Mila

Richard and Mila fall in love

He wasn’t sure what to do when he lost the love of his life after more than 25 years together. When his wife Trish died on October 28, 2021, his heart was broken beyond repair. He bumped around their house, filled with grief.

His beautiful daughter, Jessica had an idea. A few months later, she asked him to meet her on Friday afternoon at Petco. There, she presented him with a tiny, three month old (born on 9.11.21) gray fur ball named Mila.

Richard was a bit stunned. He wasn’t sure what to do with the frisky little hair ball. He hadn’t had a pet since he was a child.

“What do I do with her?” Richard asked his daughter as he gently held Mila in his arms. He felt goosebumps as she brushed across his neck.

“Love her and let her love you back,” Jessica replied, as she softly scratched a tiny ear.

He looked into her bright green eyes. “Hi Mila. I’m Richard.” She tried to climb onto his shoulder. She liked this guy.

Tiny Mila in her forever home

After a mindful shopping spree they collected all she would need in her new, forever home, Richard tucked her in his jacket and never looked back.

He smiled. He giggled. He wasn’t filled with grief *every* minute. She brought him many unbridled moments of joy.

As they settled in to their life together, Mila learned what time Richard came home from work. There she was, every day, waiting for him at the door.

Richard scooped up the little girl, giving her kisses and gentle scratches - she was *so* little. Back on the floor, Mila was off. Richard calls her feisty. Funny. Full of life.

Mila Strikes a Pose

Mila has complete use of their townhome. Sometimes Richard brings her on to the courtyard to explore. She’s very curious, but stays close to her daddy. She knows he has the treats and loves. Plus she likes him a lot.

Mila enjoying being outside

Before the sun rises, Richard will feel a sharp, soft nibble on his nose. Mila will softly fall next to his head, gently pawing at his ear. It’s time to get up! Mila has had a lovely night sleeping in their bed - she stays on her side until the morning. They snuggle for a few minutes and then it’s time for everyone to get going.

Coffee for Richard, nom nom for Mila.

Lilly and Mila play

Richard’s daughter is staying with them for the time being. Her dog Lilly provides entertainment and companionship for Mila. Lilly enjoys watching Mila attack her feather toy or jump straight up, chasing a squishy ball. Inevitably, Dad smiles - even giggles a bit - as he again - scoops her up into his arms.

Mila the Vikings Fan

“You’re my love, Mila. Mila My Love,” he whispers into her ear and deposits a kiss on her nose.

Thankfully, she’s a healthy, strong little girl and her visits with her friends at Northbrook Animal Hospital confirm her status as a well loved, thriving kitty cat.

Lilly and Mila hanging outside

She’s creative, too. Richard has provided a drinking fountain for her. As the water flows out of the spout, Mila will, once in a while, move her mouth in for a drink. Most of the time, however, she places her paw - pad side up - under the dripping water and slurps it up. And again. And again. Richard smiles.

“My Love, what *are* you doing? Funny girl.”

The sun is warm on Lilly and Mila

Wherever Richard goes, Mila goes. She’s like velcro to Richard. She always wants to be with him. Sitting in the chair? She’s there. Sleeping in the bed? She’s there. Hanging in the courtyard? She’s there.

Except the car. Mila is not a fan of car rides.

Lilly can often be found laying in front of the sliding door, keeping a keen eye on the outdoor goings on. Mila is delighted to join her in this important job. Together they can observe and protect their humans.

My Love

Richard will always feel the pang of grief when he remembers Trish. Now, though, there’s a delightful little soul ready and willing to receive some of his enormous love - Mila.

My Love.

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