Remembering Sir Chancelot
&
The CoolChance Gang

 

When we inhabited our small corner of the world-wide web, we were a bit unsure. This experience was so new to us, wondering if anyone would become our friend. We made friends with some good cats from Pennsylvania. Shortly afterward, we made friends with another group of cats from Michigan that were also new to the web. They were known as The CoolChance Gang, led by the handsome and brave Sir Chancelot.

In the following weeks, our friendship grew along with the friendship between our families. Soon, we were exchanging updates and photos about the activities in our homes, the stuff that couldn't be found on our respective web sites. While we stayed on the small side, the CoolChance site grew in size. They became one of the most popular cat sites on the web.

Despite their popularity, the CoolChance Gang remained regular cats. Part of their mission was to help other cats who weren't as lucky as they were ... those in need of their own loving, forever homes. They did their share of rescuing and fostering. Sirena, Cassie, and Kalley-Oop. Their biggest effort was the Plankwood Kitten Gang. Forever homes for all were found.

After nearly four years on the web, their site closed to pursue new interests. The photos of the gang would be reserved for family. Stories also saved for family and the closest of friends. We were privileged to be among the closest of friends, and remain so.

As 2006 began, little did their family know it would become a very, very difficult year. A year that would test their strength.

Just before Easter, Jasmine and Jasper crossed the Rainbow Bridge together. The two siamese cats were the best of friends. They were the first cats their people had.

Jasmine

 

Jasper

 

Jasper was originally meant to be for his kitty mom, but he preferred the company of his kitty dad. Wanting her "own" cat like Jasper, the mom began a search for a siamese. A siamese girl would do, and they could do "girl" stuff together. Jasmine was found. She was the "paid for" cat of the gang. Once home, Jasmine became friends with Jasper and their doggie housemate, Rosco. Like Jasper, Jasmine also preferred the company of the kitty dad.

It wasn't long afterward, another siamese girl needed a home. Her first family was ready to surrender her to the local shelter and an uncertain future. The mom decided this petite, young lady had to live with them. Her name was Sassafras, Sassy to her friends.

Sassy

 

Sassy became mom's girl, and quickly assumed the title and position as "Queen of the House." Despite her tiny size, Sassy had an assertive personality. While she easily got along with her fellow housemates, Sassy made sure the rescues and fosters knew who was in charge. Sassy had her tender side also. As Jasmine steadily lost her sight in her later years, Sassy became her helper and protector. When Jasmine passed away, Sassy missed her a lot. She retreated to the safety of the home office and the company of the mom. Yet, as "Queen," she needed to survey the rest of her kingdom. But, missing Jasmine was too much for her.

Sir Chancelot

 

Sir Chancy was the remaining original kitty member of the CoolChance Gang. He was his mom's best friend. He would spend many hours with her surfing the web. Clicking here, clicking there. Chancy was a gentle, kind cat. He was a friend to all of his housemates, a friend to the rescue and foster kits that stayed in his home. The best friend he was, he comforted his family after the loss of Jasmine, Jasper, and Sassy.

In late 2006, Chancy's health suddenly declined. He tried to be brave and strong. But, finding the proper medication level was taking its toll on Chancy. His family knew Chancy was ready to journey across the Rainbow Bridge.

Rosco

 

Rosco was a big, friendly guy. A good friend and protector of the CoolChance cats. His bestest of friends was Jasper, both growing up and playing together. When Jasmine came along, she couldn't get close enough to Rosco. At naptime, Jasmine could be found nestled among his legs. And, he didn't mind.

In his later years, age caught up with the big guy. When his family took in an abandoned pup, named Dexter, the little one perked him up. Though he couldn't play and run as long, Dexter made Rosco feel a bit younger.

Across the bridge, it's certain the Original CoolChance Gang has reunited with Chancy in the lead. And, meeting friends from the web ... Pebbles and Dino. Seeing they are all siamese, Chancy has taken note he's in formal attire and Rosco has noticed he's in basic black.

We'll miss our good friends, Sir Chancy, Jasper, Jasmine, Sassy, and Rosco. But, we'll know we'll see you later. Until then, ...

 

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