One year ago today, I said goodbye to a very special friend.

He was always there, in good times and bad. He welcomed me home, always happy to see me, always enthusiastic in making sure I knew it, climbing up to perch on me like a fuzzy cat-koala hybrid to nuzzle my ear.

He never pushed for anything, but would ask in a gentle way if he wanted attention - he'd quietly chirp if my headphones were off, or gently tap my leg with his paw if the headphones were on, never using his claws.

He'd curl up on my lap while I worked, and give me a bit of company while I was at my desk. He'd wake me up with little nudges of his nose or gentle taps of a paw.

He was gentle and sweet, the most affectionate cat I've ever had the joy of knowing, and I never doubted or questioned how much he loved me - I never had any reason to.

I can only hope he knew just as surely that I love him back every bit as much and more.

He fell asleep in my arms that morning one year ago. I will love him and miss him always.

Rest well, O'Riley.

October 22, 2009 - September 30, 2017