The Big Picture by Lennie Peterson for March 30, 2021

I really love the way you end an era, Mr. Peterson. If reruns are at the end of this, I’m in.

I remember when our first cat died, of liver disease after being sick for a few weeks. We’ve had cats since, but Mr. Cat was special.

Even after 17 years I feel sorry for your loss.

I’m so very sorry, Lennie.. it’s never easy to lose a furbaby :( I know it was a long time ago. I mourn every furbaby I’ve ever lost but I know they’re either at the Rainbow Bridge, or moved on to another lifetime

They all have unique personalities and touch our lives in different but significant ways.

ok, so if history repeats its self, the comic strip will come back??? (please)

I mail-mailed you a card back then, Lennie. You beautifully portrayed the feelings so many of us have when we lose one of our precious furballs.

DOOOOOOOOON’T GOOOOOOOOOOO, Leeeeeeenie!!!!!

I lost Smudge (the kitty who loved to climb up my pants and shirt to get petted). Then 10 years later I lost Samson (The BEST kitty ever. Sorry, everyone else :-) ). I feel for anyone who lost a beloved cat (or dog). They leave a hole in our hearts that can never be filled again. The only conciliation is that we might meet again…

Unfortunately, cats seem to be susceptible to diabetes. Over the years, three developed the disease and I became very good at giving shots. Still am, but healthy and now totally indoor cats.The sweet memories of them is always with me. They just are not physically here. How wonderful that you shared your love of Ginger with us each day. We feel as though she is part ours and always will be.

Our 18 year old cat is showing signs that its close to her time, the last year has had a lot of ups and downs for her

She’s sitting next to me right now, being lovey and perky today

She’s been an awesome companion

So sad to lose her. You made her so special to so many. I know we are all glad you kept her memory alive.

Yuck! He picked up Ginger out of the litter box?

2004 was a bad year. My Chianti was an early casualty of melamine in the protein product in pet foods. She died of kidney failure on May 17, 2004. I guess I hadn’t realized it has been so long ago, it still feels like yesterday.

I remember when Ginger passed. (my condolences still) I cannot believe it’s been 17 years. I remember when you retired your strip, also over 15 years ago! I also remember I sent in a SASE (with an actual stamp on it) to get a mini-calendar… I’m still waiting. I remember, too, I sent a birthday card to Al Jaffee for his 100th birthday… how did that turn out? Are you sure you can’t manage a Sunday strip? Thanks for your contribution to the comics world. You will be missed.

Blurry monitor virus all over this strip – just like back in 04.

We all know that Ginger is the one who made you famous. Ginger just smiles thinking about how famous you have become. Homeslice knows it, too.

Ginger was a very special kitty, that is certain. Seeing her in your current comics was always a nice touch of memory.

Wow Lenny. I had a diabetic cat too, I was on shore duty then and he succumbed after a year of doing shots. Cats are angels in our lives and give us comfort. Over the years I’ve probably had 20. I give them long lives and they give me love. Prob. why I’m still single (not alone mind you with all these mouths to feed and take care of)!

I remember sending you an email when Ginger passed. I’d recently lost my oldest girl, so losing Ginger, even though by proxy, hurt a lot. I was surprised to receive a response: I didn’t expect it, thinking you’d be too busy to reply to anyone and I just wanted to let you know someone was thinking of you. Me and kajillion others, I guess. I was sad when the last strip ended, thrilled when you came back, and sad again now. You’re a good man, Lennie Peterson, and you’ve made a lot of lives happier with your presence. Thank you.