Rock at the show tonight Wil. Make Sketch proud!

Posted by: =^) at April 27, 2005 09:22 AM

I hope your show goes well, and I'm sorry that I'm on the east coast and won't be able to see it. I know how said life becomes when you lose a cat. Thankfully, the pain subsides as time goes on. Best of luck tonight!

Posted by: OddieTaco at April 27, 2005 09:24 AM

"When President Kennedy died, we stopped, we mourned, we moved on" from the movie Testament, 1983.

You're right. Life has to move on. We can't stay stuck in a moment that you can't get out of, as U2 writes.

Words cannot describe how profoundly sorry I am about the loss of your second cat. I am right there with you, brother. I know the pain of losing a cat. I lost mine after 20 entire years of constant companionship.

Life will get better. You will get to the end of this tunnel. And the sun will shine again.

Peace.

Posted by: justintime181 at April 27, 2005 09:30 AM

I know how hard it is to go on stage at times like this. Remember that there are tons of people here supporting you. Take care.

Posted by: Norqy at April 27, 2005 09:46 AM

Break a leg tonight, Wil. If I can get the word out to my L.A. area friends in time to get any of them to the show, I will. I'll be there in spirit. And congrats on finishing in the money in your tourneys. :-)

Posted by: Dave Westbay at April 27, 2005 09:51 AM

If I were anywhere near LA, I'd go and clap and hoot like a madwoman. Being in NY instead, I'm gonna sit at home with my cat, Molly, and appreciate how good it feels to be reminded of how wonderful she is. Enjoy it all, Wil. Even the crying.

Posted by: Kristen at April 27, 2005 09:52 AM

Hey Wil,

I think you're really brave to go out onstage and give of yourself when there is such a big part of you grieving. Instinctively, we want to stay in a cocoon when sadness and loss overwhelm us, but you're venturing out, and I know the audience is going to appreciate that from you.

And as far as people being cruel or heartless, tell us who they are, we'll beat them up for you (what is a posse for, anyway?). Hang in there.

Posted by: allie at April 27, 2005 09:53 AM

Have fun tonight! I wish I could be there, but the commute from Austin would take a little too long. :) I can't wait to get the audiobook when it comes out. In regards to the @#$%$@s who were mean about Sketch, I agree with Allie. Saddle up, posse, we've got some butts to kick!

Posted by: Random Amy at April 27, 2005 09:57 AM

Good Luck tonight. Wish I could go, but I'm in NJ. Sorry about Sketch. I know how you feel. I lost two of my horses within a week. It will get better - trust me. Just try remember all the good times. I'm going to sign up for the posse Allie and Amy. Screw those heartless pr---s who don't understand what it's like to loose a friend like that! Don't let them get to you. Just read all the postive and supportive emails and posts and know that a lot of us out here care about you and your entire family. :)

Posted by: zipposwaywardsun at April 27, 2005 10:11 AM

Wil, I hope your grief is very brief. Pets are like members of our family. They love us unconditionally which is more than most humans. I think the reason you get all of these animals is because God knows that you are a very good person and would go far and above to look out for their well-being. To those that make rude comments, feel bad for them. To not love an animal must be rough. They have deeper issues that we will never understand. Good luck on the show tonight and again to you, your wife and sons my sympathies.

Posted by: kilnpublications at April 27, 2005 10:18 AM

Loosing one is hard enough, but two in a row is really rough. *big hug*

It might be too soon to think about this, but when you are ready for different cats (not replacement cats, because no one can replace your little guys), kittens are bet in pairs. They play with eachother and therefore there is less destruction. Adults are best one at a time, the stress of an unfamiliar cat along with a new location is pretty high on an adult cat, especially if they were a rescued cat.

Posted by: Toriko at April 27, 2005 10:19 AM

Good God, how much can one person stand? Wil, Anne, boys, so so so sorry. How on earth are you coping? Gawd, you all have some constitutions. Aimee

Posted by: rush at April 27, 2005 10:21 AM

I'll be plugging it all day on the Egg. I hit LA in a few days. Is Hollywood ready for me? We'll catch an ACME show when I get in to town.

Rawk.

--AJ @ Egg Radio

Posted by: AJ at April 27, 2005 10:22 AM

from Paris, France.
longtime reader this is the first time i comment. i feel very sorry for your loss.
i wish i lived in LA for the show. i'm trying to get copies of your books through amazon.com. my best wishes. good luck!

ps: i'm sure this is the most cliched thing you've heard, but "Stand by me" was the reason why i studied films in college. and shhh, don't tell my husband but you're the reason i named my son Wil. Gordon just didn't fit.

Posted by: irene at April 27, 2005 10:49 AM

Wish I could be there tonight! If you ever make it up to the bay area again, maybe you could put on a similar show up here somewhere?

As far as the meanies go, I think the Posse needs to take care of them! They just have no clue, do they? Idiots.

Break a leg tonight, and take care.

Tim in Nor-cal

Posted by: TimCalif at April 27, 2005 10:59 AM

Gosh Wil (and family), awfully sorry to read about the loss of two of your hairier family members, it's never easy but eventually you'll be able to think of them with a smile on your face rather than tears. Till then know that all your fans (posse as everyone puts it) are right there with you feeling your pain in our own way.

Hugs and best wishes to you and your family....

Ps What I wouldn't give to see one of your performances, one day I may just get to the US, till then I will have to make do with your site. Have a good one.

Posted by: Brodye at April 27, 2005 10:59 AM

Hey baby,

I have been swamped with work and travel and so didn't notice your msg about Sketch until today. Sorry to know that it happened to you -- and I hope you know that he'll be with you always, and will help you when you least expect it.

It must have been very tough for Anne, so hold her a lot and remind her that she did good by the little cat boy.

