Name: Rio

DOB: 7/28/88    DOD: 8/1/04

Likes: Anything she dang well pleases...

Dislikes: Anything she dang well doesn't...

Rio (aka "the grey ghost") was the first to arrive... through the mists of Avalon, escaping a fate worse than death, along the brambled path of Indian Head Hwy... she was one of my best friends, truest confidants, and constant companions since 1986. She WAS my familiar.

She was the head of the house, reigning supreme in the Emerald City. She let few into her circle of friends and had no compunction against telling you how she felt if she simply didn't like you. If she found you vile, she made it clear (in NO uncertain terms) that you're no longer welcome in HER home.

Rio and me... Christmas 2001...

Chilling in the sun on moving day...

She took to Dave immediately! She loved my mother and forced her presence on "the mama" (who doesn't really like cats but had a great affection for the grey ghost). She was also quite smitten with Dave's sister, Kathy, who indulged the cats with their cat-snacks :)

Rio was a pure-bred Korat (or Thai temple cat). They were given as a means of good luck and are a treasure in their native country. Known for an expansive lifespan, 20 to 24 years is not uncommon (the old lady made it to 18... no small task for the little cat). The Korats have an unmatched grey coat with silver tippings (and are double-coated, though it is difficult to tell). The green eyes and the voice... what a voice! Rio was exceedingly talkative and must know all that is going on... and have her say in it. If I had to select a fictional character for her it would be Lady Catherine de Burgh from Pride and Prejudice.

Korats are also exceedingly loyal and are not prone to the "aloof" behavior that can be the trademark of other cats. She is a true "people" cat.

Rio flew in the cabin with me during our move... and she wasn't a fearless flier. While she didn't make a sound, she continually "head butted" me thru the side of the Samsonite carrier. She also knew every stick of furniture in the house, and during a move she remained vigilant in her inventory duties! As she saw it, it all belonged to her...

In the last year of her life, she went completely deaf and slowed down to an almost crawl... except when the garage door opened! She passed peacefully in her sleep, curled up on a favorite blanket. After Daisy, there will be no more cats for me... Rio was truly one of a kind...

Guarding her dad...
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