The neighbor's cat

This is one more of the things that I will miss when I vacate my apartment next week. In every apartment block you always have that one particular neighbor who is nice, so nice that he or she is becoming quite intrusive and doesn't seem to grasp the meaning of "personal space".

In my apartment block, this is that particular neighbor, Mio the cat.

Mio has been a regular visitor in my apartment ever since I moved in here seven years ago. He lives in the fourth floor with his sister Nala. Like everyone else Mio has had his share of ups and downs. He has been operated on several times, nearly died one time. He even got lost a time or two.

But like every good neighbor, Mio will, whenever his owner lets him out, never hesitate to knock (scratch my door and meow out loud) and ask to be let in. Once inside he would explore every nook and cranny, sit on my lap once in a while, play with my stuff, and even ask for a bite to eat. And during the hot summer months he would find his way to my linen closet and sleep there for many hours!

During the last several weeks Mio's visits have become more and more frequent. I guess he too is sensing that I will soon be leaving this apartment building on M15, and that one day, when he goes on knocking on what was once the door to my apartment, someone else will open the door, and that he will probably be not allowed inside anymore.

I will never forget you, Mio. And I am sure to show pictures I have taken of you to my family. They will be glad to know that, during the times I felt the loneliest, you were there to cheer me up and make me feel appreciated.