Imagine a weekend morning: the smell of drip coffee is just starting to fill the kitchen. Before you can even make yourself a cup a furry paw is on your knee or a fuzzy head is expertly pushing its way into your arms.
At that moment we know one thing for sure: they are never just "pets." They are our family, our roommates, our travel partners and the loyal listeners in our lives.
On this blog we want to take a break from talking about breeds or memorials for a moment. Instead speaking simply as family members we want to share the stories of life that happen between "us and them."
They are part of every moment we spend outside or at home. When you pack the trunk with camping gear for a weekend trip that companion who jumps into the seat early—sticking their head out the window to catch the wind while their tail wags fast—is your travel friend. Whether at a weekend market on a street covered in fallen leaves or in the yard after the first snow of the season their footprints are always close to ours.
They have not taken the passenger seat; they have become a big part of our lifes journey. They are in every family photo. There is always a special spot for them during holiday celebrations.
As family members they may not understand the pressures of our jobs or the complicated parts of the world but they have a very sharp sense of understanding.
You have probably had this experience: after a tiring day as you walk through the front door with tired feet the sight of that person waiting for you brings all your worries away. When you are sick in bed or feeling down about things a cat might quietly lie on your chest comforting you with its purr or a dog might gently place its head on your lap looking at you with loving eyes.
They have seen our graduations, our moves, our single days, our relationships and even our weddings. During their lives, which last just a little more than ten years they are always there for us through the most important events in life.
It is because we love them much that we want to keep every detail of their lives. Our phone albums are often full—taking up 90% of the space—with pictures of their funny sleeping positions and times when they ran freely.
As time goes on beyond the flat pictures on the screen is there a better way to keep the memories of these "family members" in a real physical form?
That is why our small shop exists. We wanted to make something that gives you a touching presence—whether you are tired after a long day or watching your favorite pet get older. We use the softness and warmth of wool to catch the essence of that soul.
How did your furry friend become part of your family? What touching stories do you have? We ask you to tell us in the comments or send us a photo. Every story of love, on this planet deserves to be heard and valued.