How it all began...

It was Spring of 2020....COVID loomed over us all. Much was lost, and so many of us found ourselves homebound, trying our best to cope with each new day.

We have two cats, and were very thankful for our local pet stores remaining open. On a quick trip out to pick up some necessities for Nelson and Willy, my son Coleman and I, noticed a cage in the store window. A small, white Rat, was snuggled within it.

We made our purchases, and inquired about the cute little fella. It turned out, that he needed a home.

Now... I had been rescuing animals my whole life, and lovingly passed this tradition on to my sons. It was an easy decision. We came home with a Rat. We named him Master Splinter (tee hee), but eventually nicknamed him Pooka. We fell in love with him, and his adorable personality.

He lived on a table in our family room, and over time, had play houses outside of his cage, and lots of toys to keep him busy.

As the days passed, Paul Sr. began joining Pooka at his table, to work on his drawings. He enjoyed doing portraits, and different abstract prints. Paul Sr. and Pooka became a team. Sharing their meals, playing, and sometimes napping.

On one particular day, Paul Sr. was completely engrossed in his drawing, and didn't notice Pooka waddling toward his hand.

Suddenly... OUCH! Pooka had bitten him! Paul laughed, as he watched our little Rat drag his picture away, and pull it into his cage for extra bedding.

"Okay", Paul said. "I guess you didn't like that drawing."

He proceeded to start another picture, with a sudden, new found inspiration! He drew a bird. Followed by a worm. He then asked me if I thought a bird and a worm could be friends.

"Absolutely", I replied.