From Dirt to Diva: Lira’s Big Debut

Apparently, your beloved kitty, Lira, is now a published model. Yes, you heard that right. Lira the “Dumpster Cat” is featured on page two of a coloring book. You have Beata to thank for this fun adventure.

I know, I know… you’re probably laughing already. Because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that Lira has never been a “pretty kitty.” She’s perpetually covered in dirt, proudly wearing her grime like a badge of honor, and I’m convinced she thinks bathing is for amateurs. But she’s yours—and that made her perfect. You loved her scruffy little self with your whole heart, and she loved you right back, no matter how many tumbleweeds of fur and clumps of dirt she left behind.

These days, she’s traded in your lap for Nadzia’s. She curls up with your baby sister at night, like she somehow knows she’s keeping your spot warm. And truthfully, sometimes Nadzia reminds me so much of you—especially in the mornings when I’m standing in her doorway, repeating my classic “Feet on the floor!” just to make sure she’s actually upright for school. Some things never change.

We all got such a kick out of seeing Lira’s “glamour shot.” The artist clearly took some creative liberties—she looks clean, fluffy, and even a little majestic. Ha! We all know that is not how Lira rolls. But still, we couldn’t help but smile. Because it feels like a tiny, funny reminder of you, and of the way love shows up in the most unexpected, slightly ridiculous ways.

I like to think you’re watching all of this from above—rolling your eyes, laughing along with us, and cheering for your perfectly imperfect kitty’s five minutes of fame.

We miss you every single day, Squirrel. Keep watching over us and your filthy little feline star.

Love,

Chell