Happy November, Team Anka!

My name is Beth, and I will be serving as your guest correspondent this month. Although you and I have never officially “met,” Anka and I have been friends since his arrival at Tabby’s Place, and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to write about his adventures in this month’s special Thanksgiving update.

Author Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual. It is surprising how contented one can be with nothing definite–only a sense of existence.” As we snuggle into a suddenly brisk November in anticipation of the upcoming holiday season, Anka reflects on his present blessings. It is in this spirit of thanksgiving that he would like to share a list of things for which he is most grateful.

1. Anka is grateful for compassion. As many of you know, the story of Anka’s arrival to Tabby’s Place is a complicated, winding narrative that began in Turkey and ended in Ringoes, NJ. It is a tale of heartache, hope, and a tremendous act of love. Anka remembers all those who helped him find his way with love and gratitude.

2. Anka is grateful for his health. If you recall, Anka was battling a stubborn urinary tract infection, which required strong antibiotics. Happily, he is finally clear of his infection. Given his vulnerability to these infections, though, we’re now going to test his urine monthly. Anka recognizes that not all kitties are lucky enough to have immediate access to wonderful medical care, and he reflects on his health with appreciation.

3. Anka is grateful for love. From Tabby’s Place staff to volunteers, to sponsors, to “roommates” in the Lobby, to visitors who spend special moments with him, Anka is surrounded every day by kind souls who treat him with compassion, love, and respect. He is thankful for everyone who shows him, on a daily basis, how much goodness there is in this world.

4. Anka is thankful for joy. Handsome Anka has been a cat of many firsts at Tabby’s Place, but his most recent adventure beats all his other adventures, hands down. This past month, Anka was officially the first Tabby’s Place cat ever to visit a nursing home while dressed as a banana split. You read that correctly! Anka made no complaint as we dressed him in the world’s cutest Halloween costume, and he was as happy as ever to bring some joy to the lives of his special senior friends.

5. Anka is thankful for Tabby’s Place. When you are a cat without a forever family, there is no better place for you to be than here with us. We love our cats so much, and we promise them happy, healthy lives, filled with love for as long as they need us. We love Anka beyond measure. Once a Tabby’s Place cat, always a Tabby’s Place cat.

Mostly, though, Anka is thankful for you. Thank you for choosing him to be your special sponsored friend. It is through your love and generosity that he is able to thrive here with us. Anka and I send you all the blessings of Thanksgiving, today and always. We love you so very much!

Happy Thanksgiving, friends.