocks her head to the side as if to say, “I’m cute. Please give me food?” But she’s a thief as well. (She once stole a meatball from the kitchen counter!) She makes a good lap warmer, and enjoys being one also. She hates to be alone… she’ll follow me almost everywhere. Sometimes I find her waiting for me sitting outside by the bathroom. Belle makes me laugh, and it warms my heart to know that I have someone furry to love, and who loves me back. Without her, I would feel lonely. I’m so glad that this wacky, green-eyed beggar has come into my life.

It just goes to show that God has a purpose for giving us animals. They add so much joy to your life. They truly can become friends.