Minnie was delivered to us via the Cat Distribution System. One day while running errands, CatDad spotted her on the streets of a small residential area in Oregon. He walked door to door asking if anyone was missing a cat, but had no luck finding her owners. She was then taken to a local shelter, where she spent five days waiting to be reunited with her potential family, but no one came forward. By that time, an adoption application had already been filled out, and as soon as we received the call that she was ready to be adopted, she was immediately taken to the vet and then finally brought to her forever home.

The shelter named her “Minnie” because she had such a petite frame for an adult cat. In addition to being visibly malnourished and weak, she was equally defensive and timid. It took months to earn the simple trust of being near her, and even longer before she allowed any physical contact. We don’t know what happened to her while she lived outdoors, but we do know that whatever it was — it carried pain, struggle, and fear.

Over time, Minnie blossomed. She became a gentle presence who never missed a chance to curl up next to you and purr. She was even reacquainted with the outdoors, this time safely — wearing a harness and leash. Her stompy gait and raccoon-like tail became part of her signature, earning her many nicknames: Queen Minnie, Minnie Raccoonie, Minnie Fettuccine. Beneath every nickname, she was and always will be our precious girl.

On December 11, 2025, Minnie gained her angel wings. Though her physical presence is gone, her impact remains woven into our daily lives. Minnie taught us patience, gentleness, and the quiet strength it takes to trust again. She continues to be our inspiration, a reminder that healing is possible, love can be relearned, and even the smallest souls can leave the biggest marks on the heart.