Today we lost Bootsy, our lodge cat. As most of you know she was much more than that though...
Yesterday, Thanksgiving Day, Bootsy was up in the parking lot where Bryson's Food Store is and was hit by a truck that didn't even stop to check on her. I want to hope that they didnt know they had hit her. I don’t know why she went all the way up there! I have never known her to leave the lodge property before.
Luckily, a lady and her daughter found her and saw that she was our cat from her collar. Ginger, from the front desk, rushed up there and got her and brought her back to the lobby at the lodge and called me. Bootsy was in pain and shock when I got there but she seemed comforted that I was there with her. She was alert and wanted to move around, but she couldn't. Being Thanksgiving Day, veterinarians were hard to find but thankfully her vet, Dr. Amy Patterson came to her rescue! Dr. Amy thought that she had a broken pelvis and that she could make a full recovery over time although sometime during the night Bootsy passed away.
This afternoon, Salvador, Natalie, Olive and I buried Bootsy behind the pavilion. It's a sunny, cool fall day today and I kept looking in all of her "spots" around the property thinking I would see her. I could picture her lying on the warm asphalt in the sunshine all curled up or on the front desk under the light. As we were walking back into the lobby Natalie noticed the little bed in the pine straw that she had made by our lobby door in the flower bed last week. I had posted that picture on Facebook.
Bootsy was about 12 or 13 years old we think. She "adopted" us 10 years ago and she has added so much to our lodge over the years. Bootsy brought so much to our lodge and she will be greatly missed by us and also many of you. I have heard so many stories of how Bootsy "slept in our room" or "followed us around the property", etc. Bootsy was not your “typical” cat by any means. Bootsy was a little’ celebrity” and would get emails, letters and Christmas presents, etc.
We would love to hear your stories about how special Bootsy was to your family and your visits to Highlands. Please add to our blog so we all can share our stories.
Al, Renee, Jamie, Alli & Natalie, Ginger, Cindy
Goodbye
With heavy hearts; and a tear in our eyes
after all these years; we must say goodbye
Please understand; we've done all we could
if there was anything we could do; you know we would
I'm sitting right here; gently rub your ears
while I talk to you softly; trying to hold back the tears
The memories you gave us; we'll never forget
especially the ones; of the day we all met
One last hug; and one last kiss
you have no idea; how much you'll be missed
To look into your eyes; this one last time
you tell me it's ok; you know it's your time
Close your eyes now; and go to sleep
we'll pray to the Lord; you're soul he'll keep
Go in peace now; our good friend
we'll stay right here with you; until the end
Dream of that special day and time
when we'll meet at the Bridge; and all will be fine
We'll run and play; side by side
with a soft warm feeling; deep down inside
Your memory will live on; in each one of us
you'll always be number 1; to all of us
Have a safe journey; through the night
I promise when you awake; you'll be in God's light
So with heavy hearts; and tears in our eyes
just for now my friend; we say goodbye
John Quealy
I remember back in 2003 staying there with girlfriend (now wife). We saw Bootsy and asked the staff about that cat, who's it was and liked seeing her when we came year after year. When we became husband and wife, we even named our first dog, Boots. Your beloved cat will be missed and we all know the memories will live on.
ReplyDeleteMy family has been coming to Mitchell's Lodge for many years, and my children would make sure to bring treats for Bootsy. Bootsy, you will be missed!
ReplyDeletelyerlys said...Bootsy was so sweet. I'm so sad that she died:(
ReplyDeleteBootsy loved to play in the snow. You are the most loved cat. Bootsy was almost as handsome as our cat Harry
From the Lyerlys
Bootsy was a great cat. Yes, she spent time in our room and we had a lot of fun playing with her. The kids brought her back treats from the store. Sorry for your sadness and loss, she will be missed.
ReplyDeleteThis post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteI am SO sorry to hear about Bootsie. My heart goes out to all of you!! It is just so sad to have happened at all and then at Thanksgiving. The only consolation are the good memories of her and Al wrote a beautiful tribute to her. Yes, they will always be in our hearts forever. Please give everyone our condolences.
