Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013

Subject: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Her Grandson Morgan
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:22 AM

hi it is morgan i wanted to tell you that kat has died last night at 4.00 i gist wonted to let you know

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Deckman
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:28 AM

OH NO ... tell me it isn't true!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bobert
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:30 AM

Sniff...

Kat was the cream of the crop here and always willing to help anyone who needed it... I woman of great wisdom, grace and humility...

Luvyakat...

B:~(

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:33 AM

Morgan wanted to make sure you all knew since she had shared with him all of her wonderful friends on the Mudcat. He knows how important you all have been to her in life.

I'll check the post for then next couple of days. In case anyone wants to know more.

Thank you for being there for my mom during her many years with you all. I know you support and friendship meant the world to her.

Thank you all,
Kat's daughter - Rue

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: meself
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:36 AM

This is very sad. Kat was one of the consistently decent people on here, and a great contributor. We'll miss her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:39 AM

And I'm sorry to have to let you all know in what might seem such an impersonal way. But I don't know how to contact those of you that were closes to her by phone.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,CS
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:50 AM

This is terribly upsetting news.. So sad. That's really choked me up.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Amos
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:56 AM

God, what a shock. I am so sorry.

A

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jeri
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:01 AM

Thanks for letting us know Morgan and Rue.
She held onto her kindness when others had forgotten to try. We all know how much she loved Morgan, You're both in my thoughts, as is Roger and the rest of her family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Matthew Edwards
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:05 AM

I'm very sorry to hear this. Kat was one of the moving spirits here on Mudcat, and her touch will be much missed. My sympathies to Roger, Rue and Morgan and all the family.

Matthew

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:07 AM

Please give Morgan a hug for Claire and Martin, who got to meet him -- and Kat -- just once, but became fast friends over lunch.

Sweet, wonderful, memorable, exceptional people, the pair of you -- and I will miss Kat more than I can say.

Claire

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ranger1
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:10 AM

Oh, no. I had always hoped to meet her in person, as she has been such a good friend to me over the years. Morgan, she loved you very much, and she will always be in your heart, no matter what. Rog and Rue, my condolences to the two of you, as well.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Ebbie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:10 AM

Oh, no.

Morgan, thank you. She will always be so proud of you.

I'm sitting here in tears for a friend I never met and yet whose heart we all know so well.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Little Hawk
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:11 AM

I just found out about this from a post Amos made in the BS section. Sad news for those of us who knew Kat! One knows perfectly well that it'll happen to all of us at some point, but it's a shock when it happens to a longtime friend. I never met Kat face-to-face, have only known her from Mudcat chat, but will miss her voice here.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:15 AM

So very sorry to hear this; she was as special to us as anyone "here" could be. We had made a bit of "outside" connection as well, and I considered her a friend that I really hoped to meet in person some day.
                Dean in Michigan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: frogprince
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:16 AM

11:15 was me.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Megan L
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:18 AM

Morgan, Rue , Roj and any other family.

My heart weeps for your pain for you must travel on without her.
My spirit sings for she is now free to ride the breeze and dance through the autumn leaves of the trees she wrote about.

I will miss her and am honoured to have had her company and encouragement on my walk. The book Morgan set a puzzle for sits on my bedside cabinet and when nights are long I often read a page or two to settle into sleep.

Take good care of each other and be kind to yourself.

much love
Meg

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:26 AM

So sorry to hear this.
Blessings on all her family and close friends.
She certainly leaves a gap here.
-Glenn

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,LTS on the sofa
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:28 AM

Shocked and saddened to hear the news, the world is a little dimmer.

LTS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,maryrrf
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:30 AM

I'm so sorry to hear this. I never met her in person, but she was someone who always tried to hold Mudcat together as a community. RIP Katlaughing.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Cuilionn
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:31 AM

May the air and water caress her.
May the earth lovingly embrace her.
May the fire of her loving, creative spirit leap ever higher,
    delighting us with its dance,
    warming us with its light,
    singing to us, carrying the song
    of her dear, great heart.

Blessed Be.

--Cuilionn

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: artbrooks
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:31 AM

Oh. Words fail.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: voyager
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:37 AM

Many blessings to the family of katlaughing. On the Mudcat, she shared many great stories about her family's Western Life and made me feel welcome here in Colorado when we moved back in 2010.

voyager

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bfdk
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:44 AM

So sorry to hear this. Never met Kat IRL, but we chatted a bit from time to time and she helped me a lot with some genealogy questions regarding the USA. Such a lovely person, condolences to her family and friends.

Bente

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:48 AM

Oh Miss Kitty. We never had that last chat.
Rest easy, my friend.
Marigold

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:51 AM

Such sad news, and such a shock. We often corresponded about her book & my Greek ramblings. Big hugs to Roger and all the family.

RtS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: fat B****rd
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:54 AM

Just as I was feeling better about my wife's condition I saw this. Kat was always friendly and kind to me. I can only express my best wishes and condolences to her family and all her many, many friends.
Charles Stenger.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Micca
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:00 PM

I am speechless and bereft, I only spoke to her hours before she passed, My thoughts are with you Roger, Morgan and Rue, and Del and my dear friend Katie, I feel priveleged to know you all, I will need time to take this in, matbe more later

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Alice
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:04 PM

Morgan, if you are still reading this thread, I want to tell you how sorry I am that your grandmother has passed. I know she was a soft, safe, wonderful grandmother for you. I remember in the 1990's when she joined mudcat and she was so excited to find this site with all the lyrics and history of folk music. I remember how excited, happy, and in love with you she was when you were born. My thoughts are with you and your family. Take care.

Alice in Montana

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:07 PM

Thank you all very much. Morgan has been reading everyone's post. He was very concern and you were all one of his first thoughts.

Micca, Sinsull & Spaw ...I know she had be long time friends with all of you ... I'm sooo very sorry this was the only way I had to contact you with the news.

She loved the Mudcat and all of you. She wasn't able to go out much and you friends meant the world to her.

I'll be sure to like my Dad know to read the thread.

Thank you all,
Rue

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:08 PM

Shocked and saddened. And, like Micca, speechless and bereft. Hadn't talked with Kat on the phone for awhile, but will miss her so much, both here at Mudcat and in phone conversations.

Holding you, Roger, Morgan and Rue, tightly in our thoughts.

Linn (and Tom)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: theleveller
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:08 PM

Oh that is such very sad news. She (along with Joe) was always the human and good-natured face of Mudcat, pouring oil on troubled waters. I hope no-one minds if I dedicate this poem to her, which she was once kind enough to say that she enjoyed:

Ghosts are different in the open country,
unconstrained by the memories of walls.
Here they have a lightness that combines
with the beauty of the rising or the setting sun
or in the gentle rain melt to liquid joy.

You will, I know, have felt their presence
the many times you've walked this way.
Perhaps you listened to the sighing wind,
playing antediluvian melodies with the trees,
or at half-imagined footsteps, turned around
to see who, with an almost-silent tread,
had crept behind you as you stood transfixed,
to whisper beautiful, enticing words
that, just indiscernible, you longed to hear again.

I know! For I have heard them, too.
Not torn from wraiths of long-lost chiefs
who, from their barrows' vantage, still survey
the beauty of the land they ruled;
these spirits are not embedded in the earth
but, nonetheless, they have a right of tenure here.

Nor do they cry with grief, or pain of things long past,
but murmur with a deep and pure pleasure
that they are free at last – whilst we,
whose souls remain ineffably attached to earth,
cannot yet follow where they lead,
into the very essence of this land,
to commune with trees and rooks and with the winds,
and fly, with soaring gulls, to unimagined heights,
or follow on silver-shadowed, moonstruck nights
to where fox and hare have secret shadow-trysts.

In wonder, you and I can only pass along this way,
bound to a world that they have gladly left;
for they are clouds across a blameless sky
and soar, delighted, closer to the sun.

RIP Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: LilyFestre
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:08 PM

:( Oh Kat!!!!!!!!

I have no words...

You will be greatly missed.

My deepest sympathies and love to your family.

:( :( :(



LuvYaLily

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Ron Davies
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:12 PM

What can I say but repeat what's been said?   

What a shock.

And what a wonderful, wise, generous, well- informed, witty, talented, delightful woman she was.

I can't better the description given before:    "she was the cream of the crop here"

And will be terribly, terribly missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bill D
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:31 PM

................I don't know what to say. *tears*

After all of her many problems, I had thought she was overcoming most of them. She will be missed by so many in so many ways. She wrote about her family and shared it with us. I am honored to have known her for all these years.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bradfordian
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:42 PM

A kindly ear, a good friendly soul.
We still have her voice, she made a contribution to the second series of Mudcat CDs (This Is Us) singing "Tha's not my Colorado"
Condolences to her family. Rest in peace Kat.

bradfordian

And thanke to Liz for posting on fb.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: RolyH
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:49 PM

Deepest sympathy. This place wont be the same.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,frug
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:53 PM

Stunned .... RIP Kat

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 12:55 PM

So sorry to hear this sad news ... Kat stood out, for so many wonderful reasons.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:01 PM

Such sad, sad news. Kat was so good to me when I was grieving. She was an instant friend- we both joined Mudcat around the same time, and I loved her always. I got to spend 20 minutes with her 4 years ago when she and Rog came to meet the train when Hunt and I were travelling West.

Just last night, right around 7 pm Mudcat time, I was thinking of her and the Cat and how little time I had been spending on the Cat lately, and how I probably should get back in touch before too late...

Go well, sweet Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:09 PM

Very sad news. Like many others, I never met Kat but felt touched by her presence. She lives on in her writings, both here and elsewhere, and in all our memories.

DtG

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:11 PM

thank you , Brave Morgan , for thinking of us at this time,
and for posting this sad news. We are lucky to be in this
mudcat family together, and will always remember the
positive spirit and friendly, helpful ways of Kat Laughing.

I have some c.d.'s she sent with cowboy songs from her
father;s time...what a treasure! I will sing "Happy Trails"
for her!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:13 PM

I never met kat, never spoke to her, and wouldn't have recognised her on the street, but losing her is like losing a family member. The mudcat just won't be the same. Kat was at the centre of this odd community. I'm grateful for her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Will Fly
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:13 PM

It seems like only yesterday I was helping her out with the cover of her "Wind Words" book - very sad news indeed. I'm also in tears. RIP dearest Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:21 PM

Her last post here was on July 13, and bless her heart, as often was the case she was concerned for others, and sharing her love!
blessed be....

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:25 PM

A great little sister. I miss her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Penny S.
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:28 PM

Morgan, thank you so much for thinking of us. And Rue, don't be concerned about using this way of letting us know. You have reached so many who have liked and respected Kat over the years. It's going to be so odd never to see her wise, kind and thoughtful contributions again. I'm thinking of you all.
Penny

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: billybob
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:31 PM

Such sad news, dear Kat we never met but your love and support here on Mudcat was treasured by us all, it will never be the same without you.

sending love to all her family and friends who were lucky enough to meet her and know her love.

Wendy xxxx

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:32 PM

To all of Kat's family..

How wonderful to have been able to share your lives with such a lovely spirit as she had. She will be very, *very* much around you all for the rest of your lives and already she will be surrounded by many who have loved her earlier in her life, who have already passed on to the next part of their journey.

I feel Kat had a very deep Spiritual connection, not just to each of you and to many in here, but to those with whom she is now surrounded.

I know you will always be so proud of her and her Love for her family shone out in her words...and you can see how much she was loved in Mudcat.

You will never lose her Light or her Love.

Never, ever.

For now though, cry until there are no more tears left...and soon, when the time is right, you will feel the love from her in your hearts, for nothing could ever keep her away from you all.


With Love to Kat and to all of you.....

In The Light Of Love

I will send some Love up to the Stars for her tonight, over here in England.

Much love
Lizzie xx

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Barb'ry
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:39 PM

So sorry to hear of Kat's passing. May her family and all her friends have many cherished memories of her.
Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jack the Sailor
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:40 PM

RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Mooh
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:44 PM

So consistently thoughtful and kind, to me and to others. I'm so sorry we never met in person, but I'm also happy she made so many friends here.

