When the pandemic tightened its grip on the world, we were cast into a period of enforced solitude. Amidst this pause, I found a serendipitous chance to share deeper moments with Romeo (and Kieran), not just within our home but also in nature’s embrace.

The Japanese Garden at Point Defiance, an hour south of Seattle, unfurled like a living tapestry of enchantment. As we meandered through its lush, verdant paths, Romeo immersed himself in the garden’s tranquil beauty, his spirit dancing with the serene surroundings. I followed his boundless curiosity, drawn deeper into nature’s embrace. The setting sun bathed Romeo and the charming footbridge in a golden glow, casting a fleeting yet eternal light that seemed to pause time, creating a cherished memory of pure, suspended magic.

Each memory, wrapped in warmth and tinged with longing, swells in my heart with wistful affection. The cherished moments of our 17 years together linger like timeless whispers, eternally etched in my soul. Though he may be gone from sight, Romeo’s presence remains a gentle echo, forever embracing me in spirit—a testament to a love that transcends time and space.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (27 months)🌈🐾

Aug 14, 2020 | Pt. Defiance Japanese Garden

Grief is the moment I start crying in the middle of a joy-filled event wishing he was here.

- Author Unknown

Every image captured of those who have gone before us possesses a profound ability to awaken treasured memories that hold special significance in our hearts. During this season, the sight of ox-eye daisies never fails to evoke memories of Kieran. Amidst the pandemic's chaos, these daisies flourished uncontrollably, emerging in every corner of the grassy landscapes we traversed like determined weeds, grasping for light and vitality. Over time, they've transformed into symbols of the tender, affectionate moments we shared nestled among them. While they now offer solace, they also serve as emotional triggers, unlocking not just fond memories but also unleashing torrents of tears. As I cherish the comfort they presently bring, these daisies remain bittersweet reminders of our shared joys and sorrows, encapsulating the depth of our connection amidst life's challenges.

#LongRestTheKing #ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (20months)🌈🐾

Hiram M Chittenden Locks Carl S. English Botanical Gardens

Carefully assembling the flock of turkeys, his curiosity (and patience) waned smaller while the audience giggles around us grew audibly louder. The moment Romeo tilted his head a collective awww was heard.

Every Thanksgiving was always delightfully fun whatever we ended up doing together. Not to mention these moments spread a lot of good cheer to all as well. This was one of my favourite happy and silly memories with Romeo.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (17 months)

Captured at Crate & Barrel University Village in Seattle, WA

Romeo was simply stunning amidst the fragrant lavender during our visits to the lavender farms each summer. The farm owners have always been exceptionally kind, letting him roam freely.

I'm thankful that I've captured thousands of images of him, especially in his later years. It's sometimes overwhelming to sift through them all to find the one that truly touches my heart – they all do in their own way.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (25 months)🌈🐾

“We didn’t realise we were making memories, we just knew we’re having fun.” -Winnie the Pooh

Romeo was my lucky charm every day. Everywhere we traveled so many people would do a double take & comment on his stunning big turquoise green eyes. 🍀 I feel incredibly lucky we shared 17 adventurously fun years together, but I sorely miss this handsome glitter-pants.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (21 months)🌈🐾

Promise me you’ll never forget me because if I thought you would, I’d never leave. - Winnie the Pooh

He had the most unforgettable, intense turquoise green eyes that captivated anyone who happened to glance his way. Often out on our adventures, I would hear people exclaim, "THOSE EYES! Are they real?" Romeo's big, beautiful stunning eyes spoke volumes, filled with such emotion and depth whenever they gazed upon me. I would get lost in his eyes and he knew it. I still deeply long for those moments where our eyes would meet, and though he's left me behind 23 months ago, I will never, ever forget him.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (23 months)🌈🐾

July 9, 2020 | Studio Portrait, Seattle, WA

Today would’ve been Romeo’s 20th birthday. And as I reflect, I’m reminded that what truly matters in life isn’t the dates on either end, but the dash in between – and Romeo’s dash (2005–2022) was nothing short of extraordinary.

From the moment he entered the world, he brought joy, mischief, and quiet, steady hope. He gave me purpose, reminding me that life is meant to be lived with love, adventure, and an open heart. Some of my favourite memories are our many cycling adventures; especially along the saltwater edge of the city. Romeo would ride in the basket behind me, head poking out, eager to see where we were headed and inhale the salty sea breeze. The wind tousling his glittery fur, the sunlight warming us both; he was fully present, simply taking in the world as we glided along. Glancing at him in the rearview mirror, eyes bright with curiosity, I’d think: this is how to live.

Romeo didn’t just embrace adventure; he made history. In 2018, he was the only cat to ride in a parade of 405 electric bicycles at Magnuson Park in Seattle, helping set a Guinness World Record. Calm and curious, he sat proudly in his basket like he knew he belonged there. I still wear that T-shirt with quiet pride; we did that together.

He lived for love and shared moments, always by my side when I needed him most. Whether we were trading “chicken cookie” (aka freeze-dried chicken) treats for kitty kisses, sitting quietly together, or wandering through city streets and forest trails with him perched on my shoulders. He was a constant reminder of what really matters: being present, staying connected, and finding joy in the simplest things.