Love, Dora and Bob
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteOh No! This is just SO sad. My heart aches for all who knew and loved Bootsie. I remember her well and know she'll be missed.
As I read the blog....tears were streaming down my face.....still are.
xoxo Paula
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteOh Margaret, I am so sad to hear about Bootsie. What a horrible way for her to die.
I read the blog and it is such a wonderful tribute to a celebrity cat! She was one lucky cat to find a home at the lodge and be adored by so many.
We all love our fur babies. Take care, Nancie
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteWe will miss her quiet, friendly presence at the Lodge. She always visited us on our stays.
Marianne and Frank Gurley
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteDear Al and Family, staff & friends~~
Though, we do not "blog", I hope you will accept our deepest condolences for the loss of your beloved Bootsy. It is a sad day for all of us who knew your lovely "feline daughter."
Although, we are dog lovers, we certainly found a special place in the album of our hearts for Bootsy....we came to be fond of her on our first visit to Mitchell's and looked forward to her welcoming us "home" on our continued stays at the Lodge.
May all the happy memories of your beloved cat, bring you peace, and be the salve to heal your broken hearts.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
With sincere sympathy,
Tom and Trudi Hodgson
A poem gift for you......................
I LOVED YOU BEST
By Jim Willis, 2002
So this is where we part, My Friend,
and you'll run on, around the bend,
gone from sight, but not from mind,
new pleasures there you'll surely find.
I will go on, I'll find the strength,
life measures quality, not its length.
One long embrace before you leave,
share one last look, before I grieve.
There are others, that much is true,
but they be they, and they aren't you.
And I, fair, impartial, or so I thought,
will remember well all you've taught.
Your place I'll hold, you will be missed,
the fur I stroked, the nose I kissed.
And as you journey to your final rest,
take with you this...I loved you best
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteWere so sorry to here about Bootsy, she was always
the first to greet us over the years. She will be missed by all.
What she might tell you now
A Letter From Your Pet In Heaven
To my dearest family,
some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know,
that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from the Bridge.
Here I dwell with God above.
Here there's no more tears of sadness.
Here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy
just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you
every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you
when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me
and He said, "I welcome you.
It's good to have you back again,
you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family,
They'll be here later on."
God gave me a list of things,
that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list,
was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night
the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you...
in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth,
and all those loving years,
because you are only human,
they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry:
it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers,
unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you
all that God has planned.
If I were to tell you,
you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain,
though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now,
than I ever was before.
There are rocky roads ahead of you
and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it
by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy
and I'd like it for you too;
That as you give unto the world,
the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody
who's in sorrow and pain;
Then you can say to God at night...
"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented...
that my life was worthwhile.
Knowing as I passed along
I made somebody smile.
God says: "If you meet somebody
who is sad and feeling low;
Just lend a hand to pick him up,
as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street
with me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps
only half a step behind."
"And when it's time for you to go...
from that body to be free.
Remember you're not going...
you're coming here to me."
-Author Unknown
Alan Diane and Bella Kaminsky
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to get the news about Bootsy. The first time I saw her, at check in only a few weeks ago, she was sprawled out on her back atop the front desk, perfectly relaxed and perfectly at home, as though waiting for a tummy rub. Hmmmm, I thought, this cat has status around here. And deservedly so. Kudos to all of you for giving her such a wonderful life.
Doug Weaver
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry! Bootsy napping in the sun always made us feel so at home!
Anne and Jay Hughes
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Bootsy. She will be missed as she was always "on duty" accepting strangers as her friends, when I stayed at Mitchell's.
My deepest sympathies,
Barb
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteOh, we are so sorry about Bootsy. When we had come up at the end of March, so our son could go snow tubing we met Bootsy. She liked to watch every thing that was going on.She was very sweet.
_The Crayne Family
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteI did not know Bootsy although perhaps I have seen her in my stays there. However, I can clearly see that she was well loved. Today whether human or cat that is a wonderful thing for the receiver. So therefore, I can conclude she lived a good life. Take comfort in that and that you were able to offer her that even thru the pain as a result of her tragic accident.
You have my sincere sympathy.