She will be greatly missed.

Peace, Mooh.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Elmore
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:47 PM

A wonderful person who'll be missed here. So sorry

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:49 PM

Thank yo Morgan and Rue for letting us know this sad news. Kat was a lady that I would have liked to meet but who was a dear friend even just online. I have a beautiful necklace that she made for me, even more precious now.

Morgan - your grandmother was a very special lady and was so proud of you? You are so lucky to have had such a buddy. Hold onto the memory of time shared.

Love to you all. There will be many friends holding you in their thoughts right now.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:50 PM

She has awoken from this bad dream here...she is free...and the part that we knew, in her, is still VERY much alive!!
I'll take a moment here.... one year ago, almost to the day, I underwent a quadruple bi-pass, was not expected to make it, and as matter of fact, had to be revived...but I remembered, the experience to 'the other side'...I have to likened it, to 'waking up from a bad dream'.
When I talked to the cardiologist about the whole thing, this is her exact quote, "You know, I know what you are saying..in the course of the many operations that I've performed, I've lost patients on the table, I mean they died..and some of them we were able to revive, and they ALL are saying the same thing that you're saying."

My reply: "You know, on this side, sometimes you meet people who it seems like you've known for a long time, like even before you've met them, and something just resonates from heart to heart within each other, well, that's ALL there is on the other side..it's like coming into this life, we suffer some sort of amnesia, and forget who, what and where it all really is, and we think that all there is, is what information we gather from our physical bodies..it's not that way..it's bigger than that, we're gotten used to being less, and then think its ALL...until you wake up, go home, ..you remember..it ALL comes back!"
My doctor: " I believe you, you've said it clearer, but that's what my patients who've been revived tell me."

Hey Kat, We'll see you later, you'll know us when we meet again..you might not remember where from, but your heart will know, and know, that we are really all One! Nothing else mattered.
Until then, I'll give your friends this message.


Guest from Sanity

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: skarpi
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:53 PM

She will be greatly missed R.I.P dear Kat

I´ll see you in heaven

KV Skarpi Iceland .

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:54 PM

GfS, what a lovely thing to say. Thank you.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 01:54 PM

So Sorry to hear that RIP Kat!......

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,olddude
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:05 PM

Tears ... Kat was a real friend ... I can't believe this ... I am so sorry ...

heartbroken

Love you Kat

Dan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:08 PM

ClaireBear: "GfS, what a lovely thing to say. Thank you."

Because it's the Truth...
...and it is not up for debate.


Guest from Sanity

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Dave Swan
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:09 PM

We've lost a big heart, a sweetie, a good soul.

Condolences to all.

D

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Becca72
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:13 PM

There are no words.
I'm shocked and saddened by this news.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:14 PM

It was 1999 when kat first posted here - actually, it was December 29, 1998. The record shows she posted 45,527 messages here. Almost from the moment she arrived, kat changed the character of Mudcat - she gave it heart. I often disagreed with that change, but I couldn't deny it - and gradually I came to be very glad that change took place.

Kat was so sick for so much of the time she was here - but she always seemed to get through it, and she always seemed to be able to keep her good spirit. It's hard to believe she didn't make it through this last illness. Her spirit was so strong.

She was a blessing to all of us. May she rest in peace.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,MikeL2
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:17 PM

Hi

Like others here I did not"know" Kat. But here presence here was felt and loved by all.

In life it is difficult to make friends. Kat was a special person who made friends like me who did not meet her but she made me feel as though we knew each other well.

May I offer my deepest respect and condolences.

Sadly missed,

Regards

Mike from across the pond

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Little Hawk
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:17 PM

....and live on, in joy.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: My guru always said
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:28 PM

Such sad news, such a shock!

Kat was a wise and gentle soul who I would have dearly loved to meet in person. She will be missed by so many here, she has left a legacy of Love.

My condolences to all Kat's family, keep the good memories.

Candle lit at Old Keepers.
Hil

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:30 PM

A loss to us all.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Wesley S
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:32 PM

Very sad news indeed. She made us better.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Rapparee
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:33 PM

Oh. My. God.

This is bad news indeed. I can only hope that she's smiling down on all of us now.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: MBSLynne
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:35 PM

It's a long time since I've been on Mudcat but, having seen this news on Facebook I had to come on and share my sadness with everyone else. I hadn't 'spoken' to her for a long time due to my absence from the Cat but I remember her as a soft, gentle and caring person. May she be peaceful in the summerlands. My thoughts and sympathy to her family. Blessings to them and to her

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Morticia
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:41 PM

I am so sad and so sorry that this strange little community has lost it's glue. She was so kind and so welcoming with a heart as big as her dear kind soul. I will miss you, my friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: voyager
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:43 PM

Mudcat -

Here are a few 'missing links' for katlaughing, writer, critic, humorist and Mudcat anchor -

Windwords of Wyoming

katlaughing author's website

Prairie Child (e-book)

voyager

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,olddude
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:45 PM

I just talked to Spaw, he is going to call. He talked to her last night. We are share a broken heart. She was a friend to everyone here.

My thoughts, prayers and sympathies to everyone.

We love you so Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Ernest
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:46 PM

My condolences to her family too.

Mudcat - and the woeld - will be poorer without her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bert
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:47 PM

Oh NO! Not my KATMELUV.

I was lucky enough to meet her a couple of times. She had that way of making you feel that you were her one special friend.

Love on its way to Rog and family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:48 PM

Oh. My. God. I can't believe it. No words.

I just popped my nose in the door for a quick peek at what was happening, and the world changed forever. It's not so bright as it was. Permanently. I just can't take in the fact that I'll never hear her voice in this forum again.

Dear, dear Kat. Rest in peace. Can't tell you how much you'll be missed.

Bonnie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 02:48 PM

I heartily agree with all the many voices here who have expressed their loss and sadness. I can only say that in our few encounters she was a wonderful support. May she rest in piece, and to those left behind; she was one of the best.

RIP


Peter

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Suzy T.
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:02 PM

End of an era. I never got to meet her in person, but I loved her - she provided some really important ballast to this site for a long time. RIP - a life well lived!
Suzy Thompson

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:05 PM

For those of you not on Facebook, here's a glimpse of Kat, on the one occasion I got to meet her and hug her: Katlaughing and me at the Grand Junction train station.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Banjo-Flower
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:06 PM

Sorry to hear this

RIP Kat

Gerry

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bet
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:13 PM

Can't keep the tears back while reading these wonder comments about my sister. I too will miss her. Love and Peace to all.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: KT
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:18 PM

So sad, no words now, only tears for the loss of this special spirit friend...my deep condolences to Rog, Rue, and Morgan, and all of her family who I know she loved so dearly...
love to all -
KT

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:19 PM

Got Dan's text on the way home from Chemo and ...........hell, I dunno' what I am. In tears and "gobsmacked?"


Tried to call and got machines....left numbers ......like Micca, I just spoke with her last night. She sounded better and I was encouraged...said so on the Rainbow thread........Shows what I know...............sorry....too many tears at the moment......

Best thoughts for Rog and Rue and Morgan.   Morgan, you did a good job of telling us.....She was so proud of you and she would be now.....I left my numbers on the phone recorders.....Please call Call me Rue.....................

Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Desert Dancer
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:27 PM

I'm so very sorry to hear this. I had contacted her last month about meeting up briefly when I would be passing through Grand Junction, but she replied that she was not feeling up to it. So, like so many of others, I never met her but valued her role here greatly.

Much sympathy to her friends and family...

~ Becky in Long Beach

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,olddude
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:35 PM

Someone please let Art Thieme know

tears

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:37 PM

What a tribute to Kat this thread is -- absolute unanimity in a community where mere agreement normally seems unattainable. She made such an impression on so many people who never met her in "real life"... a wonderful legacy. -Glenn

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Leadbelly
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:39 PM

My god, I can't believe in this bad news! I'm absolutely sorry to hear this.
She was such a nice person. I do remember my thread 6 years ago (Buttje is in heaven now) when for several times she made warm-hearted comments to my gone cat.
Please have a look to read what she wrote to me. It was a great help to me.
Dear Kat....can't describe my feelings...sleep well...

Manfred Götze from Germany

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:41 PM

I'm sitting at work quietly crying and reading this - I'll finish reading it in a little while when I have time to myself.

Morgan, thank you so much for letting us know - you knew just how to reach us. Kat adored you and told us so much about her time with you. We've all felt like your honorary aunties - please stay in touch with us. I have Kat's phone number (and I wondered why I hadn't heard from her lately - I should have called - I'm so sorry I didn't) and I'll call in a few days and give Rog all of my contact information. If you're old enough to have an email account or a Facebook page, I will be honored if you will be my friend, and will keep my email in your contact list. You're certainly old enough to be a member of Mudcat, so if you decide to join, send a note and Joe will set you up.

Rue, I know our contact with the family has tended to skip a generation, but I want to offer my condolences. Being part of a family always means that there is unfinished business. For all of that, I hope you know how much Kat loved you, which is the most important thing to remember right now.

Rog, you have been a rock for Kat, we were so grateful you were there to help her through all of this. She wouldn't have been able to be the outgoing Kat she was without your support. The final grownup portion of this post is here to express to you our sorrow at Kat's passing and to offer any support we can from a distance. I'll speak with you later in the week.

Maggie Dwyer

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Deckman
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:43 PM

She always called me by my REAL name ... which no one else knew. Mina Raaksataan Sinua, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Mrrzy
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:46 PM

I am deeply saddened by this news. Thank you so much for thinking of us. I will certainly be thinking of you.

Katlaughing was one of the "major" characters in my Mudcat. She will be sorely missed for a long, long time.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Gervase
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 03:56 PM

Oh bugger. Hard to think that the sanest, kindest, wisest voice here for many years will no longer pour her oil onto the trouble waters of the Mudcat. She would often send me kind words and the occasional beautifully-expressed blocking, and for me she was one of the stars of this site. So sad to think that that star has gone out - here at least. RIP Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Phil Cooper
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:04 PM

Sorry to read this. Like many, I never met her, but from the few PM's back and forth she was a great presence.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Sean Breadin (Sedayne / Blandiver)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:07 PM

RIP & much respect.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,olddude
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:15 PM

The angels in Heaven are now wearing some beautiful Jewelry . She was so good at making them and so excited when I gave her some stones to use. How we will miss you my friend

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Dharmabum
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:21 PM

RIP Kat.
You're taking a good chunk of the Mudcat with you.

    DB.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,9
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:26 PM

Sad news indeed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: maeve
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:36 PM

Mudcat friends, I am weeping- at the same time I am grateful she doesn't hurt any more. Kat's kindness will be reflected each time one of us takes time to speak or write kind words. The poetry of her words will lift our hearts when we search for the right words to express pain, beauty, homesickness, joy. Kat's truths can shine a light as we search for truth. Her lovely spirit can live with us in our willingness to love others, and to speak those loves. Her strength can carry us when we do a hard thing with grace.

Morgan, Roger, Rue, Bet and her brother, the twin grandchildren, the rest of Kat's family- she was so proud of you all, and wanted your happiness and well-being. Remember that when skies grow dark, when anger flashes like lightning, when it seems too hard, too unfair.

Kat loved you. That is a wondrous and lasting gift.

I never got to sing that last song over the phone. I will miss her voice on the phone, the little gifts of friendship by mail and email, and Mudcat message.

Maeve

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: alanabit
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:48 PM

I am here less often these days, but I know Kat's is a voice we are all going to miss. She was simply one of the gentlest and kindest souls here and she is absolutely irreplaceable.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Sorcha
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:51 PM

I'm not 'here' anymore, but I had to post to this. I met Kat several times, and yes, she was as wonderful in person as in text. My condolences to her family, including Colin, her son. I also met him.

