Monday, June 9, 2014

Stepping Out With Wylla Stout: Going Back to Cali

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 We just returned from a very quick trip to California. Craig's Grandmother passed away last summer, and we joined the family in Murphys, Ca for a memorial service and celebration of her remarkable life.

This was Wylla's second trip down the coast, and just like the first time, she did well during the 1600 + mile journey. She slept most of the way, and only objected when we drove through the curvy mountain passes.  We made frequent stops for snacks, drinks, and bathroom breaks.

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The first day we drove about eight hours, and landed in Yreka, California. We found a hotel,  loaded all of our luggage and gear in, and gave Wylla  a chance to explore the room thoroughly and have a snack.


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After ever nook and surface was sniffed, we stepped out into the heat and took a little walk through the hills and stretched our legs.

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We headed out early the next morning and made it to Yuba City, Grandma Sally's former home. 

Another day, another hotel.

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We spent one night in Yuba City and did some work around Grandma Sally's house. I think Wylla remembered visiting here before, because she settled in so quickly when we arrived.

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The next day, we headed to Murphys, Ca for the service.  We spent a little time exploring this charming town with Wylla riding on Craig's shoulders.


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The next morning, the service was held at the cemetery, and yes, Wylla went with us. When we travel with Wylla, there really isn't an option of leaving her in the hotel, so where we go, she goes.  It does make things complicated at times,  but it always works out because she's always so good.

We kept her in her carrier during the service, and she was calm the whole time.  I know it does sound a bit odd bringing a cat to such an event, but if you knew Grandma Sally,  you would agree that she would be completely delighted that a cat attended her memorial service.   She would love that Wylla was there triggering many smiles during this solemn event.


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After the service, we headed to the hall for Sally's celebration of life.

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And again, Wylla was so calm and good.

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We got back on the road later that night,  and headed north.   A couple of hotels and a few hundred miles later, we arrived safely at home.

Bean stayed at home, she's not much of a traveler, and her buddy Sarah took care of her.  She was very happy to see us when we returned, and was very curious about the 1600 + miles of smells her sister brought back with her.  

 


33 comments:

  1. I can only hope someone brings a kitty to my funeral!! :) ps: i love the third pic - it looks like Wylla is checking out her butt in the mirror!

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    1. Or going 'Drat, that bit of fur *never* lays right'!

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    2. I was thinking the same thing. I'd like a pet friendly service. When the time comes, i'd like to be cremated and have my ashes mixed and spread with my cats ashes. That would make me happy. :)

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    3. Great idea, Holly! I think I'll adopt it. Thanks!

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    4. Does this floof make my butt look big?

      "it looks like Wylla is checking out her butt in the mirror!"

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  2. Great post, thanks for sharing all the pictures! It's been awhile since there was a "Stepping Out" adventure! Wylla is a great little traveler, I love that her "belly up" basket came along with you all :)

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  3. Wow, Wylla seems to actually enjoy traveling! Any tips on how to make a trip more cat-friendly?

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    1. Try catmantoo on YouTube for behavior training of vats

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  4. I too would love a kitty at my memorial service. Sorry for your loss and thanks for more "Stepping Out" trips! I assume Beanie got royally spoiled by Sarah.

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  5. Wylla has become quite the seasoned traveller. She looks natural atop her daddy's shoulders too! And I agree with everyone else. I would love for my memorial service to include everyone's animals. The more, the better. I am sorry for your loss. Grandma Sally appears to have been a wonderful woman!

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  6. oh my how amazing are you wylla. you can be a road trip kitty and you don't complain about it. hats off to you sweetie pie.

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  7. love the picture at the picnic table. and it is wonderful that Wylla got to help celebrate Grandma Sally's life :)

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  8. Wylla is such a wonderful kitty--I'm so pleased she stayed with you. It's really where she belongs. She's such a beautiful little cat and such a joyous spirit.

    And what a wonderful addition to a sorrowful event. I bet Grandma Sally is happy looking down and seeing lovely Wylla being such a respectful little girl.

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  9. Oh my gosh, you were so close by, I would have loved to meet you both and of course beautiful Wylla! What a sweet baby, shes so good!

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  10. There is not one kitty in the entire universe as well behaved and adorable as Wylla. She is certainly an extraordinary cat.

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  11. It's an honor following Wylla and her family near and far.

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  12. I'm sure Charlene doesn't begrudge Wylla her travels. I bet she actually enjoys having the place to herself (well with the exception of Sara).

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  13. You have an open invitation to stop in San Francisco. :)

    I love all these photos & that Grandma Sally got to have Wylla attend her memorial. Wylla's such a special kitty!

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  14. Isn't Murphys the cutest little town? Gorgeous surroundings, charming main street.

    I agree with everyone else--I want animals at my memorial service, too. Let them come. Let them bark, sniff, meow, purr, and everything else. I love them in life, why not celebrate my life with animals?

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  15. Wylla is a remarkable cat! Also, she has remarkable owners!

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    1. and a remarkable big sister too! I bet she makes people smile whereever she goes! I know I would if I met her out and about!

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  16. After reading this, I shall request, nay demand, that there be at least one cat at my memorial service. I loved reading this...wonderful.

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  17. It just amazes me how calm Wylla is during trips! What a trooper.

    And like the previous commenters, I hope there's a cat at my memorial service too.

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  18. I love that she is such a good little traveler! And, yes, kitties will be welcome at my memorial service, too.

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  19. "Does this mirror make my butt look big?"

    No Wylla.. You're fine.. :)

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  20. Assuming wee Wylla wins hearts wherever she goes, and and that this trip was no different, it must’ve been a comfort for Craig to have her along as he said a final farewell to his grandma.

    Condolences to you both, and thanks for sharing these sweet images.

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  21. After reading this, there is no doubt that Wylla perfectly embodies the description of a special cat. I am sure she and Bean shared many great stories again when she returned.

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  22. I think it's wonderful that you brought her to the memorial. I'm sure Grandma was smiling down on Wylla's presence there.

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  23. Well, if it was MY memorial service, I would insist on having a cat in attendance!
    I am always impressed with Wylla's traveling skills.

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  24. Wylla is such a doll :) Looks like she had a great time :)

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  25. Wylla is an amazing cat. I can't imagine any of mine taking a trip calmly like that.

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