Some time ago we inherited Godfrey the hamster from one of the students at church whose landlord would not allow pets (yes, not even a hamster…).
As is the way with a new pet, great was the initial rejoicing among the children. But after about 30 minutes they hardly ever looked at him again! Godfrey was something of a bionic hamster. He had an incredible ability to escape his cage, and would take up residence under an inaccessible bookcase, from which we could hear the sound of much gnawing. Eventually we had to tape down every possible point of weakness in his cage in an attempt to contain him.
As well as great strength, Godfrey was also of great age. The chief advantage of hamsters as pets is that they normally die within two years. When we took Godfrey on he was – allegedly – already nearing his third birthday, so we assumed it would be a short affair. But die he would not.
With our plan being to move away from SE London by the beginning of 2008 we really didn’t want Godfrey to be part of our future, and I had suggested various means of disposing of him. Despite their apparent lack of interest in the rodent, the children would always outvote me if I tried to suggest taking the ultimate sanction against him.
But – glad news – we awoke this morning to find Godfrey cold and stiff in his cage.
I consider this to be a clear sign from the heavens that we are about to know with absolute clarity where and when we shall be moving. And I am also very clear that while we may at some point get a new puppy, we will be steering clear of small rodents!
Best of the Rest w/e 17 May 2013
-
[image: Best of the Rest w/e 17 May 2013 primary image]
What has caught our eye around the web this week?
Steve Holmes gets it right: why, despite reports...
1 day ago
3 comments:
You are a hard, hard man Hosier.
Although to be fair, I personally believe pets exist for two reasons: to teach children the concepts of responsibility, and the reality of mortality.
Not having children, I can safely say that with an ironic smile on my face. Safe in the knowledge that my growing collection of electronic gadgetry won't have any wires gnawed through.
In the interest of balance and as Godfrey's primary care giver I would like it to be known that no tears were shed by any of the children, but I think they regret not giving him more attention. They are well aquainted with death , having watched their father shoot and skin rabbits!
But we are still appalled at his first comment on hearing of our hamster's passing, " HOORAY!"
Shame on you Hosier.
You are cruel!!
I am also waiting for 'Harry the Hamster' to die and then hopefully Steven will buy us a puppy too.
Love your bloggs!
Maxine
Post a Comment