Rest well, Miss Kitty, ya done good.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Grishka
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:53 PM

Very sad. An institution and a big heart. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:56 PM

I only 'knew' Kat via the Mudcat, but I'm glad to have met her. R.I.P. Kat. Condolences to your family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 04:56 PM

Stunned and broken by this news. Kat's was that still small voice of kindness. A shining slender thread of sanity in this sometimes dark and troubled place.

I miss you already Kittygiggles.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bill D
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:02 PM

Morgan... if you go to Google and put this phrase
my grandson morgan site:mudcat.org
in the search, you will find dozens of posts about how proud & happy she was to have you in her life. Posts about what she sang to you as a baby are very moving....

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Keith A of Hertford
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:15 PM

She was the best of mudcat.
keith.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: KingBrilliant
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:24 PM

Really sorry to hear this

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Anne Lister
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:36 PM

I can only echo what so many have said - what a loss to us all.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Brakn
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:36 PM

Sad news RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Neil D
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:41 PM

I am very saddened at this news. Kat was very kind to me and offered so many words of support and encouragement when Neil had his bout with cancer and heart attack. The world is a lesser place because of it. My heartfelt condolences go out to her friends and family. RIP Kat...


                                                 Christina

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Rapparee
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:56 PM

Now that I'm somewhat recovered....

She worked to make Mudcat and the world a better place. We can honor her best by continuing what she started, and I know that she'll approve.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: The Sandman
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 05:58 PM

I am sorry to hear this news.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Spleen Cringe
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 06:31 PM

Really sorry to hear this. Condolences and warmest thoughts to family and friends. She was one of the good people.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: JennieG
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 06:42 PM

Very sad news to wake up to this morning.......condonlences to her family, especially Morgan. Kat was so proud of you!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: maire-aine
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 06:44 PM

I am so sorry to hear this sad news. We never met in person, only through Mudcat, but I feel like I've lost a dear friend. Morgan and Rue, thank you for letting us know. This is the best way to reach all of her Mudcat "family", and family we all are. We will all console each other. She was a beacon of love and light on this site, and we will miss her deeply.

Maryanne

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,alison
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 06:48 PM

like many others I don't visit mudcat often these days, but when I saw it on facebook I had to "come back" and pay my respects here.

Kat was a wonderful, generous woman, who loved her family. It was a priviledge to meet her on mudcat all those years ago.

As I said on facebook, she made me a beautiful amethyst necklace many years ago, which I will wear in her honour.

my deepest condolences to her family, and all of her mudcat friends who will miss her greatly.

rest in peace Kat


alison

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: KathWestra
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 06:55 PM

What wonderful words to remember our friend. Like Animaterra and so many others, Kat and I corresponded but never met. I am rarely on Mudcat these last couple of years, but treasure the amethyst necklace she so generously donated to the Mudcat auction (and I won). So many have commented on Katlaughing's ability to pour oil on troubled waters. Jeri said it best: "She held onto her kindness when others had forgotten to try." That's one of the loveliest epitaphs I could imagine. Sending love and condolences to her beloved family and friends. Kath

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,SINSULL
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:01 PM

My thoughts are with Morgan, Rue, Roger, Colin and Bet. Kat loved you all so much and through all the drama and crises that families everywhere enjoy/endure, she treasured each of you.
Right now I am wearing the bracelet Morgan made for me. Purples, greens, golds. It is such a comfort.
Our Kat was an amazing woman. She saw the best in each person even when they were aggravating the hell out of her. LOL The worthier the opponent, the more she loved and respected him.
Kat often spoke warmly of Joe Offer. Then she'd go after him tooth and nail.
I think it was her respect for all people and things that enabled her to see the best in each of us and bring it out.
I feel a terrible loss and at the same time a wonderful pride and sense of gratitude that Kat was my friend, my partner in crime and the sister I never had.
I love you dearly, Miss Kitty. Rest easy.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:18 PM

I'll miss ya Darlin

Leej

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Her nephew Mat
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:28 PM

Hello all. I am Kat's nephew Mat. I logged on here kind of randomly and I am taken back by the response! I have a lot of fun memories of my Aunt Lu! So many to share to anyone that wants to hear them. Let us all celebrate the life and light of Kat. Let us not wallow in sorrow, but celebrate her life, and send her off on the rest of her journey in style. So friends, sing a song for her, or drink and beer, or adopt a cat;) what ever you feel is right to honor her.

See you again one day Aunt Lu:)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Big Mick
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:32 PM

"Oh, of all the comrades that 'ere I've had, they are sorry at my going away....."

The wash of emotions flowing over me just now are hard to express. I remember when she came to us.   I remember how she "had something to say" and, like Joe, I resented it at first. But time went on and that huge, yet ailing, heart started shining through. We became friends, we fought, we agreed, we argued. But no matter what, we both loved the same thing - Mudcat. Not the server or the threads, rather the Arts, Spaws, Sinsulls, Jeris, Maxs, old dudes, and all the rest of youse layabouts. I watched as this great heart lovingly called and maintained contact with ailing friends. I read her wise words cast on the wind, and knew she was a rare being. I met her, her daughter and young Morgan on a trip to Colorado with my family and had lunch and sang songs for them all afternoon. It was a special time, and one I will never forget. I still remember the loving hug she gave me.

Morgan, it has been such a pleasure to read your beloved Grandmother's descriptions of your growing up. Take some time, young friend, and think on the lessons she taught you about love of music, love of our fellow creatures, and love of the land upon which we walk and are responsible for. Think not just of her words but also how she lived. And always remember that she lives in your heart and mind, but it is up to you to make sure her voice is heard in you. Further up in this thread, Bill D gave you a great gift. He told you how to look up everything your Gramma wrote here about you, her precious boy. And don't worry, young friend, every new CD I do, you will get a copy of.

Kat, for all the good times and some that were not, I want you to know that I will miss your genuine and authentic goodness, and the unconditional love you spread around this place. You remained my friend when I didn't deserve such friendship. My life is better for having you in it, and I am sad at your parting too soon.

"But since it falls, unto my lot, that I should rise and you should not, I gently rise and I softly call, good night and joy be with you all"

Mick

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Mary Katherine
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:41 PM

So sorry for this great loss from our small world. She was a wonderful person (although I never actually met her!) and was a great part of the reason I checked in here as often as I did - always found her posts worthwhile, or funny, or right on. Or all three. Sadness here today.

Mary Katherine

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Nathan Tompkins aka Amergin
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:42 PM

I have not been on the cat for many months now. I've just been having too much going on. I saw this a thread on the Mudcat fb page...and they were talking about her in the past tense. So, I knew I missed something tragically big.

Kat, you were always there for people, to give them a big cheering section and to make them just feel better about things even if just for a moment. I loved how you always described your moments with Morgan, and your other loved ones. You were always one of my favourite people here...and I had always wished to meet you one day. I always knew you were as genuine in real life as you were on these stark white virtual pages. Rest easy now, katlove.

Morgan, your grandma will never be far from you.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Wesley S
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:46 PM

I don't know if it's been suggested yet - but we need to get together to make some kind of lasting tribute to Kat. A scholarship, a donation to a favorite charity. Something that lasts as long as her memory.

Suggestions anyone?

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ranger1
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 07:59 PM

That's a great idea, Wes. Maybe Rog could suggest something when he feels up to it.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Celtaddict
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:05 PM

Katlaughing. Your warmth and wisdom added so much to all of our lives. Light and caring to all you loved and who loved you; hold those memories close, all. I am looking through a luvyakat-shaped hole in this world. It is not easy to change that to say
Luv ya, Kat.
You will be missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:16 PM

Ah, dearest Kat. Even in your passing you give a gift. Bringing this community together in a way that hasn't happened in a very long time. Reminding us of who we can be as a community and empowering us in a way that helps us see that capacity is not entirely gone. Look at all the connectedness Kat generated and fostered. Look at how many of us she connected with, not just here on Mudcat, but through phone conversations, letters, gifts back and forth.

Morgan, Roger, Rue, Bet, Colin, and all of Kat's family, love never dies. Not only will you always be wrapped in Kat's love, she will be forever wrapped in your love for her - and she never faltered in her love or in knowing in her tissues that her love was returned.

Morgan, your posting here to let us know reminds me so much of something Kat would have done. Thank you for your kindness.

I know what Mudcat and the relationships forged here meant to Kat. I hope it brings comfort to all of you - Morgan, Roger, Rue, Bet and all of Kat's family - to have an opportunity to see she means at least as much to us.

Wonderfully said, Sins. And Cuilionn and maeve, thank you.

Roger, you were her Rock of Gibraltar.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:17 PM

One of my favorite Kat poems...


Time goes and steals our lives
Leaving us shaking our heads in the dust
Left behind in its wake of childhood,
School-yards, partners, lovers, children, loss and love.

Left to introspection sidetracked for years
The dust settles, sight is clear, if chosen,
Paths cross or separate or veer off to the unexpected
We say, "Well, I never!" Or, "Wouldn't've believed it!"

And there we go...filling up or in time,
Making our own dust devils, feeling alive again
Dancing, crying, building up, pulling down
Opening up, closing up, and moseying along.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:21 PM

I also wanted to share this one I wrote, which she said was her favorite of mine. I never told her she was part of the inspiration for writing it. I believe she knew.


The Wyoming Transplant

She met him in college
the scion of a blueblood Boston clan
and loved him for his dry humor and moist skin
What he saw in her
was a kind of elemental force
a straight forward disingenuous directness
and the way her eyes lit up in laughter
After graduation they wed
and he took her East to a big house on the Squanacook
where the water lay placid and green
like a late-summer pond in a Rock Springs feedlot
and the hills, cool and green in Spring
hedged the sky to a steamy patch in Summer
After a year or so, even the relentless high plains wind
seemed like a happy remembrance
She climbed big hills in ridiculous hope
of seeing the distant purple and yellow
of the faraway Wind River Range
Once, a Ford pickup with golden cowboy plates
lay just ahead at a Boston traffic signal
and as she passed, laughing, called out
"take me home!" to the startled driver
whose brown rutted skin creased in a grin

After the divorce, she stayed on from habit
growing pale and weak in the wet winters and soggy summers
Until, at age 56, and leaving two grown children behind
She sold out, loaded what was left
and moved to a double-wide on a dry, rutted arroyo
in the wide country East of Rawlins
and in that raw and sandy soil
that defied her attempts at a rose garden
she herself took root at last
and flowered, thin and bright
as Indian Paintbrush

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:30 PM

I just spent some time on the phone with Roger. He is of course heartbroken but we had a nice conversation and even a few laughs. I assumed there would be no classic funeral and Rog said, "No, she'll be cremated .... and then I'll put her in with the two drawers full of cat ashes." I cracked up because I thought that was perfect. The truth is she'll be taken "home" and be where she was from.

Kat has been getting worse for a long time going through ups and downs but running into problems where everything was a trade-off for something else. After awhile this leads to a medical box that gets smaller and smaller and if you can't find better meds or treatments that work with instead of against themselves and your body the box gets smaller and smaller. Kat ran out of space and the fragile medical box collapsed around her.

No one cause......just more than she could cope with..............and she died...................and we have lost a great friend..........


Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: MMario
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:36 PM

I am more or less in shock; Morgan you did well, and Thank You!

Others express much better at these times-I just tend to go mute...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jeri
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:43 PM

Thanks, Spaw.
I've missed her posting at Mudcat and being such a strong voice for good. I'd hoped she'd improve and be around more. I knew she was having a tough time. I also was aware I didn't have a clue how tough.

