When Jason asked Ashlee's parents for her hand in marriage, they suggested that he involve her 21-year-old cat, Bella, in his proposal. Jason loved the idea because everyone knew how important Bella was to his future wife. Ashlee was six years old when Bella came into her life, and the two of them had
remained inseparable.
"When I moved out of my parents’ home, of course Bella went with me," said Ashlee. “When I met Jason I was surprised to learn that he wasn’t fond of cats. I mean who doesn’t love cats? And he was just as surprised to learn of Bella’s strong ‘presents’ in my life. Thankfully, when they met it was ‘love at first sight’ for both of them. What a relief as I had learned those that don’t like animals are not as loving as those who love them. And all my
friend knew, Bella and I were a team and we could never date someone who did not love cats!”
Three years later, at Halloween, Jason entered a pet store and purr-chased a pretty-pink-pet costume for Bella.
Just before Christmas, under the pretense of preparing dinner, Jason carried Bella into the kitchen to dress her for the special occasion. He carefully tied the engagement ring to a ribbon
around her neck.
"I was working on the computer so when Jason walked into the room carrying Bella dressed in a fancy dress, I was confused," said Ashlee. “As a child I never dressed Bella up and I never expected Jason to dress her up as his proposal prop! I loved it!"
Bella began protesting her new outfit, so before she jumped out of his arms Jason bent down on one knee and he and Bella popped the question. Ashlee said,
"Yes!"
Sadly, the couple were unable to fulfill Ashlee’s dream of including Bella in their wedding, because their kitty passed a few weeks before the celebration, but their memories of her role in their engagement will always be with them.
We wish the couple a life time of health, happiness, love and future healthy children, furry, or otherwise. Their compassion for animals and their sense of humor will serve them well in transforming their house
into a home.