Ron Holt
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests:
ReplyDeleteWe are so saddened to hear about Bootsy. We were so relieved yesterday to here she would recover that it surprised us that she passed away. She must have had internal injuries, too
It will seem odd not to see her lounging on the desk and hanging around the lodge.
For those of us that treat our pets like one of the family, it is especially difficult to lose one.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers
John and Mary Ann Carney
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteHi,
I am so sorry that you lost your beloved Bootsy! We lost our Cinnamon 2 yrs. ago & even though we have 2 other kitties we still miss "our boy." I won't go on & on. Just wanted you to know that we feel your loss as well.
Marianne & Tara
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry to hear about Bootsy. A special cat is VERY special! We've only been to your place once, but I do remember meeting Bootsy. I think she was on your front desk when we checked in. RIP, Bootsy!
Fran & Tom Morley
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh no! The tears are flowing! :(
Donna Eaton
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteAl, so sorry. :-(
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe have stayed at Mitchell's before, and we did not know Bootsy, but the loss of a pet is always hard. We are sorry for your loss as we love all pets.
Dan & Debbie Hackett
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am sitting here crying and with a very heavy heart after reading about my friend Bootsy.
When we visited Mitchell's for the first time in Oct 2010, I had the honor of meeting Bootsy.
She slept with us, followed us around, gave us the full tour of the place and made our stay feel like we were at home with our 4 cats.
I would worry about where she might be at night when I couldn't find her. Little did I know that she was two timing me with Salvador.
She was charming and smart and very loving to all that had the pleasure of meeting her.
This animal lover can only hope that another wonderful cat in need of love and companionship stumbles into the lodge and into the hearts of the fine staff at Mitchell's one day.
To the owners, staff and especially Salvador, you are in my thoughts and have my deepest sympathies.
Bootsy you were and are still the best! I will miss you deeply my friend.
Julie Hamilton
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh! Can not believe she went all the way to Brysons. My friend and I stayed there in April of this year. Bootsy was my buddy. We built a fire in our fireplace and sat on the couch with Bootsy on the top of the couch. I enjoyed the area so much that I spent four months this summer in Cashiers. Hope to be back next year. I have a big soft spot for animals and my love and prayers go out to all of you. This must be really hard for you.
Juli B.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about Bootsy.
Bootsy would come sit on our laps and always welcomed us to the Lodge.
Mark and Karen Larrabee
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteCondolences from the WattsFamily.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry for your loss. Darlene Wakefield
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss, I know how sad it is when a beloved pet passes away. My sympathies and condolences to all of you, she will be missed.
Happy Holidays,
Rosalind Hoffmann
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteHaving lost our dog of 15 years not too long ago we know your pain. Our new adopted dog has visited you with us over the last couple of years. Our pets are like our children and so special. I am so sorry for your loss and pain...keep those good memories!
Love, The Robertsons
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSooooooo sorry to hear about Bootsy! She was like a welcoming committee all by herself. When we came out in the morning, she came to visit. Just a quick greeting & then off she went to check on other things.
We are surprised that she was up so far away from you,we never saw her anywhere other than on the property. Who ever hit her,hopefully,but not likely,(unless it was a big truck),know they had hit her. When word gets around town,as I know it will, someone will feel their own pain & guilt,rest assured.
Our sympathy to ALL of you,
Dennis & Debbie Dinan
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this kind of news. Yes, Bootsy was definitely a special cat!! We lost our cat four years ago which was also twelve years old, and we still grieve for her. It is so amazing how attached we can get to our pets. We certainly feel your grief at this time, and we will certainly miss her also when we come to visit again. Bootsy was very special to everyone!! Thanks for letting us know.
Linda Atkins
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry and saddened by this and will miss her terribly when we visit again soon but thank you for sharing the news.
Wes, Tammy, Addie, Jack, Aiden and Bryan
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear this. She certainly was a fixture at the lodge.