That little dash between the years holds everything; our adventures, our bond, and the love we shared. And for those lucky enough to have known him, we understand how much that small line is truly worth.

Happy birthday, my glitter-pants baby boy! Thank you for teaching me how to live fully and savour every moment. I carry you with me… always.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (34 months)🌈🐾 #20thBirthday

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." – Anatole France

Images have a remarkable ability to evoke cherished memories close to our hearts. One such memory stands out vividly in my mind: an evening cycling with Kieran to our local lighthouse to witness the sunset together. While he was captivated by the crisp sea air laced with salty fragrances, my heart was captured by the sight of him immersed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Sharing the simple joys he found in life was so meaningful to me that I catch myself often deeply yearning for those moments.

#LongRestTheKing #ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (19months)🌈🐾

May 10, 2020 | Discovery Park Lighthouse at sunset with Olympic Mountain range in the distance

Today would’ve marked King Kieran’s 20th earthly birthday. He was my most loving companion, the ultimate cuddle-bug who gave the sweetest kitty kisses, and my gentle giant of a soulmate. His adventurous spirit led us on countless journeys, always by my side, exploring life together.

I have countless photos and videos, each brimming with memories, so many that it’s almost impossible to choose just one. But this moment stands out: a blissful hike beneath Mount Rainier, when the world had come to a standstill, leaving just me and Kieran in quiet solitude. Wildflowers framed him as we walked, and in the soft glow of the evening sunset, I saw how his wild beauty was balanced by his gentle nature. In that peaceful stillness, we were perfectly connected, a bond beyond words.

I’m deeply grateful for how his journey, with all its highs and lows, brought us closer; not just to each other, but to you, our extended family. Your love and support made this journey even more meaningful, and I’m thankful you had the chance to fall in love with him too. The love we shared is timeless; we honour him by carrying his love forward and telling his story to remember him forever.

#LongRestTheKing #ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (30 Months)🌈🐾#20thBirthday

Aug. 19, 2020 | Mount Rainier Nat’l Park

Dancing amongst the dandelions you felt wild and free. Your faint distant cries were heard afar as you began to sprint across the vast meadowlands... turbulently stirring up thousands of the wispy flowers spores behind you while you returned close by my side.

No amount of distance could’ve kept us apart in our earthly life or in spirit. For the past 11 months since you’ve left me behind, I've been patiently waiting for you to run back to me so that I can feel your presence and your love in my dreams.

You are my one and only sunshine who made me happy whenever skies were gray. Sun-kissed daily by your warm ray of light made every day brighter then and always forever. #LongRestTheKing #MonthlyTribute

🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼

"The hardest part wasn't losing you, it was learning to live without you."

Today is about cherishing those we love past and present. Kieran was my beloved feline soulmate. It was so easy to lose myself in these countless blissful moments I painfully miss more than anything now. His kitty kisses was one aspect that defined our loving relationship from the very first time we met until his final moments before he left me behind 16 months ago today. This loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he left behind.

Each of these keepsake photo memories have become treasures of the heart which is a testament to our unbreakable loving bond that will go on forever.

On this Valentine’s Day may your heart be wrapped with love by those dearest to your heart.

#LongRestTheKing #ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (16 months)🌈🐾

Missing someone is your heart's way of reminding you that you love them.

His seductive glances captivated the hearts worldwide. Whenever I lost myself, Romeo’s doting round turquoise green cat eyes grounded me. Life just doesn’t feel the same without my lil’ glitter-pants goober boy.

These monthly missives honour and celebrate Romeo’s remarkably beautiful life while acknowledging my vulnerability with my grief missing him. There’s so much gratitude for what we’ve shared together for his 17 years that I couldn’t possibly do him justice with a few words while remembering him.

Thank you all for the gentle landing you’ve allowed me each month while I learn how to navigate life without Romeo (and Kieran’s) physical presence.

#ForeverMissingYou💕 #MonthlyTribute (20 months)🌈🐾

Taken at REI Flagship Store Downtown Seattle Fireside

This is my monthly tribute shot for the monthly group tribute challenge. The photo i chose to do a tribute to was of a fly, and this instigated my weekend bug hunt!

"These tiny loiterers on the barley's beard,

And happy units of a numerous herd

Of playfellows, the laughing Summer brings,

Mocking the sunshine on their glittering wings,

How merrily they creep, and run, and fly!

No kin they bear to labour's drudgery,

Smoothing the velvet of the pale hedge-rose;

And where they fly for dinner no one knows—

The dew-drops feed them not—they love the shine

Of noon, whose suns may bring them golden wine

All day they're playing in their Sunday dress—

When night reposes, for they can do no less;

Then, to the heath-bell's purple hood they fly,

And like to princes in their slumbers lie,

Secure from rain, and dropping dews, and all,

In silken beds and roomy painted hall.

So merrily they spend their summer-day,

Now in the corn-fields, now in the new-mown hay.

One almost fancies that such happy things,

With coloured hoods and richly burnished wings,

Are fairy folk, in splendid masquerade

Disguised, as if of mortal folk afraid,

Keeping their joyous pranks a mystery still,

Lest glaring day should do their secrets ill."

John Clare - Insects

PLEASE NO GROUP INVITES OR AWARDS WITH FLASHY BADGES