I think Morgan was the brightest light in her life. I'm glad she shared his light in that glow of hers with us here.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: mg
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:51 PM

RIP. Here is a song for her..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3989jHX3sMQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3989jHX3sMQ

how about some sort of collect cd of songs and/or poems

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:52 PM

I can only hope that Kat derived as much pleasure from Mudcat as she provided.It's a poorer place without her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:57 PM

I learned on mudcat's facebook page about Kat's passing, and stopped in here to say how saddened and shocked I am. She was a beautiful, kind, giving person, the kind we wish could live forever. She will live as long as we remember her. These condolences on mudcat are a testament to an exceptional lady, and I want to send my sympathy and love to her family. Rest easy, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Katie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:03 PM

Thank you everyone... I will be printout this out for Morgan .. so he has it always no matter where he might be. Bill D.. thank you so very much for sharing how to look up all her posts about Morgan.. I'll be printing those out for him too. The more I read the more names I remember her talking about... Big Mick she would love your post .. Morgan will love any CD you send him .. he has always looked forward to them. I will be setting up a Facebook for Morgan .. for any of you that would like to stay in touch with him .. I know he has lots of Mudcat Aunties & Uncles.

Since most of the family and friends are all over the country, across the pond and other parts of the world... I was wondering if you all would like to set up a memorial service online.. I talked with my Dad and he liked the idea.. as you all know she wasn't the most traditional person.. Morgan has already written up what he would like to say for the funeral/memorial and since I don't think we'll have the "normal" service.. cause that's just not my mom... wasn't my mom .. for those that would like to help work that out or take part please let me know.... my Facebook is under Rue Erin

Please let me know if someone has talked to Art & Jackie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,kirsten kats daughter in ct
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:03 PM

My mom was my bestfriend...always there for me no matter what....she will be in my heart forever....mom....i love you always...love kirstie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: stallion
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:04 PM

a bit of a shock, like many I only knew Kat through Mudcat but this news has set me back. cannot add to what has already been said, so sad.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:07 PM

Nephew Matt and other family members, there is a wonderful wake just getting started below the line, in the BS section. Celebration of the life of Katlaughing. Please enrich our celebration with your presence if you are so inclined!


or look for the thread titled BS: Mudcat Tavern, Special Opening.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,kirsten daughter
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:15 PM

My heart is broken....my mom is one of the most amazing persons ever....beautiful in every way....

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Suffet
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:31 PM

I have been lurking far too long, but let me come out of the shadows for a moment first to shed a tear for Kat, and then to remember all the joy she brought us, including those who only knew her in cyberspace.

Requiescant in pace.

--- Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Genie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:35 PM

This news came as a shock to me, too, via Facebook, as I haven't visited the forum much recently.   Many of you have already expressed my feelings about Kat and her taking leave of this earth much better than I can.   She was one of the brightest spots and warmest souls I met on the 'Cat, and I had hoped to meet in person someday.   
I'm so glad Kat's song "That's Not My Colorado" was included on the Mudcat CD "This Is Us: Sky," as was "Morgan's Song" (performed by Morgan himself). I also still have an mp3 of Kat singing another song which we couldn't use on the CD for copyright reasons.   

We have, indeed, lost a good friend, even those of us who never got to meet her in the flesh.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:35 PM

Just got back in to Mudcat after being blocked by my AV for about a week. I was stunned to see this on FB. I had to go back to the OP on FB slightly into my first post to "make it real"... to confirm that it actually happened.

I had to fight tears to post. But... then... I had none. As I said on FB, kat wouldn't want those tears. She would simply want us to care for and look after each other as she did for so many of us.

Thank you kat... love ya. You are one of the good ones. Rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:57 PM

RIP Kat! Mudcat was made much richer by your participation! Sadly it is also rendered poorer with your loss! My deepest sympathy to your loving family!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Guest Michael William Harrison
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:25 PM

Tears and sadness at the passing of Kat. R.I.P. dear lady and know how you were loved.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stewie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:26 PM

Vale, kat. Rest in peace.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:32 PM

Aw, no! Kat was a virtual friend--virtual in more ways than one. Add me to the list of people who hoped someday to meet her.

My love and condolences to all of her family and everyone else who loved her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Padre
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:35 PM

May she rest in peace.

Padre

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Micca
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:41 PM

You know this thread made me think of what is inscribed on Sir Christopher Wrens memorial in St Pauls Cathedral, If I might rephrase it slightly (but only slightly) " If you would seek her Monument, look around you".
She was Loved and appreciated and has inspired   all whom she touched, whether it was here in Mudcat or on Paltalk, or in her writings, and I think That is an achievement given to very few.
As for me, She was one of my dearest and best friends and is leaving a hole in my life that may never fill, but she has gifted me this, I am a better man for having known her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: EBarnacle
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:50 PM

When I saw the title of this thread, my first reaction was a low, "Oh, shit! Kat's gone." Lady Hillary's response was "Where did she live?" I responded, "It doesn't matter. She was everywhere on the Cat." Ave et vale.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Neil D
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:59 PM

When I first stumbled on this forum six years ago Kat was the one who welcomed me and continued to make me welcome. To make me feel like the views I shared had worth. She provided me with so much encouragement and positivity in my dark hours and hundreds of us can say the same. Only a truly great spirit can touch so many souls and this sad old world is that much the poorer tonight.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:13 AM

love & condolences to kat's family - I'm one of the many who wanted to meet kat personally, but "only" knew thru the 'Cat.

Like them I will miss her but at least we can read her words again & again as long as the internet exists. Morgan is so fortunate to have this record of his grandmother.

Like spaw I laughed at the thought of kat & her cats ashes all mixed together.

sandra (almost dry-eyed)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bob Bolton
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:16 AM

Farewell Katlaughing,

... Another jewel dropped out of the gold band of Mudcat ...

Kat, I hope there is an even better place than Mudcat ... and you are being welcomed there!

BobB

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:48 AM

Hey Kat - please say Hi to Rick Fielding for me, and both of you sing a song or two for us Mudcatters here.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Arthur_itus
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 01:59 AM

So very sorry to hear such sad news. May you rest in peace Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Naemanson
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 02:17 AM

It feels like someone has taken a bite out of the world and now one of the most important pieces is missing.

Thinking of Kat, the family she left behind, and the rest of us who knew her through these pages.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bert
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 03:03 AM

Yes, and when you talk to Rick, tell that old bugger that he still owes me a guitar lesson. And sing a sea shanty for Barry as well.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: nutty
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 04:35 AM

I've not been on Mudcat much lately but I'm glad I signed in today as I would have hated it if I'd missed this news.

It's been said before but I'll say it again
Kat (together with Max, Joe and Spaw ) was Mudcat - she'd been here forever and her passing is such a sad loss but I can be proud to say I knew her although I never met her.

RIP Kat

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: BK Lick
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 04:37 AM

What a treasure trove katlaughing has left us in the Mudcat archives -- 45,433 posts. Scroll to the bottom of the page, click on the box saying "Posts Starting with Oldest" and settle in for a few delightful hours. Start with no. 26, perhaps, from January 1999 wherein she gave us a thumbnail autobiography and the next one expressing her delight in having found this wonderful community. We've lost another very special Mudcatter.

—BK

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bugsy
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 05:28 AM

I have been away from Mudcat for a week or so and I am so sorry to hear the news of Kat's passing.

Like many of the previous posters, I never met her but felt that we were friends.

My thoughts are with her family at this sad time.

The world is a poorer place without her.

With Love

Bugsy

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 07:36 AM

Oh no. RIP, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: YorkshireYankee
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:35 AM

Just checked in for the first time in a few weeks...
Gasped out loud when I saw the thread title.

I knew she had major health problems, but her personality was SO warm and SO full of vitality, it never occurred to me that she wouldn't pull through and be around for years to come. I, too, hoped to meet her someday...

May I suggest -- as a legacy (not the only one, of course) -- that we all try to be kinder to one another here (especially newbies). Before we post something nasty -- or even just unfriendly -- perhaps we could think of Kat and try to remember/follow her example.

A truly Great Spirit has passed.

I will give Art a call (when it gets to be a reasonable time across the pond) -- unless it becomes clear that someone else has contacted him already.

Morgan and Rue -- no apologies needed. You done good. Heartfelt sympathies to you -- and to the rest of your family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Allan C.
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:39 AM

When Bill and I stopped to visit Kat during the Adventure, we were each astonished at the wonderful and most generous welcome we received. Kat arranged and orchestrated a fantastic gathering that, through Rog's electronic wizardry, was shared throughout the Mudcat world. I know I can speak for Bill in saying that the visit with Kat was one of the very best moments of our trip.

It has been quite a while since I last spoke with Kat, but I can still recall virtually seeing her wonderful smile over the phone.

Kat, you will be sorely missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Arkie
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:55 AM

This is indeed sad news. Kat was always a positive and supportive voice on Mudcat and her presence will be greatly missed. It is hard to imagine Mudcat without her.   She gave heart to this virtual world. Greatest sympathy for those family and friends in her real world.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 09:29 AM

There are no words. Sleep well,dear one.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,foggers
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 11:34 AM

Kat was the gentle soul of the Mudcat, always a wise word and a way of being the oil on troubled waters when things get fractious. Warm thoughts to her family, and a quiet moment of gratitude for her online presence that was so enriching.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 11:54 AM

Kat you were very kind to me when I joined Mudcat and hadn't quite got the hang of the etiquette. I also hoped we might meet someday and am sorry that we shan't. All best wishes to your family and friends in this time of great loss.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:47 PM

Very grieved ~~ I always enjoyed and admired her posts, as I am sure did we all.

Revisiting an old thread about time perspectives, I found a post of hers that showed she was 21 years younger than me. Far too early to die, alas.

Adieu, Kat.

~Michael~

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Bill Sables
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:58 PM

Very sad news, I just heard from Allan C. I will never forget the time Allan and I visited her and her family while we were traveling on the "great mudcat adventure" When we arrived there was a map of the USA on her wall and she had put a piece of red wool following our route. She said 'it was an honour that we had visited her' I consider it was the other way around. It was the highlight of the whole trip. I'm sure all the real mudcatters will miss her very much.
Bill Sables

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 01:12 PM

What a great image, Bill Sables. Thanks!

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 02:53 PM

Don't worry I'll be fine
The story is just beginning
I say goodbye to my weakness so long to the regrets
And now I see the world through
Diamond Eyes

Every night of my life I watch angels fall from the sky
Every time that the sun still sets
I pray they don't take mine

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,pete from seven stars link
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 03:09 PM

when the kind and caring are carried away,the world becomes the poorer.i only knew her from posts on the rainbow thread,which she enriched by her presence, blessings   pete,

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 05:23 PM

So very sad to hear this. I met Kat here - and we shared a friendship from a distance. I treasure the conversations we had and the necklace she made for me. What a gem she was, full of caring, thoughtfulness, generosity and creativity.

~black walnut

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 06:04 PM

She called us the "twins" casting me as the Evil Twin. She would follow around cleaning up the cat litter I had covered something with and apologizing to newbies for Spaw. Too long to explain why she called me Peaches as well......Katmyluv.....I will miss her forever.

I am so glad to see so many old timers come out of the woodwork. All remember the way things were and the fun we had when the 'Cat was growing and how exuberant she was over the community and the way it was growing. It was an experience new to us all and the heart and soul she pored into it was what made it what it was. She was very sad when it went over the edge and the fun and joy left the threads.

She loved the various types of song circles and was always active in them no matter they be live or printed or recorded. She loved the poetry of folk music as much as she loved the sound. She loved to write and always had a great time in the collective story writing, this being one of his favorites....The Mudcat Juke Joint

Damn......I will truly miss you forever Katmyluv and so will Cleigh and Cletus and Paw and Buford. We'll sail on aboard The Rainbow but the crew will be lessened significantly. Damn you girl, you had no right to leave us..............

Morgan.....for you.......We have watched you grow up and watched the joy you gave her. If you want to ask us anything we'll be happy to answer, I trust in your Mom to keep us appraised of your progress into adulthood.

One last word here.............damn...............


Peaches, the Evil Twin aka Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Felipa
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:25 PM

a favourite Mudcatter
condolences

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:54 PM

Thank you Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Don Firth
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 09:15 PM

Kat gone. That was a really hard piece of news to hear.

She was one of the calmer, more intelligent, and caring people on Mudcat. She (along with Catspaw) was one of the first people to welcome me when I first started posting on Mudcat some fourteen years ago.

I regret that I never met her in person. She will be sorely missed.