Ernie & Judy Menet
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss.....have been there twice this year and saw her.......so sorry......C. Minish
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe were in Highlands last Saturday night (Nov. 18) at your place. Sunday morning we made Bootsy''s acquaintance over breakfast. She was so regal the way she sat on the desk and greeted guests coming in. We hit it off well, and she accompanied us back to our room while we packed and loaded the car. When it came time to shut the door and turn in our key, Bootsy was relaxed and reclining on our bed, where she had watched us pack up. She would have been content to stay there, but I didn't know how long it was going to be before someone came in to clean, so my last act was to go back in and tell Bootsy that she would have to go back to the office. She understood but didn't budge. So, I had to physically pick her up and scoot her out. She calmly left and began walking the sidewalk in front of all the rooms. My husband and I commented on what a friendly and unique cat she was, and we wondered out loud how many families over the years have had Bootsy come into their rooms for a visit. I'm so sad to hear of her passing, but I'm glad we got a glimpse of her congenial and gentle spirit.
Richard and Julie Nance
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear of your loss!
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about Bootsy. Thanks for letting us know.
Steven H.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteIt saddens me to hear this news. During one of our stays, I walked into my room to get something out of my suitcase. As I looked into it there she was. All curled up, happy and content. And, of I let her sleep there as long as she wanted to. She was wonderful company. We will miss our visits with her.
Christi Allgood
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh, I am so, so sad. Bootsy was the best cat. Bless her heart, she will be missed.
Lisa
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh my! My heart is broken. We were just there in September and our family LOVED Bootsie. We all have pictures with her and she made our stay. She was very special! Thank you so much for letting everyone know. My family will be very sad to hear the news, but we happy that we had the pleasure of making her acquaintance.
Susan Silsbee
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kindness of letting us know
Happy thanksgiving
The Bills Family
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sorry about Bootsy,your cat. I lived alone for several years after my wife passed away. A solid snow white cat started hanging about my yard some time later. He got sick. I took him to the Vet here.(Stringer Animal Hospital) . They got him well. He stayed as my friend. Always met me as I came in from any trip,etc. Came home one day--it appeared a pack of dogs or something had cornered and killed him. I miss my wife very much. I named him "Whitey". He seemed to understand - now I miss them both. However, he did put som good memories in that time frame. I still do my morning walks. He went with me - right at my feet. My walks help mentally and physically as we are all told exercise does. Does'nt seem the same without Whitey though. Stay healthy - walk,etc. but get you a Whitey to go along.or a Fido if you prefer. I may one day find another wife and get another "Whitey" to walk with us. Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving. Have'nt stayed at your lodge yet but hope to see you soon. Thanks for the newsletters. God Bless
David Getsinger
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this. Its been years since we stayed at your lodge but I think I remember seeing Bootsy. May she RIP.
Donna Jue
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteLong live Bootsy!
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of Bootsy's passing. I brought tears to my eyes to read about what happened to her. Please find comfort in her memories and the happiness she brought to you and your staff and family and to all who passed through your front door and got to see her in your lobby. My family and I have stayed with you in years past and hope to be able to stay again soon. Take care.
Fondly,
Kathleen, Larry, Chloe' and Lacey Tragesser
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteVery sorry to hear that. I think we must have seen her when we stayed there.
Two of my all-time favorite cats were killed that way.
--- Paul Darst
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteJust read about Bootsy. Mike and I are so sad to hear this news. The first visit we were there in Oct 2010 we met her. When we came back this year in July that was the first thing we looked for. To see the lodge cat laying around. There she was. We talked to her every day. We are animal lovers.
We will miss Bootsy our next visit. but we will never forget her. Always so sad to loose a beloved animal friend. God bless.
Connie >^..^<
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI'm very sorry to hear about Bootsy.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteHi Natalie,
I know how heartbroken I feel so I know you guys are really hurting. I can't imagine life without her soft little body curled up on the desk and on the credit card machine. She brought so much love to everyone! She certainly leaves behind a legacy of smiles and love. I'm sure I will always still look for her whenever I'm there. She will live forever in our hearts.
<>
Donna
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeletePets are such a vital part of our lives. They always offer love and complain for nothing. I am very sorry for your loss as I understand how it feels to lose such a special member of family.
Beverly
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteFrom our stay 3/20/2008
So very sorry to hear of your loss of precious Bootsy.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear of Bootsy's untimely loss. Our sympaythies to the all at Mitchell's!
