The day our laps felt a little bit colder

This was a hard one to write. And I know some people will say, “It’s just a cat”. We all know that is never the case.

 It is with the heaviest of hearts and a lot of stray ginger fur on our clothing, bedding and pretty much every piece of furniture, that we share some sad news: our beloved ginger beastie, Monty, has passed away.

For those who visited our home or tuned in to our streams, Monty wasn’t just a pet; he was a founding member of the team, one of the OG’s. He was the only one of us who could sleep through an animated Story Session or a Scotsman roaring at a computer game that was kicking his ass, unless, of course, that treat box rattled, and then he would immediately give you his full attention.

More Than Just a "Mouser."

Monty joined us eight years ago, and he quickly made it clear that his job description didn't involve catching mice—it involved catching hearts. He had just been through a rough time, he had just healed from surgery after his jaw had been broken, he was timid, nervous and scared. And all we saw was a big, beautiful beastie who needed time and lots of love. It was a no-brainer, and we adopted him that day.  

It took time, but it wasn’t that long before he was “helping” rearrange my studio desk when looking for drive by pampers or keeping my keyboard warm on those colder days. Monty had a special way of making the workday feel a little less like work.

A Few of Monty’s Favourite Things

To honour his memory, I wanted to share the things that made him the legend he was:

• None shall Pass: We have a narrow staircase, and Monty knew exactly when the light hit the perfect step, zero cares given if this meant you had to double step over him.

• Surprise: Monty was a Polydactyl Cat. He had thumbs. This meant you never knew what was safe. Doors and drawers were not a problem for this boy. It meant he could scare the socks off you, especially if you had closed a door enough for a normal animal to be unable to open. Just to have it slowly creak open next to you in the middle of the night.

• The Snack Tax: This boy loved his food. If you opened a bag of chips or made some popcorn, Monty was there. He didn't even want the chips; he just wanted to be included in the transaction. However, the looks you would get if the popcorn wasn’t handed over…

• The "Head-Bump" Greeting: The thing I miss the most. It was our morning, afternoon and evening ritual. And they were the best, a firm, loving head-butt that he would hold against you for an age. Purring all the while.

A Quieter Place

The house and studio feel a little too still in the mornings. There’s no thud of heavy paws on the stairs, no loud deep meow like murs as he tries to find out where we are; the "grey sofa" in the studio has an empty spot where once it would be filled with vivid orange.

Monty taught us a lot about slowing down, taking breaks, and the importance of a well-timed purr. He reminded me that even in a world of stories, client bookings and recording equipment, there is always room to stop, breathe and enjoy a snuggle or head-bump.

"He was the heartbeat of our home. We didn't just rescue a cat; we found a friend who reminded us to be human."

Travel on, my beautiful Boy, seek out those adventures and always remember to stop by for a head bump. You will always be missed.