Yesterday, we had to say goodbye to a dear friend who has been with us for 14 years. This is Ayaka. We decided she needed an anime-style name when she got her at about 6-8 months old, because at that point she was about 50% eyes. Ayaka was all about comfort and love. She had amazing ninja-style skills for finding the lap -- you'd look down and there she was, and you'd have no idea how she got there. She was a terrifically sweet cat and a beloved companion, and we will miss her greatly.

And yes, "Hayaka" in the strip was named with Ayaka in mind. We'll be back with the comic on Wednesday.

--Grayson Towler
December 2008