In June of 2003 we took in our first foster cats, Butternut, 2 years old, and Blackie, 5 years old.  We were beginners, not sure what to do with a strange animal in our home.  But, they warmed up to us quickly and taught us what they needed.  One afternoon I went in for a routine check and playtime with these two and I couldn't find Butternut.  I looked under the bed, all around the room, in the closet, but no.  Maybe she had gotten out of the room and was hiding somewhere.  By this time, my 5 year old daughter was in on the hunt with me.  All over the house we went, behind couches, chairs, the piano, anywhere we could think of, but no Butternut.  Now my heart is racing and my mind is thinking the worst.  Did she get out of the house?  What if I lost her?  We went back into their bedroom, sat on the chair and gave some attention to Blackie.
 I couldn't believe it, there was Butternut, there on top of the amour behind the plant.  She was there the whole time.  It became her favorite spot, high and hidden. 
Both cats found their forever homes within a couple months.  We had 6 more foster cats by December of 2003, all found homes and we were hooked.  Fostering cats was fun and fulfilling.  There have been challenges, there have been tears, there have even been those that we held as they crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.  But mostly there has been joy, and love and antics that make you laugh. 

It's been 9 years and 111 foster cats later.  These are the latest kittens, Tabitha on top, and Drake on the bottom.  We have been caring for them since they were 3 1/2 weeks old.  That means there were some 2AM feedings and the challenge of getting them to eat solid foods.  These two were all but drowned in a rainstorm that came through in July.  Rescued by a young couple and a call to find help, these two now have a future of bringing happiness to a family. 

If you want to know more about adopting or fostering animals, check out the Friends for Life website. 
http://www.azfriends.org/azfriends2/home/