In 2008 while I was deployed in Kandahar, I decided I would adopt a cat when I returned home, and began looking at Calgary animal rescues. After looking at the adoptable cats on ARF’s page, I decided to adopt a shy cat who might have trouble finding a family. When I returned to Canada, I put in an application for a shy 1.5 year old calico named Mandalay. She was very skittish, and it was doubtful if she’d ever be a lap cat, but I knew she was the one and she came home with me just before new years 2008. I renamed her Tex and she was extremely shy, hiding any time visitors came over but slowly began to trust me.
She is such a gentle soul and never goes after the fish or birds. She even napped next to a pair of birds as they raised their babies on my balcony a few years ago. Her favorite past time is sunning herself on the catio in the summer, and her family now includes two kitty siblings, Molly(3) from Meow foundation, and B.B. (1) an adopted street kitty. Now in her senior years, Tex (15) is still making strides improving her shyness, allowing friends and family to give her pets and treats. She’s a blessing who makes every day brighter and I’m thankful every day that I have her in my family ❤️
