Kat has been a friend for over a decade, and we have talked and laughed on the phone and here at Mudcat many, many times. I'm sorry I never met her. She was a great spirit, and -- as others have said -- the central loving spirit of the Mudcat. Among the strange things about contemporary life is this sort of thing -- deep connection to people you never met, but who reveal themselves in their beauty over the long haul, year in and year out, and who you can't help but love. It's amazing to think about how much she influenced and bettered so many people's lives just by being here as herself. The sweetheart of the rodeo.

bye, Kat. Thanks for everything.