Don Firth

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: YorkshireYankee
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 10:00 PM

I called Art & Carol this evening; could hear laughter, singing & banjo playing in the background. Spoke to Carol, who said some friends had come by and they were having a musical evening.

I decided it was not the time to break the sad news; told Carol I will call back tomorrow.

Carol also told me that Art has just gotten back from being in the hospital for two weeks (for a number of things - including pneumonia). I asked how he's doing now, and she said he's really perky, which is good to hear. However, he's stuck in bed for the time being.

I was concerned how this news might affect Art when he has been so unwell - so I called Chris to see what he thought... Chris told me that someone did call and tell him (i.e. Chris) on Monday - and Chris has passed the news on to Art.

Chris also said that he is hoping Art will be back online again soon, now that he's out of the hospital (apparently it was the second birthday in a row he's ended up spending in the hospital).

I suspect we'll hear from him before too long...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 10:16 PM

I spoke to Chris yesterday, figuring he would best know how to break it to him. I'm glad to hear they were having a musical evening - I bet he sang a couple of good ones for Kat.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Bardford
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:07 AM

Aw,jeez.

I don't log in to the 'Cat much more, but do loiter occasionally. A few years back I was Kat's Secret Santa, and afterwards we enjoyed some 'kewl' discussion on the PM side. She also took it upon herself to do some genealogical digging on my behalf, which was very helpful and most welcome.
My own experience with her aside, just from reading various threads and observing her interactions with the rest of this bunch over the years I felt that Katlaughing was consistently one of the most open and generous people I'd encountered, not only on the Mudcat, but on the entire internet. From what I read here, I'm sure this opinion wouldn't change had I had the chance to meet her in 3D.

Like the morning coffee crew down at the Co-op restaurant, or over at the Elks, or the Legion, you get used to seeing the regulars, and their presence defines the place, somehow. Their absence, when it happens, isn't so much an emptiness as a reconfiguring of their presence. This little cafe out here on the great strange plain of the internet has Kat's mojo embedded in it's DNA. It's gonna be weird not having her at the table, but I'll never step through the door here without being reminded that much of what is good here can be traced back to her.

Happy trails, Katlaughing.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:25 AM

Well said, bard

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:26 AM

"...I know this is a circle
And the circle never ends
I just hope that I have played my part
And been worthy of my friends"

Oh, you have, Kat, you definitely have!
RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:36 AM

What LEJ said.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Barbara
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:37 AM

I remember way back when, when Spaw was in the hospital with that aortic aneurism, Kat would call me or email me so we could send Spaw healing. She cared so much about so many people here. It leaves a great hole.
Blessings,
Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue .. to Joe Offer
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:54 AM

I talked to NightOwl .. Joe, she asked if anyone had let Max know.. since I don't know everyone Catter names/really names.. do you know if the news as been passed on to Max?

And Morgan has been checking the threaded .. he "know there would be some post but never thought it would be so many" ... thank you everyone .. your love & support has meant the world to him ... Rue

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 01:37 AM

I was told elsewhere that Max has been out of town (he goes to Montana every year). I haven't heard if he has returned yet.

Rue, how old is Morgan now? Is he reading cursive? I am going to send a card, and want to be sure it's readable.

SRS (Maggie)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bradfordian
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 03:18 AM

I have posted the lyrics of Kat's song "That's Not My Colorado" in the BS Mudcat Tavern Special Opening thread below the line, just to colour in a little more of Kat's character.

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Jon
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:07 AM

I can't pretend my own relationship with kat was not without its ups and downs but I believe any differences we had were resolved a long while ago. My own approach to the Internet has changed (in part because of my own mistakes of the past) in that (as well as only being an occasional visitor here) I generally prefer not to get personally involved these days.

That said, when I look back now and reflect upon Mudcat, kat to me does remind me of what I feel were happier, friendlier (and perhaps with hearme/paltalk, more exciting) times here.

I'm sorry to read of her passing.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stu
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:46 AM

Really sad and shocked to hear this news. I never met Kat, but it's difficult to imagine Mudcat without her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Hrothgar
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:47 AM

I am sorry she is gone.

I am very glad she was here.

RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: BlueJay
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 05:10 AM

I met Kat and Roger only once, in Cheyenne, WY. (What a great time, with K&R, and a bunch of other Mudcatters). While my Mudcat days are now mostly lurking, I am deeply saddened by this news. I always considered her to be a true friend; I hope she felt the same. Rest in peace, Great Lady. You have touched so many, for so long. Thanks, BlueJay

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Rob Naylor
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 05:51 AM

I'm another one who only knew Kat through Mudcat....but I always valued her contributions. She'll be sorely missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: M.Ted
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 08:54 AM

She was always here, and it seemed like a thread wasn't really a thread until she'd posted. Over the years we share so many "Oh, my God, am I here all alone?" moments, interspersed with thoughts about painting kitchens, and such things. Old friends who never actually met...

Very early on, she taught me something very important about writing online--and as I, and others, learned it, Mudcat and the internet, and the world changed a lot.

As a writer, she was very conscious of her voice. In the early days of the internet, most people either wrote in a kind of "Hey, Good Buddy!"voice that was heavy on jargon and short on substance, or they wrote long, meandering discourses. She wrote her posts as if they were letters from home-brief but complete thoughts, ideas, stories, advice, but always putting a picture of herself in everything she posted.

It often occurred to me that she wrote with the idea that she'd be reading it later--which is to say, she knew that you had to live with what you've put on the page.

Whether you liked what she said, or didn't, you always knew who she was. She wasn't an internet persona, or a troll, or a cyber-anything--she really was the person that you saw in her posts, and she showed us that if we to do it, too, then Mudcat could be a place just like the living room or the back porch.

So for the better part of 15 years, she was a friend, companion, sounding board, and constant presence. It's hard to imagine Mudcat without her.

As the song says, "Weep all you little rains, wail, winds, wail." We're going to miss you a lot, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bet
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 09:54 AM

M.Ted
One of Kat's favorite songs.
Such wonderful post from everyone! She found her place when she found THe Mudcat.
Thanks to all of you.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Guest.Colin
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 10:21 AM

Such great condolences. I am happy that Mom had so many friends here!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue for SRS (Maggie)
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 10:49 AM

Morgan loves cursive write =) ... though its not taught in school anymore .. he practices it on his own .. He will be 10 on Nov. 14th .. thank you

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 11:33 AM

So sorry to hear the news too.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Amos
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 01:21 PM

My warm condolences to Rue and to Morgan and to Roger. This is a hard moment for them, I know, and for all her loyal Mudcat friends as well. Chin up.

A

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,olddude
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 01:22 PM

Sometimes I would get upset at this place or at another because of some insane things that get posted here. Kat was one of the few people to calm me down, tell me how much others cared .. she had a way of touching the heart of every person who talked with her or shared a thread with her. She was the very first person to welcome me to this place. We became friends. I called her sister.

I will miss her more than I can say .. Thank you Kat for all the good you have done. You left tracks in the sand of life that we all should follow. You did it right hon .. you did it really right in this thing called life

Dan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 01:28 PM

Bradfordian - I couldn't find your link below the line, so here are Kat's words above the line, from this thread in 1999:

Subject: RE: A Song or Two for Colorado's Victims
From: katlaughing - PM
Date: 21 Apr 99 - 12:35 AM

"That's not my Colorado
With the blue skies up above,
That's not my Colorado,
Where the school ran with blood.

That's not my Colorado
Where my parents grew up proud
That's not my Colorado
Senseless killing was not allowed.

Colorado was the beauty
Of the Rocky Mountains high
Colorado was the quiet
Of the river's gentle sigh.

Colorado meant a home to me
And now, I know it not
That's not my Colorado
Where the children felt the shot."

kathleen lafrance 4-20-99
Well, phoaks, it's not a song and not the best I've ever written, but it comes from my heart which is heavy with sorrow for all the parents, children, educators and everyone else involved and for my ancestral home.

Just plain Kat, tonight there is no laughter

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 01:45 PM

bet, are you Kat's sister? I don't have all of the family connections worked out.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Crowhugger
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 02:31 PM

What sad, sad news to read. Oh my, I can hardly absorb it... kat I'll miss you. Such a hole there now where you used to be. All my love and condolences to Roger, Morgan, the whole family. And to everyone here at mudcat.
~CH.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 02:48 PM

Maggie and others......Rue and Kirsten are daughters and Colin is her son.

ALSO---Keep an eye out for one additional thread which Rue requested and which we will do....I'll start it late Thursday night or Friday.....This is a chemo week for me so it could be either.


Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: melodeonboy
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 03:00 PM

Condolences.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Kim C
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 03:23 PM

:-(

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue - SRS
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 03:41 PM

Bet is my aunt & Kat's sister.. Mat is my cousin & Bat's son .. he posted further up in the thread ..

Thank you everyone!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Dorothy Parshall
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 03:56 PM

I had no idea that Kat was so ill. I had hoped to have time. One of life's lessons; sometimes there is no more time. But my feeling is that Kat remains with us, living in our hearts and minds, with us in the spirit. Morgan was so gifted to have her this long. all his life he will have good memories and will know what she would tell him whenever he stops to wonder.

This verse came to me as I read the thread. So shall it be:

May the long time sun
Shine upon you,
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on.

kundalini yoga - farewell blessing

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bassen
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:15 PM

Her kindness kept me here all those years ago. The Norwegian poet Wessel's words come to mind:

We sigh because her life is o'er
We remember her
And smile once more.

For Kat, who was called Little Norwegian as a child.


Sverre Johan Svendsen

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Peter T.
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:49 PM

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.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Monique
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 04:51 PM

Just back home from a trip. I'm so sorry to hear the news, she was such a wonderful woman, so nice and so caring. I can hardly believe she passed away. May you rest in peace, Kat!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 07:08 PM

Yes, SRS, Bet is Kat's sister. Bet, you and I have been in touch on and off, as music teachers. I'm feeling for you and your family these days. Much love flowing your way!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Joybell
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 07:22 PM

Such sad news. Our thoughts go out to all Kat's friends and family. We talked with Kat on the phone once from New Mexico. We'd hoped to meet up but that wasn't to be. We exchanged songs and poems and happy messages over the years, but we never met. Joy and Hildebrand in Australia.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From:
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 07:29 PM

Sad, sad news. I 0nly knew Kat from hearme and paltalk. Happy days. RIP Kat                                                                      Scalliwag

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 07:48 PM

Hi Peter. Lots of old faces showing up the last couple of days. I'm sure Katlaughing would be smiling to see all of us together here again.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bet
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 07:48 PM

Yes Bassen, I had forgotten that we called her out little Norwegian. Still remembering the good times.   Bananana splits after Christmas shopping was a real treat. I was in high school then so she was probably 6-8,9 when we did that.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 09:12 PM

LEJ... "I'm sure Katlaughing would be smiling to see all of us together here again."

She is... because we are in her memory. My tears are gone. Just smiles from now on... and thanks... for kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 10:08 PM

M. Ted, what an insightful analysis. A real tribute to Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 11:17 PM

Sincere condolences to Kat's family and friends. We'll sing a song for her tomorrow night in Texas.
- Phil

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Haruo
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 11:53 PM

Been a couple days since I check the 'Cat and to see this at the top of the queue... how terribly sad for all who knew her here and elsewhere, even those of us who only knew her "virtually".

I'll sing for her at the next song circle or chantey sing I make it to.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:05 AM

Good to hear from you, Haruo. Kat's special gift was to bring people together here. The gift that just keeps giving.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: georgeward
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:23 AM

I cannot think what I might add to what has been said so well here by so many, so many of whom knew Kat more personally (even when "only" electronically) than I did.

I also cannot imagine not posting to honor someone whose great heart so enriched this place and whose soul shines through every one of these posts.

Honor her ? Love what she meant to this community ? Hate to imagine it without her ? Yes, forever and aye.

