Today is my senior statesman's birthday. Texas is 14 years old. Sadly, Tex just isn't in the best of health anymore. He has a thyroid condition that is tough to manage, in the middle stage of kidney failure, and has dropped down to 6 pounds. While I want him with me forever, I know that isn't in the cards.

Tex was my first tuxie, adopted from a shelter in Massachusetts. I used to call Tex my 'suitcase cat' as no matter where I went- moving, vacation, visits, Tex was just fine and dandy with it. He has welcomed every single kitty into the home, even a doggie or two, without a hitch. He is my alpha boy (though Montie is struggling with that) and will only let Georgia, his first love, eat his special wet food. I love him more than humanly possible. Here is one of my all time favorite pics of Tex, which I have posted before. This picture is probably 8 years old, and one of Tex's favorite positions- coiled in the hose, outside (I was out with him).

Happy Birthday, Tex! Mommy loves you!