Grayson's Big Brave World

Grayson, Our Big Brave Boy

How do you put a cat like Grayson into words?

He was funny, loving, calm, completely himself — and somehow made every person and animal he met feel special.

When I left radio after two decades, I didn't know how to "do" TV. I was nervous and trying to figure out who I was in this new chapter. But Grayson was there. So I picked him up and got in front of the camera.

He became my Pet Pals TV sidekick — although let's be clear, Grayson was always the star. He went to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, met Burt Ward, was crowned King Grayson, and stole the show at my first book signing.

But the very best Grayson was at home.

He adored his daddy. Every evening he'd trot upstairs and wait at the window for Patrick to come home. Then came the big stretch into Daddy's arms, the slobbery kisses and nuzzles. He loved sleeping with Patrick and pawing at his leg in the kitchen for just one more Churu.

He loved Amelia fiercely. He let her suckle his ear until it was callused while he bathed her until she was absolutely soaked.

And Grayson loved people. When someone walked through our door, he was the cat trotting over to greet them. He loved his nieces and nephews and had this beautiful way of making everyone feel safe and special.

That was Grayson.

I'll miss his gravelly little voice, the paw to my face in the morning, his cuddles and kisses, his soaked mousey and, of course, that ridiculous tongue.

But Grayson didn't just face illness bravely. He lived brave.

He showed up exactly as he was. Tongue out. Toothless. Sometimes ridiculous. Completely lovable. And he inspired me to do the same.

When our Big Brave Boy finally told us he was tired, it was our turn to be brave for him.

But I know our home is different because he was here. We are different because he was here.

He made people feel safe. He made animals feel safe. He made us feel loved. And he showed me what it looks like to move through this world without worrying about being perfect.