- G

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: freda underhill
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:37 AM

thank you Kat for your kindness, insight, wisdom and compassion.

here is a song for your passing

Gracias a la Vida

and here is a translation of the words to the song

Thanks to Life
(written by Violeta Parra)

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me two beams of light, that when opened,
Can perfectly distinguish black from white
And in the sky above, her starry backdrop,
And from within the multitude
The one that I love.

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me an ear that, in all of its width
Records— night and day—crickets and canaries,
Hammers and turbines and bricks and storms,
And the tender voice of my beloved.

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me sound and the alphabet.
With them the words that I think and declare:
"Mother," "Friend," "Brother" and the light shining.
The route of the soul from which comes love.

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me the ability to walk with my tired feet.
With them I have traversed cities and puddles
Valleys and deserts, mountains and plains.
And your house, your street and your patio.

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me a heart, that causes my frame to shudder,
When I see the fruit of the human brain,
When I see good so far from bad,
When I see within the clarity of your eyes…

Thank you to life, which has given me so much.
It gave me laughter and it gave me longing.
With them I distinguish happiness and pain—
The two materials from which my songs are formed,
And your song, as well, which is the same song.
And everyone's song, which is my very song.

...............

with love and respect, freda

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Ebbie
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 03:05 AM

Wonderful words.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 05:37 AM

Death Notice July 25, 2013
Grand Junction Sentenal

http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/death-notices-july-25-2013


Kathleen Louise LaFrance, 60, Clifton, died July 21, 2013, at her home.

Services are pending through Palisade Funeral Home.

Mrs. LaFrance was an author.

Survivors include her husband, Roger; one son, Collin of Loveland; two daughters, Kirsten Josiah of Gratin, Conn., Jerusha of Clifton; one brother, Delton Hudson of Grand Junction; three sisters, Betty Landon of Phoenix, Ariz., and Priscilla Chaney and Rebecca Hudson, both of Casper, Wyo.; and three grandchildren.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

So long old paint.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Max
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 05:40 AM

She would often call me by accident and we'd have the loveliest, most monumental conversations. Joy is less in this world now. Words cannot express how much I luvyakat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 08:53 AM

Kat and I shared ancestry stories and great movies on line. Never met her in person but lots of e-mail's were shared as well. A great loss to Mudcat and all who knew her.
Adrien (aka BEER)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Hollowfox
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 11:30 AM

I've been trying to find the right words for a few days now, and georgeward's post says it perfectly. Katlaughing was here for me when I joined the 'Cat all those years ago, and although she didn't know it, her posts were a big help to me when I needed a kind word and a helping hand. Shhe was my first secret Santee in the first gift exchange, and I'm still proud that I surprised her with stuff that was just right, Missyakat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Delton Lorenzo Hudson
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:11 PM

I am Katlaughing's brother. Her passing is so hard for me to accept. My heart aches. She was intertwined with my life and my music. (I'm a Classical composer.)A beautiful Soul.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Del-- Kat's Brother
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:27 PM

Right now I don't see how life can go on without her, but I know it must. I lovingly thank all of you on the Mudcat Cafe for your wonderful thoughts and remembrances of her. You were all a lifeline for her, and it looks like she was a lifeline for a lot of you. I lived with her and Roger and family back East for 7 years, and know how she loved and chrished her beloved kitties and dogs. I am glad Roger has the ashes she saved of them to be mingled with hers! I think she is now dancing and laughing with them where she is, since our Beloved pets who have passed are the among first to greet us,as Sylvia Browne and other psychics explain in their books. Thanks to you all, Del

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: maeve
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 12:31 PM

Del, many of us know your beautiful music very well. Kat was so happy for you when we could enjoy your compositions. Thanks for that! I hope you will keep on composing and making your music available. Kat was proud of you and loved you.

Maeve, in Maine

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Azizi
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 01:05 PM

My condolences to Katlaughing's family.

The good she did lives on.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Crowhugger
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 01:11 PM

Del, it's very good to hear from you. Kat talked about you and shared your music with us. It was obvious to me that she loved you and was very proud of you as well as admiring of your creativity.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: frogprince
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 01:44 PM

Del, I generally go by my middle name, Dean, but a few years ago Kat and I caught on that you and I have the same first moniker.

             Delton Dean Elkins, in Michigan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: voyager
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 01:59 PM

Friends and Family of katlaughing -

Here is a bit of Western family lore and geneology that kat shared with me when we moved back to Colorado -

"My maternal grandmother's family came from Kansas in a covered wagon when she was a little girl. The original farm, outside of Boulder, well, inside now, but still preserved, was on what is now 95th (I think) and is in a special book on old farms in Colorado. It was the "Ewing" farm and my mom's cousin still lives there. It was my grandmother's sisters who so tragically died of TB and are buried in Niwot. I'm not sure why that cemetery, but that's where their parents are, too. My grandma wrote all about it. Last I knew, the Boulder library had a copy of her memoirs. Her name was Flora E. Ewing Youmans. She went to the Normal School at the original first building at CU and became a teacher.

My maternal grandfather, M.L. Youmans first came to Erie, CO from PA and had a store there where he met my grandma and they married. They relocated to New Castle on the Western Slope which is where my mom and her siblings were all born and raised"

A fine story told.
voyager

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 02:08 PM

Del... thanks.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Del Kat's Brother
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 04:26 PM

Crowhugger, Thank You for sharing! I keep remembering things-- About 2 months ago two of her favorite flowers in her garden, Basket of Gold and Colorado Blue Columbine had died. She was sobbing her eyes out. I got some new ones for her and planted them and watered them to get them started. I thought nothing of it at the time,but now I think her sobbing was a sign, a presage of what was to come soon. I think it troubled her that she could not get around and do her flowers and stuff. And believe me now when I tell you I am SO glad I gave her the flowers! You never know...If you love someone, tell them NOW. Don't wait...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jeri
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 04:48 PM

I read some of what she wrote recently as cleaning things up a bit, making a softer closure.

Del, everyone who "knew" her here knows how much she loved you. Keep remembering--it makes the memories stronger, so they last. The memories are that part of her that lives on in you. I love that you planted flowers for her. It was always about more than the flowers.

She sent me beads a couple times. Things she couldn't figure out how to use. The first batch, I'm sure there were some she liked but just wanted to share something nice with me. There were turquoise chips and amethyst chips and pearls. The last batch, I'm positive she added some beads she thought were more interesting. Everything was white or clear, but then, there was this pack of emerald green glass leaves. I still haven't done anything with the second batch, but there are beads from the first in many of the things I've made

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 05:01 PM

What RAP said: "She worked to make Mudcat and the world a better place. We can honor her best by continuing what she started, and I know that she'll approve."

We can remember her best by following Kat's example...here, and beyond!

I now have a re-newed interest in having the mudcat compilation disc,
"This Is Us" so I can listen to Kat when I need to hear her voice.

It occurs to me that might be one way to do a good deed in her memory..
to order the set of C.D.'s if in fact there are some still available.
That would support the mudcat, and keep our music alive, including Kat's (and morgan's?)

Anyone else want to join me in this?

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Peter the Squeezer
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 05:33 PM

I never had the privilege of meeting Kat in person, but her work, together with her posts on the 'cat have served to make us all so much more aware of our duty towards our planet and all the life upon it.

My thoughts are for Morgan and all her family at this very sad time.

RIP Kat - You have proved a great earth mother to us all.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: CupOfTea
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 05:58 PM

Like so many of the fine, fun, wonderful voices on Mudcat, Kat was someone whose posts I read, nodded, smiled at... but I never reached out and made that personal connection. Her passing, and what I've obviously missed by not expressing my enjoyment of her presence here hits me hard.

It makes me realize how I need to fight against the lethargy I live in and not miss the chance to get to know others who I admire from afar. (That would indeed be easier if my @#$%^&!@ brand new upgrade of Windwos Internet Explorer hadn't hung up the first (seriously) 8 times I tried to access this thread.)

I wasn't a friend, I didn't know her, we never spoke, but I hope her family knows that there are likely hundreds of people like me whose lives peripherially touched Kat's, and were lifted by it in small ways that DO COUNT, if any keeps score of Good in the Universe.

Joanne in the folk wasteland called Cleveland

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 06:06 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDDyyDjWM_0 I coulldn;t help thinking of KAT and the CAT when i head this "Sing Me Back Home" by Merle Haggard

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Alice
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 06:26 PM

Del, Kat was so proud of you and I remember over the years that she would mention many times on Mudcat that her brother is a classical music composer. It was obvious how much she loved you and Morgan and all her family and loved sharing tidbits of memory about you all.
My sincere sympathy.

Alice in Montana

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 07:16 PM

clicky for open mike's link to the Merle Haggard song.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDDyyDjWM_0 I coulldn;t help thinking of KAT and the CAT when i head this "Sing Me Back Home" by Merle Haggard

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 07:18 PM

Or not.

One more try, open mike. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDDyyDjWM_0

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 08:10 PM

Journey Round the Sun


JOURNEY ROUND THE SUN
1
When I think of all the friends I used to know
Scattered now to places I don't go
Chasing lovers and careers
As we carry on this journey round the sun
Memories are passing one by one
Like moving pictures made from these restless years

2
Looking back on all the struggles lost and won
As we carry on this journey round the sun
Time has dried up all the tears
And the gold dust of experience remains
To be used to buy us freedom from the chains
And teach us how to fly from these restless years

Chorus
Standing on the edge of time with history fading far behind us
Searching darkly for the key
Sensing something undefined and wrestling with a greater mind for
Who am I and why are we
And as step by step discovery it goes on
In this never-ending journey round the sun
Wheels keep on turning round through these restless years

3
Living always in the shadow of the gun
In the wandering of this journey round the sun
Darkness never disappears
But as love flows through the bad times and the good
Connecting us in ways not understood
And lighting pathways drawn through these restless years

Chorus

4
Generations flowing onwards one by one
As we carry on this journey round the sun
Mystery hanging in the breeze
And as We look out on the trackless fields of time
With always one more mountain still to climb
To touch the stars we see through these restless years

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 09:06 PM

How about repeating some of these in the thread named "A LAST SONG CICLE FOR KATLAUGHING?

Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jul 13 - 09:09 PM

A LAST SONG CIRCLE FOR KATLAUGHING


Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ragdall
Date: 26 Jul 13 - 01:24 AM

Morgan,
   Thank you so much for thinking of us and for posting the sad news that your Grandmother will no longer be adding her wisdom and caring to threads on Mudcat. I will miss Kat's presence here very much and send hugs to you, your mother, your grandfather, and all your family.

I hope you know that you were/are the sunshine in Kat's life and what a great help you were to her? When Kat told us about you we could see how happy you made her and how proud she was of you. I hope that you and your mum will check in with us from time to time and let us know what a fine man you are growing into.

Hugs,
rags

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,peregrina
Date: 26 Jul 13 - 05:20 AM

I haven't been posting here, but I looked in and was devastated by this news.

Kat shared so much warmth, generosity, wisdom, love of music, nature, and family, plus good writing and enthusiasm for life here--an inspiring, radiant spirit. I am so moved by how much, and how freely, she could reach out and give for others, and for mudcatters individually and collectively, when things were uphill in real life. To Morgan and her family, I wish you all strength.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,saulgoldie
Date: 26 Jul 13 - 12:35 PM

Very sorry to hear this. RIP, Kat. Condolences to her family.

Saul

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Sheila
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 11:01 AM

The way Kat signed her posts is indicative of the warmth and encouragement she gave to so many in this international community. My deepest sympathy.
Sheila

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 05:27 PM

Kat was such a devoted networker. She cultivated relationships, contacts, connections. Kept up with folks. A lot of folks. That was a hugely important role that fostered continuity in this cyber-community. Her proclivity for making those personal connections, whether thru e-mail, pms or phone calls functioned as a "central hub" for Mudcat.

I am reminded of this after seeing a thread to which Louie Roy posted, and in the process realized he has not posted since April. He hasn't posted to any of the threads regarding our Darlin's passing. He might be fine and just no longer on Mudcat, but I recall he was having some serious health problems and is no spring chicken. Kat is the only person on Mudcat who would know if he is OK or not.