Bob and Trisha Kieltyka
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry about Bootsy.....
Christine M. Devoe
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteGinger and everyone, we were so sorry to hear about your loss. John and I are scheduled to come in on May 31 for a wedding (Oak Cottage) and were very much looking forward to spending time with Bootsy. We are cat people, having 5 (6 until a short while ago) of our own. We never met Bootsy, but I still cried when I read your email. We know the joy our pets bring us and feel your sorrow. We hope you find comfort in all the good memories during this difficult time.
Fondly,
Sally & John White
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing and keeping me on your list. I have missed my visits to Highlands and the lodge. Believe me I have not come because my family is grown and I can't find singles that can afford a trip. It is difficult to stay awake alone for a long trip. I never mind driving but I do get sleepy.
I was moved to tears by your touching story of Bootsy. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Have a prosperous year in 2012 and a Merry Christmas, Patricia
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about Bootsy. I told my oldest daughter and she was upset. She was a cool cat. She wasn't scared of anyone. I have picture I will email on Tues.
Brandy
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe are so sad to hear about Bootsy. When we checked out this past Tuesday morning,
she was curled up on the sofa in the office, enjoying the newly set up Christmas tree.
We will certainly missed the self-appointed Princess of the lodge. Our condolences
to you all.
Holly and John Hull
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sad to hear abour Bootsy. We only briefly met her once on a visit, yet as an animal lover it is sad to loose a beloved friend and pet.
Michael & Diane Avery
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe were certainly sorry to hear about Bootsy.
Any time we were at your inn, it was always a pleasure to see her.
Our thoughts are with you.
Stevie, Dick and Penny
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe're really sorry to hear the bad news about Bootsy. We enjoyed her company, although briefly, when we were there recently. She was a sweet cat!
- George and Fran Yost
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for your loss and ours. What asweet cat…..We will miss sharing a room with her.
Ron and Deb Cole
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am soooo sorry! Janet and I thought she was precious. I have six cats and have lost many in the past and have sympathy for the pain. Doris
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Bootsy. She will be missed by all. A sad sad day.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about Bootsy.
She greeted us with an overnight stay in our room and was looking forward to seeing her next month. She left a lifetime impression on all that met her.
She will greatly be missed.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I are so sad to hear that Bootsy will no longer be there to greet us upon arrival at the Mitchell. She was always the first thing we looked for when we arrived. She was so sweet and friendly, and could melt even the hardest of hearts.
Being cat people, our thoughts are with you.
Jeff and Nancy Frye
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteMy heartfelt condolences. Bootsy was one of the most friendly furry people I knew.
P. Michael Wilson
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI remember a cat roaming around the lodge when we stayed there several seasons ago. Being a cat lover myself, my heart aches for your great loss. There is nothing like a furry little friend to keep you company and I hope you will "find" another one soon.
With sympathy,
Diane Carlo
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSOO sorry to.hear about Bootsy, she was so loveable and we fell in love with her right away. She went into my daughter's boyfriends room and made herself at home. The next day she climbed on my husband hightop van and one of the clerks said make sure she doesn't go home with you,(just joking around). I'm sure she will be missed by everyone's life she touched. We missed her already. Our condolences to you and your staff. The Mayas Family
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteFYI – sad day on the Mountain.
Alan
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! As I write I amtotally sobbing. Bootsy was a majorhighlight to every one of our trips to Highlands. She made every individual feel special. She would let anyone touch andpet her. As we are big animal lovers, Bootsy offered a huge comfort ofhome whenever we visited. I am so sorry for all of you at Mitchell’s. I know how much she meant to everyone that works or makes their homethere. What a sweet girl! I don’t think I have ever known asweeter cat. Really. I mean, she would let every one of yourvisitors put their grubby hands all over her! What cat allows that at anytime? Aaron and I feel so lucky to have seen her a couple of weekendsago. Lots of love and hugs from Aaron and me! We will truly missher at our next visit. Hope to see you all soon!
Love~
Bethany Philyaw
Ginger,
ReplyDeleteI just saw your sad note about Bootsy and
Of course it made me very sad. I remember
Her as much as anyone at The Lodge and
Will miss seeing her each time.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
I guess as they say, you & all who knew her
should remember that we were blessed to
have known her, even in this time of loss
...rather than to have not known & loved her!
