As I headed out with the older boys for barn chores on Friday morning we came across Thomas Jefferson, dead. It was clearly a case of curiosity killed the cat, as he got himself in a too small spot and strangled himself trying to get out. Not a good way to start off the day.

The boys did not see him, and were quite solemn when I told them about it. Luke took in stride, but he’s been flying off the handle over small things since. Luke had taken a liking to Thomas, and Thomas to him. When Thomas slept in the house (as opposed to the barn) he usually chose to sleep in Luke’s bed with him. Luke naturally makes connections to animals and people in that way; he’s sensitive to others in a way that’s easy to recognize and appreciate.

I don’t think that there’s much more to say than that. Sometimes, life with animals is just tough.