Kat is not able to answer that question anymore.

Kat was the "go to" person - the folk most likely to know if some one who disappears from sight is even still alive. I know I myself am not a good networker. If I lived where no one else in my immediate circle was plugged into Mudcat and died, no one on Mudcat would know. It is not arrogance on my part to think that there are Mudcatters who would care to know if I died. It is my awareness of the caring that exists here.

Virtual communities still depend on connection beyond the internet for continuity. So share your phone number folks. Not just your cell phone, but your home phone (assuming you have one) with at least one other Mudcatter. And call one or more of those phone numbers every now again, just to say "still on earth."

Spaw and Micca are both really good about calling folks up, but Kat was our "central clearinghouse" for keeping tabs on folks who otherwise have dropped out of sight on Mudcat.

Just noting another way she was so important to this community. I don't know that any one person is willing or able to fill her shoes in that respect. Let us spread it around.

Miss Kitty, Mudcat is going to miss you in ways we don't yet realize.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,DEL-- Kat's Brother
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 10:40 PM

Maeve in Maine,Thanks for the post. Right now it feels as though the music has died and I will write no more notes--but we can't let that happen, Kat would not want that, and we can't let the music die in this world. I am just awed and comforted by all the posts about her. So good of you all!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,DEL
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 10:51 PM

OK, Delton Dean! I of course am Delton Lorenzo! Thanks for sharing--

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,DEL
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 10:59 PM

Jeri, Thanks for sharing about the beads, she sent you. I held her in myk arms when she was a Baby in North Dakota! It just can't be that she has left us--for now...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ranger1
Date: 27 Jul 13 - 11:01 PM

Del, write something for her, so that she never leaves us. I think our grief is made more bearable when we do something creative to keep the memory of our loved ones alive.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 28 Jul 13 - 07:47 AM

How sad!

I don't log on to Mudcat often these days, but every time I do some bad news seems to be waiting. Now it's Kat.

Like most posters, I never met her in person, but I enjoyed and admired her posts. I admired her even more when I learned what adversity she had to cope with due to her poor health. It's good to know she had such a close and supportive family circle.

We exchanged PMs while she was working on her father's book and I was doing a similar project. She was an inspiration, and as has been said, Mudcat won't be the same after her passing. RIP, katlaughing!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 28 Jul 13 - 04:46 PM

Darn! I have tried to find the Obit online with an option for a note of condolence... been searching for a half hour using garg's post re Palisade Funeral Home but came up with nothing. Anyone?

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Murray MacLeod
Date: 28 Jul 13 - 05:14 PM

I don't check into Mudcat these days as often as I should, and this news is truly a shock. Kat and I exchanged PM's every so often back in the day, and I would just like to copy and paste one of them here. We had been discussing Roy Buchanan's recording of "Sweet Dreams", as well as the insane outpourings of the manic fundamentalist endtimes preachers.

From        Title        Date        Archive        Delete
katlaughing        Re: Sweet Dreams        20 Sep 2006 05:55 PM                

Message:
Hi, Murray,

Sorry this has taken me so long to get back to you,. I didn't know Buchanan's history until i looked him up after your comment. My educations on the Mudcat continues..:-) I can certainly appreciate some incredible electric guitar, though, education or not! I found his version very haunting and poignant. Thanks, again.

I don't know what to think of the endtime idjits. I knew they were out there. I don't think they are the majority BUT they do sell, i.e. movies, talk show guests etc...viewers seem to be eating up any of the fear-mongering stuff these days thanks, imo, to the shurb et alia.

The best thing any of us can do, anywhere, is to speak up and let other folks know about it and how we believe/feel about their *views.* I still have a lot of faith in the human race and I DO believe good people can prevail, that includes you and a bunch of other Mudcatters.:-)

Take care and don't lose any sleep over it, okay?

luvyakat

R.l.P. Kat ... luvyatoo ...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,JTT
Date: 28 Jul 13 - 05:23 PM

Ní bheidh a leithéad arís ann. A long sad time of sorrow and regret lies ahead for those who loved katlaughing, until the sad memories gradually give way to fond laughter and the embrace of remembering the best and kindest.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 05:05 AM

I have got my leave. Bid me farewell, my brothers!
I bow to you all and take my departure.

Here I give back the keys of my door --
and I give up all claims to my house.
I only ask for last kind words from you.

We were neighbours for long, but I received more than I could give.
Now the day has dawned and the lamp that lit my dark corner is out.
A summons has come and I am ready for my journey.

R Tagore

I don't say much on here and don't say much anywhere really but This is where I come each day to see how the folks are doing. Been waiting for what felt to me to be the right words to the loss of Kat. The ones above turned up this morning.
I'll miss you from here Katlaughing.
One light, though the lamps be many
Al

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Brian Peters
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 07:19 AM

One of the kindest and most positive people on here. A grievous loss to this community. The love pouring out here says it all.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,gillymor
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 02:37 PM

Such a kind, gracious and interesting lady. This is heartbreaking.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,john from hull
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 06:54 PM

very sad news, my thoughts are with her family at this sad time.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 08:22 PM

So gooooood to see you here, jfh. A really testament to Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 29 Jul 13 - 10:32 PM

One of the sad things about Kat being gone is that most people who post here start with something like: I don't come here very much any more...

I hope we can change that...I know I check in more often just as a memory of Kat and perhaps we all can step up and keep in touch more just as a way to honor her and the way she connected and networked with everyone here!

We used to have member info posted under the drop down menu for members photos and info....I guess that is no longer active?

it used to be a place you could look to find where mudcatters lived
and find their e-mail addresses and other info...I guess that went away when the "help" function ceased to continue?

We do have P.M.'s and the Mudcat face book page as ways to connect.
Please do---connect---do it for Kat!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 12:32 AM

This thread says Kat / Latie does it mean "Katie"?
Is Jerusha the same as "Rue"? I am looking for Kat's family tree...
I recall she did genealogy research and I wonder if the tree has
been posted anywhere??

I hope all her work has been saved, and is available to family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: open mike
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 12:38 AM

Was Kat born in North Dakota? it must have been in 1953, as I just turned 60, my own self.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Dave Swan
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 10:53 AM

One of her charms was that the Kat you got in person was the Kat who posted here, emailed, and called on the phone.

Sweet, warm, absent of artifice.

The genuine katlaughing. There is no substitute.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: John on the Sunset Coast
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 11:19 AM

I am so sorry about the passing of Kat. She was one of the first people I posted a response to when she was looking for lyrics to a song for her father, I believe it was, when I was relatively new, here.
She will be missed. My condolences to her family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,WYSguest
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 04:48 PM

RIP Kat. May you shine in peace.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bearheart
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 06:01 PM

I recently returned to Mudcat after a longer hiatus than usual. Due to a virus I just got back on line after nearly a week. Shocked at the news. A sweet and highly conscious soul, a bright and intelligent mind, a creative and loving heart-- that was Kat to me.

Back in the day I considered Kat one of the kindred souls on the 'Cat, like many she was one of the first to welcome me, but more than that we shared a similar spiritual view and often talked of things besides music. I was pretty innocent when I first joined, and was really unfamiliar with the kind of negative behavior that has become common on the net, and which would occasionally surface here. Naively I felt that hostility and cruelty didn't belong in a place devoted to music-- the love of my life. What I DID love about Kat-- and truthfully, most Mudcatters--was their dedication to music and this community.
When some one got critical or vitriolic, Kat was often the one who would notice and salve the wound. Often I would end up joking about it! She also was one of the small community of people here who understood the spiritual space that inspired my own creative direction, and I wish now that I had continued to share with her; I know she would have been a most appropriate mentor. I feel that loss too now.
As I read this thread, I see many of the people who likewise made this community special to me-- offering knowledge, and more so wisdom; encouragement; the pure love of the music; and the willingness to be real.
I'm doing a lot these days to protect my community from fracking. and there are lots of other distractions-- but I want to be here more. I don't want to make the same mistake of believing you will all be here forever. I want to enjoy your presence as I wish I had enjoyed hers more. I have no doubt that Kat knew exactly what lay on the other side of that doorway and that she has made her way to the ancestors easily and effortlessly, and I feel sure she watches over all those she loves as she always has done. I wish comfort to all who grieve her, and I am sure I will stop crying SOON.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bobert
Date: 30 Jul 13 - 08:06 PM

Okay, I gotta do my testimonial...

When I first came here I pissed off some folks and was gettin' the blast from a couple ol' timers who had been here a couple years and didn't want no new whipper snapper comin' in and shakin' on stuff...

Ya'll know who you are...

Then I got a PM from Kat that was filled with grace explaining how I might better fit in on one hand but also encouraging me to keep shakin'...

That was the beginning of a long, caring relationship between us over the years with her just recently sharing information about doing a self-published book...

Luvya, Kat...

B~

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Steve Parkes
Date: 31 Jul 13 - 03:26 PM

Oh, what sad news. I've only just found out ... goodbye and God bless, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Don Meixner
Date: 31 Jul 13 - 04:08 PM

I learned this news from Seamus Kennedy and Mick Lane. I was surprised to say the least. I had know Kat's health was not strong but I din't know it was this weak.

Kat had a similar reaction to things as my sister. Immediate concern and worry and then a "let me think about it a bit." Passionate but never irrational.

She loved art, and poetry, and the history of the west. She had great taste in jewelry. And while I have been a sketchy resident is these rooms of late I always looked for kat's postings to catch up on.

I will miss her.

Don

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: KT
Date: 31 Jul 13 - 05:44 PM

I check in to this thread often, and haven't posted much 'cause I just can't find the words. Like so many who've expressed it so well, kat was a huge part of my experience at Mudcat. I so miss her daily presence here, and I miss her phone calls which delighted and surprised me beyond telling. At the same time, I feel that she's very much here with us. I think of her so often, when I check in here, or when I'm in the mountains and see an eagle or raven soaring high above, or when I see something of beauty that I know she too, would love.

To her dear family, here's one more heart that shares the pain of her leaving. May you find comfort and joy in your sweet memories of her.
KT

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Crowhugger
Date: 01 Aug 13 - 02:25 AM

I second ranger1's hope that Del will write something for kat. Guess I figure a lot of us will do that...create something with our grief.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bbc
Date: 01 Aug 13 - 10:11 PM

I dropped by, tonight, & stumbled, unknowing, onto the "Last Song Circle" thread. By way of that, I found myself, shocked & heartsore, here. kat was a great soul & the heart of our community. Although the two of us never met in person, we, definitely, met by heart & soul. The world is better for her having been in it. Blessings & condolences to her loved ones. Rest in peace, my dear; this part of the journey is complete!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 02 Aug 13 - 01:28 PM

Innit it a grand testimonial that SO many people have posted on Facebook and here that they were "shocked", "saddened" and so on.

These alone tell all and sundry what a wonderful person she was in life and is< and will be, in our hearts and minds.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Llanfair
Date: 02 Aug 13 - 03:25 PM

I've only just heard. Kat was the soul of the Mudcat, and, although her spirit is now free, she will always remain a part of this community.

MissyaKat.

Bron.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 02 Aug 13 - 03:28 PM

Barb I am so sorry......You are another of the old timer's that I somehow forgot to notify and that is inexcusable on my part. I don't know how to apologize but to simply ask your forgiveness.

Very sorry old friend.....Much Love


Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: folk1234
Date: 02 Aug 13 - 04:48 PM

Last week an unknown force, probably the Muse, gently guided my hand as I typed "Mudcat". To my shock I found this thread. I can only second with the higest enthusiasm all the heartfelt tributes by her many Mudcat friends. I remember one episode around 2000 when Moon Child and I battled with words for over a month to see who would earn a handmade necklace from Kat. Moon Child won and I was happy. To my surprise and joy, Kat sent a beautiful necklace (for my wife Carol) she was making for her mother, who died before it was finished. Kat, of course, would not accept payment. She said she was fully pleased that we would enjoy the gift. We did. Carol still wears it.
Thanks Kat for your friendship. May the heavenly chords you now hear, be happy chords.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: bbc
Date: 02 Aug 13 - 10:45 PM

No need to apologize, Pat. I feel so sorry for your loss. You & kat always had such a special connection. She was such a warm lady!

