Kismet returned each evening around 9:00pm to eat and play with Merlin. We would wait expectantly to see her, in hopes that she would return day after day. Even though she was eating well at our home, she still looked very thin. I was desperate to get her indoors where she could receive the attention she needed and away from the dangers of living on her own. Despite all efforts to approach her slowly and calmly, Kismet would not allow us to get close. It was at that point, that I was determined to win her over. Each evening after dinner and playtime, she would get sleepy and perch on top of the patio cover for a snooze. I would talk softly to her, in hopes that she would get used to the sound of my voice and more comfortable with my presence. For nearly two weeks I continued my "one on one" talks with Kis, until one evening she finally let me get close enough to catch her.
Kismet was in worse shape that I had originally thought. Even though she was approximately 3 months old at the time, she looked much smaller than normal. Her cheeks were sunken, her neck was about 1 1/2" in diameter and she was covered in fleas. I made a place for her in my room where she would feel safe complete with litter tray, food and water bowls. I spent some time each day loving on her and removing the fleas, but Kismet preferred to spend most of her time eating and napping under my dresser. She still didn't feel comfortable enough in her new home to sleep in the open or approach me voluntarily. However, one evening as I was slowly drifting off to sleep, I felt a little nudge in the small of my back. As I slowly looked over my shoulder, there was Kismet curled up next to me - gazing deeply into my eyes. I just slowly laid my head back down and smiled. In the process of trying to earn Kis's trust, she had won my heart.
Kismet continued to improve day by day, gaining weight and growing more confident in her home. Our bond continued to grow over time, becoming something more deep and profound than I ever thought possible. Through the many stages of my life, Kis has been there by my side, providing me with companionship and unconditional love ... and it all began so unexpectedily on a warm summer evening,13 years ago.
Modified: 09/22/04
Ellen & Kismet