Hensley The Cat

Hensley was a yellow cat as big as he could be And every night I'd stroke his fur as he slept next to me
He'd spend his days in our backyard and late at night he'd roam but one March night he walked away and never came back home
I made some signs with colored pens and put them all around "LOST CAT" I wrote in pink and blue, "PLEASE RETURN IF FOUND"
A week went by without a word I cried at night in bed But then a boy called on the phone, "I found your cat," he said
"I found him lying in the street," the boy said quietly, "It must have been a passing car. I'm sorry as can be."
I hung his picture on my wall next to his favorite toy I wrote, "I'll miss you everyday with all my heart. Love, Joy"
Although my Hensley's gone away There's still a cause to sing My mommy said an angel found a yellow cat with wings

About the Authors:

Laura Kaplan Shanley and her daughter Joy live in Boulder, Colorado. The family consists of Laura, her husband, four children and cat named Puddy. Laura is best known for her 1994 book, UNASSISTED CHILDBIRTH. Boulder school children have been enjoying Laura's stories and poems for many years, and her autobiographical poem LAURA RUTH HAS LOST A TOOTH appeared in the magazine CHILDREN'S PLAYMATE. Hensley The Cat is a true story. Hensley was Joy's very good friend. You may reach Laura Kaplan Shanley or her daughter Joy at: bornfree@ecentral.com Did you know that Laura has some fun stories online? You'll enjoy reading
The Goggle Eyed Green Hairy Monster and Me

About the Illustrator: Marleen Dolly Nurzinski is Dutch by birth. She has lived in Holland, Houston, Texas, and in Australia, where she currently resides. Much of her professional life has been devoted to nurturing children, and her kid-friendly artwork is an extension of her affection for little folks. You may reach "Dol" at dol@optusnet.com.au