Love to you,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Skivee, guesting in
Date: 03 Aug 13 - 01:03 AM

I've been away from mudcat for a while and just getting this sad news. What an awful shock.
She was one of the mainstays, and a decent woman.
This grieves my heart full sore.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: pavane
Date: 03 Aug 13 - 01:41 PM

So sorry to hear this

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue > Open Mike and others
Date: 04 Aug 13 - 12:42 PM

Rue = Jerusha ...

The funeral was supposed to do the Obit .. so I will need to call them and find out what is going on

All of her family history is saved =)... was too important to her not to keep .. and Latie is a typo .. Morgan created the post .. He knew how important the Mudcat and of you were to her.. thank you all

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Aug 13 - 12:54 PM

RUE....Can you please call me?

Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Megan L
Date: 04 Aug 13 - 01:46 PM

Rue my dear tell Morgan we are so proud of him he did what so many adults would never have thought of at such a painful time. He thought of those who were afar, those who were not family and real life friends, people who even had she been healthy may never had got the chance to meet her. He has taught us all a lesson in including others in our life.

As for the Katie Latie I think it was rather fitting for she certainly was the cream in that great coffee pot that is the mudcat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Crowhugger
Date: 05 Aug 13 - 12:39 PM

Ditto Megan L, and many thanks to you Morgan both for making the original post and for that which your actions taught and reminded us.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Aug 13 - 07:33 PM

Bright blessings for her life and what she gave to this world. Rest easy and free of pain.

Clare

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST
Date: 30 Sep 13 - 08:55 AM

I'm so sorry to be so late to this thread but I haven't visited Mudcat for a very long time. My most sincere condolences go to Kat's family. What a lovely woman she was and I remember her with great fondness. She had that lovely, honest, motherly way about her and she is a great loss to so many which is evident by this thread. The last PM I ever received on Mudcat was from her and I am truly saddened that it was to be the last PM.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST,sapper sans cookie
Date: 30 Sep 13 - 09:06 AM

I echo the words and feeling of the guest before me. Another voice silenced too soon.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Den
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 08:42 AM

The guest (30 Sep 13 - 08:55 AM) was me. I forgot to sign in.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: JenEllen
Date: 01 Oct 13 - 11:14 PM

Such sad news. My heart goes out to the family. She did have a lovely, motherly way, but she was also wicked fun to the core. In the bottom drawer of my jewelry box I have a set of pasties she sent me, along with a bottle of tequila shaped like a naked lady. I think they are coming out tonight. Thanks, and rest easy, dear one.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: BK Lick
Date: 02 Oct 13 - 02:25 AM

In case you'd like to know a bit more about this lovely person, here's how she introduced herself when she joined the 'Cat fifteen years ago (clicky).

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Amos
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 06:51 PM

We sang her ashes into the tide with "Sweet Wyoming Home" at the Getaway in West River, Maryland, this last week, and later raised a round of "Ashes on the Sea" in her affectionate memory. There were other portions of her ashes sent to others, elsewhere, so her presence will be resonating around the country for some time to come.

A

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: YorkshireYankee
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 08:31 PM

We mark the passing of a generous spirit...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 10 Oct 13 - 10:55 PM

I love what you did with Kat's ashes at the Getaway. I hope others will post what they do with her ashes.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 12:53 AM

Thank you all for your kind words .. this post and many others will be printed for Morgan so he can read them whenever he needs to.. my Dad has sent ashes all over and I do hope everyone posts what memorials they have had for mom .. Morgan would love to read about them. The greatest salute to mom would be for all of you to continue what so many of you start here. Stay in touch check in often and share your love of music. The is no obit as of yet. I know some have asked about where to find it. I can't seem to bring myself to write one, it would mark the final verse in a all to short life song that was my mom. One that I can't find words to write. Mom and I had our ups and downs as all family does. But I can't tell you what it means to be able to come here and read all that you have written. It helps me to remember so many thinks I have forget over the years. Morgan misses her terrible. It does help him to fall to sleep at night listening to CD's mom gave him of music you all put together over the years. So all of you have help with one of the most difficult times of his young life. I can't thank you enough for that.
Take care and greatest wishes to all of you for your kind words and love.

Every night of my life
I watch angels fall from the sky
Every time that the sun still sets
I pray they don't take mine..

Rue

ones of the first songs I learn to sing was Country Roads. Mom use to laugh telling folks I how I would chime in at the top of my lungs on the last part of the chorus.

All my memories, gathered 'round her
Miners' Lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye

I hear her voice, in the morning hour she calls me
The radio reminds me of my home far away
And drivin' down the road I get the feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday

Country roads, take me home

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 01:20 AM

thanks for posting, Rue & for your lovely words.

love to you, Morgan, your Dad & the rest of your family

sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Megan L
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 03:25 AM

I did not ask for her ashes since that is not my belief but on the last bright day of autumn I went to the place where we scattered Dauvit's ashes.

The sunset glowed of the boathouse as it gave us one last glance from across the water before it slid to sleep behind the hills of Hoy.

There I spoke the words of farewell and freedom.


Go my friend, go in peace, dance on the winds that ancient breath that flows around the world.
Go my friend, go in love, glitter among the stars and ride the tail of comets, in the rustle of the wind in the trees I will hear your laughter.
Go my friend, go in joy, skip lightly on the waters, I will see you at the loch when the sun sparkles on the lapping wavelets.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Bill D
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 10:31 AM

Rue...I have photos of the Getaway group ceremony (mostly for Morgan...I can either email them privately of post them publicly according to your wishes.)

I also have 2 requests for ashes to be sent that I don't 'think' were on Rogers' list. It has been hectic here, but I will try to get all the loose ends tied up soon.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 11:32 AM

I'm one of those, Bill, if you get a chance.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ranger1
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 07:11 PM

One of my dearest friends shares a family camp in a remote location that can only be reached by boat or by a five mile hike culminating in a river crossing to reach the island. On the hike in, there is an ancient hemlock that sprouted on top of a glacial erratic (a boulder dropped during the last ice age) and the roots have grown down the sides of the boulder and into the ground. It is a magical spot, and some of my store of Kat's ashes were left there. Some more were scattered at the end of the island, looking west toward a beautiful mountain view across the lake. I will continue to carry her with me in my travels and leave a part of her in the beautiful, wild places I find.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 09:26 PM

Thank you for that last post, Ranger1! I am glad you were able to do that.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Bill D
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 10:07 PM

Will do Maggie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: MMario
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 08:06 AM

Like Tami I have been carrying some of Kat with me; scattering bits of the ashes in places I think she would have liked, or that I would have liked to show her...

So she is now part and parcel of the Cape Cod Canal, Cape Cod Bay, Edaville USA; King Richard's Faire, and the Berkshires.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 01:56 PM

Any specific place in the Berkshires, MMario? I will probably be there around Christmas or New Year's Day and would like to know I was close to Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 10:27 PM

aww thank you so very my Bill Mario & ranger ... Spaw and I have talked of putting a map together for Morgan so he knows all the place his moma has been..

Somewhere in the fields of heaven
Proud Souls laugh and love together
Some where between passion and losing friends


Bill, Spaw has my # and Facebook info .. any info you need .. you are welcome to have... and I will do my very best to get ash to those that would like to share in kat's travels

[e-mail] for anyone that would like my email.
And Bill you are welcome to post them publicly.. mom always like to share special moments

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 10:29 PM

Sorry I forgot to put my name on the last post

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ranger1
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 12:15 AM

Email sent with photos, Rue.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Art Thieme
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 09:45 PM

Friends From the start, Here and emails and phone calls always. Love to Roger. She stays with me.

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Bill D
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 10:08 PM

Ok Rue... sometime soon. Pics from Getaway...
(and haven't forgotten SRS)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: JedMarum
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 12:14 AM

Such sad, sad news. And I am doubly saddened to have not seen this news until tonight (my fault - I've been away a lot) but while the heavens have gained another star - we have lost a shining light. She was a sweet and considerate woman - and a true friend to so many of us here.

My heartfelt condolences to her loved ones.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Bill D
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 06:02 PM

I have made an album of the little ceremony at the Getaway

Memories of Katlaughing

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 10:11 PM

Thank you, Bill D.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 03:16 AM

I recognise Joe & Amos is named, but who else was there.

sandra

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 06:19 AM

Just wish we could have been there. But our thoughts will never die from across "the pond".

We Luvya Kat.

John Beth and Danny

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 09:27 AM

Thanks for the photos, Bill.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Bill D
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 10:53 AM

Roger Himler (Roger in Baltimore), Janie, Kendall & Jacqui, Tinker, Jeri, Lonesome EJ, MMario, ClairBear, Joe, Amos.....and I took the pictures. A couple of others who took some, like Ranger1 (Tami) could not be right there.

Several of us spent the day taking Kat to various workshops and concerts before the ceremony.... she sure got around! And the process continues....

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 02:03 AM

thanks, Bill

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Janie
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 03:13 PM

Also Ron Davies. Others would have joined us if they had known. It wasn't possible to make a general announcement - discretion was called for. We did our best by word-of-mouth, but there were a number of Mudcatters at the Getaway who did not get word who would have liked to have joined us on the bridge had they known. Plus, herding 'Cats is always challenging!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Ebbie
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 04:37 PM

Kat has been on my mind all day. You know that if Kat were here she'd be busy starting a novel for NaNoWriMo. Incidentally, does/did she leave any writing to be published?

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST,Guest (Kathy)
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 12:42 AM

Hey folks, I did not know Kat, but I look over Mudcat every now and then and it is wonder-full reading.

I did notice, quite a ways back in this thread, that her grandson Morgan's 10th birthday is coming up this week ... I think it said Nov. 14th. Wouldn't it just be tremendous if he got birthday wishes from all his grandma's Mudcat friends? Especially since this is the first birthday he will experience without her.

Just a thought. Yall know more about how to do this than I do.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Ebbie
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 02:16 AM

Great idea! We all know how special he was to her, and by extension, to us.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 03:20 AM

do we start a new thread?

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: maeve
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 05:03 AM

Morgan's Birthday Thread 2013 is downstairs, thanks to good suggestions here and the lovely Megan.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 09:08 AM

Morgan has a mudcat account also - we can look it up if someone doesn't have a note for themselves already. Morgan, if you're reading this, act surprised!

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 14 Nov 13 - 06:22 PM

Thank Bill D for the getaway link! .. and it is Morgan's birthday today =). He also has his school music program this evening, which I thought was very appropriate day for it to fall on. I will be sure to have him log into the Mudcat when we get home and I will try to figure out how to upload a video of it for those that would like to see.

take care all ... I can't tell you all how much Mom would love all that you have done for her family and Morgan.. best wishes to all

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: maeve
Date: 14 Nov 13 - 06:57 PM

Rue, please tell Morgan we remembered his birthday today. His thread is here:
Happy Birthday Morgan

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Nov 13 - 12:42 PM

If Morgan has a place to put his video, like in facebook, then anyone with permission to see his file can view it. Some of the photo sites now allow video, so you might look at Flickr or Photobucket. MyOpera (where your mother has some photos) is going away in 2014 so if you have the logon information for her account you might want to download any photos that you don't already have and close down the account before it just vanishes. (The good thing about the Opera photos going away is that the troll who tormented several of us, but Kat particularly mercilessly, used MyOpera a lot. This is the place where it was difficult to get them to clear their cache. Those old harvested photos in troll accounts will vanish - yay!)

Anyway, once Morgan uploads his video then he can post a link here.

And Happy Happy Birthday, Morgan! You were the light of your grandmother's eye, and all of your Mudcat Aunties are still interested in your activities.

SRS