God Bless,
Jerry McWilliams
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry about Bootsy. We haven't been able to come to Highlands in awhile but I remember her well. I know what you're going through as we lost both of our labs one year apart. I'll be thinking of you.
Judy Ingram
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sad to hear about Bootsy! She was such a sweet cat and I always looked forward to seeing her! She will be greatly missed by so many people!!
Thinking about all of you!
Treffrey
(hotel guest and friend of Natalie's)
I cried when I got your message. Bootsy was such a sweet kitty. She greeted everyone!
ReplyDeleteThis post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
My friend and I are visiting over New Year's and he just made the reservations about a week ago and asked about Bootsy. She was special. Our trip will be saddened by her not being there.
Karen
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about Bootsy!!!! I love cats and always will. She let me hold her when I was there, and I had a picture of her made with me. She was the sweetest cat I knew.I know how sad you all are, for I have lost love ones to. Hope to see another cat there when I get to come back. I know you can't replace her. But I know your love for cats to.
Virginia
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of Bootsy's passing.... oh so sad..... I can see her in my minds eye... she was such a special cat and loved by so many people.... I'm sorry but i couldn't figure out how to join the blog but wanted to let you know that I cared for her and for all of you and would wish for you all peace during this Thanksgiving season in knowing that she was a happy little creature, gave much joy, and received lots of joy from others.... how appropriate for her to leave on Thanksgiving... if she had to leave.
God bless you all....
Crystal Justice
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteSorry for your loss
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this sad news. I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet.
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteBootsy was indeed a unique cat that was loved by many people. My wife, Irene, and I absolutely loved the way Bootsy welcomed us and, yes, she did sleep in our room...in fact, she slept on my feet. My first thought is that you should go get another cat to replace Bootsy, but I realize that is not possible. You can't just go find a cat like Bootsy, I pray that God will send you another furry blessing to welcome everyone who visits Mitchell's Lodge. I know you must have many pictures of Bootsy, I hope you will frame some of them and hang them on the wall in the lodge.
Ron & Irene Lambright
We also just recieved a really touching card in the mai from Wayne and Patty Turner expressing their condolences
ReplyDeleteAl
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am just getting this. Tears came to my eyes as I read this. Bootsy was the most loving, friendly cat I have met in many years. My thoughts are with you all. I will always remember her perched on the counter under the warm lights. Thanks for letting us know.
Debbie Love
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry! Bootsy napping in the sun always made us feel so at home!
Anne and Jay Hughes
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Bootsy. She will be missed as she was always "on duty" accepting strangers as her friends, when I stayed at Mitchell's.
My deepest sympathies,
Barb
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteOh, we are so sorry about Bootsy. When we had come up at the end of March, so our son could go snow tubing we met Bootsy. She liked to watch every thing that was going on.She was very sweet.
_The Crayne Family
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteI did not know Bootsy although perhaps I have seen her in my stays there. However, I can clearly see that she was well loved. Today whether human or cat that is a wonderful thing for the receiver. So therefore, I can conclude she lived a good life. Take comfort in that and that you were able to offer her that even thru the pain as a result of her tragic accident.
You have my sincere sympathy.
Ron Holt
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteDear Al, Rene, Natalie et al,
We were so sad to hear of Bootsy's death. ( I tried to post a comment on the blog, but it didn't go through. . . here's what it said.)
Aw, Bootsy, we'll dearly miss you. Stroking your soft fur while we checked in, seeing you saunter down the parking lot or lazing in the sun, and those green eyes! I hope the photo I took of you (last time I checked, it was in the breakfast room) will remind us all of your lovely, languid spirit. There'll never be another Lodge Cat like you!
With love, sadness and sympathy,
Judy and Bob Mangasarian
This post is from an email that was sent to us from one of our guests
ReplyDeleteWe're so sorry to hear about Bootsy. She was a sweet cat, and we loved her company when we visited. Thank you for taking such good care of her for so long.
Much love,
Mary and Sam Phillips