For Jazzy Girl, my sweetest friend
My cat, Jasmine Jarvis, has been with me for 15 years, through moves, milestones, pandemics, and joy. Today, my heart is heavy as yesterday was our last day together here in this world.
Jazzy came into my life as the most perfect Christmas gift. A little adventure with my mom and dad that led us all over Portland in search of the right cat, only to find her back in Lake Oswego at a new cat sanctuary downtown. Someone was holding her, and I remember thinking, that is the sweetest little cutie. They set her down, I picked her up… and I never let her go.
From our tiny studio on 24th and Raleigh, where she learned to love bird watching, to the mid-century oasis where she ruled the cupboards, and gave us all a scare on moving day as she used her flattening skills and hid on the bed when we moved, Jazzy made every space home and more fun. We lived on the water in many different places, like Lava Drive and Waverly Place, and eventually moved to Pigeon Point in Seattle. That first night there, we had nothing but an air mattress, which she popped in 30 seconds flat. I was homesick and scared about starting something new but she curled up on top of me, reminding me I wasn’t alone and we could do anything, she was my home. I think her favorite spot was Beach Drive, where she whale watched and enjoyed the sounds of the crashing waves. Jazzy girl made my house home and that gap will be felt.
She’s taught me so much. She was truly smart. She could sit, high five, pirouette, reverse, lead me to her bowl, and always knew when it was time to get cozy. She loved Nong’s poached chicken, her troll toy, soccer balls, and showing off all her tricks to earn a treat.
She played hard to get with Zack (which I loved). Watching these two bond was special. He was so caring to her and I’m thankful to have him as comfort in this heartache.
She loved having Reed watch her when I was gone and saying hi when they visited us in Seattle. She loved messing with my Dads feet. She loved FaceTiming with my Mom. She was excited for Macey and Reed to welcome Lucy into our world. She was my best friend during the pandemic, keeping me safe when I couldn’t be with the people I love. She was so special.
Letting go is the hardest thing. But I’m endlessly grateful for the years we shared, the lessons she gave, and the love she poured into my life. Her soft fur and sweet purr may leave this world, but her spirit will never be far.
Thank you, Jazzy Girl, for choosing me. I miss you deeply already.