Welcoming Aspen Kathleen

I lay my weary head upon the pillow and snuggled into the sofa, hoping for at least a few hours’ sleep. I chose the sofa instead of the guestroom because I was caring for my grandniece, Annie, while her mom and dad were in Spokane giving birth to the little sister who would enhance and change their lives. I wanted to be as close as possible to Annie.

I was so tired (played golf that December day) that I felt sleep wouldn’t elude me for long. About the time I drew the blanket over me, I was seized with needle-like pain of deeply planted claws belonging to the Thompson kitten, Morticia. In her w...