Keep lookin' up Wil, Anne, Nolan and Ryan! He's up there now too.

Posted by: spacewriter at April 27, 2005 11:06 AM

good luck. and best wishes to you and yours. ::::hugs on the cat:::

i know there are a lot of LJ people also sending best wishes in the comments section there. you've got a whole bunch of people hoping the best for you.

we're some of them!

Posted by: wedschilde at April 27, 2005 11:07 AM

Hey Wil,
I'm glad you told those so and sos where to go. If you can't share your love with other beings than go fly a kite! You have no heart and you shouldn't have kids either in my opinion. If you only love yourself then you're not sharing a gift which is as precious as life itself! Selfish, callious people are in the world and there's not much we can do about it but ignore their ignorance and sad little attitudes.
I'm so sorry once again for your loss and I totally know how you feel. I can draw on my experiences when I act. I can cry at the drop of a hat all I have to do is think about those pets I've lost over the years and how much I miss them. The pain is so much to bear at times. I am there for you.
OXOXOX
Rosemary

Posted by: 1cutebird at April 27, 2005 11:20 AM

I'm so sorry about Sketch. Some particularly vicious cosmic law seems to decree that if you lose one cat, you'll lose a second - I've seen it any number of times, most recently in our own family. You have every right to grieve, and I hope that your work will give you an outlet.

And a big PS for the it's-only-a-cat brigade: bollocks!

Posted by: phoebesmum at April 27, 2005 11:20 AM

My sincere condolences for your loss. It's a brave thing to have a pet...you know that you're going to outlive your pet, which means that you are letting yourself in for a truckload of grief in the future. In return, you get all the years of affection and happy memories from the time you get your pet up until the time it goes away, but no matter what you might tell yourself, you can never be ready to have a great big gaping hole ripped in yourself like that.

My best wishes for your recovery, and for the successful performance of your show. Break a leg!

Posted by: Robotech_Master at April 27, 2005 11:22 AM

WW,

Add me to the list of long-time cat owners who feel your pain and dread the day when it becomes ours. After reading the news, I went home and spent an extra minute greeting my two cats...they were, as always at that time of day, watching their favorite video (the fish tank...it fascinates 'em for hours).

Aloha

Posted by: Kukailimoku at April 27, 2005 11:46 AM

Although this is one of those times where I feel cursed to be on the east coast - where events such as this never seem to happen - I wish you the best of luck with your show tonight!

Posted by: Lane at April 27, 2005 12:01 PM

Hey Wil,

It's so hard to know what to say, especially after it's all been said already. At times like these (which thankfully haven't happened to me very often) I always try to remember that moving forward doesn't mean forgetting or leaving behind. I try to accept that there will always be a little piece of me missing and start my life again from there.

Best wishes to you and your family.

Posted by: CarolP at April 27, 2005 12:05 PM

Wil,
my heart is with you, your family and Sketch. The good thing is that the kitties are keeping each other company and watching out for you. Good luck channeling all the mojo from them and us tonight!

I'll be ordering the audiobook as soon as it's available. My husband's just grateful that I hesitated at spending a few hundred dollars to fly cross-country just to go see you do the taping. I told him it's that much more money for more of your books/audiobooks/etc. He agreed a little too quickly, so I guess he knew I was more than half-serious about going.

Posted by: sharon at April 27, 2005 12:09 PM

Sometimes, there's nothing better than to let it all out. It does get better, but for now (as if you needed anyone's permission) be as sad as you need.

You're going to rock tonight, Wil. You are Der Commisar, and you're in town, baby! You are SO in town...

Posted by: Thomas at April 27, 2005 12:18 PM

This is the true test - the ability to keep going on being an artist even when "art" is the farthest thing from your mind. If I lived in LA I would come support you and bring you cookies, but since I don't, I'll just send you lots of mojo!

On a completely different but related note, who DARES contradict the well-wishes of the Wheaton Posse? We'll rend them in the gobberwarts with our blurglecruncheons, see if we don't!

Posted by: Code Pirate at April 27, 2005 12:23 PM

You have my condolences. I'm still not over losing my baby...over a year ago. It's hard. I know. Keep busy, but leave time to just be and to remember. They never really go away, anyway.

Posted by: TexasShiva at April 27, 2005 12:27 PM

I just read what happened to Sketch and I'm sorry for your loss.

Posted by: Lezli at April 27, 2005 12:33 PM

This is one of those times I'd been brave enough to move out to LA on my own. What a thrill it would be to see you performing your book on stage!

Come around to Wizard World in Chicago sometime so we can see you out here! Don't be stingy with your personal appearances - share them with the rest of the country!

Posted by: ShelaghC at April 27, 2005 12:35 PM

Wil,

I am so sorry about Sketch. I know how much he meant to you, as I do read your syndicated feed over at Live Journal. (BTW, The comments need to be disabled on that. I am sick and bloody tired of the "Wil doesn't read this!" post from some schmuck).
I am sure in time, you'll find another kitty to love just as much as you loved Sketch. And I think he knew that you loved him too, so no worries.

Hell, I still have my kitty's blanket from when we took him to the vet to be put down (He had suffered a major stroke), and haven't used it since, even though I have two fuzzy, nut-less wonders.

I'll give them extra cuddles from you.

~Kaylin

Posted by: Kaylin at April 27, 2005 12:38 PM

Dear Wil, I have to say that I enjoy your writing very much. You describe things is a very real way and I can feel it. I am sorry about The Bear and Sketch. I've had lost pets in the past and can understand your grief. The Bear and Sketch are with you in your heart and will want you to kick butt at ACME. You can do it! and you will be fabulous at it! :)

Posted by: Elizabeth at April 27, 2005 12:40 PM

we miss our friends so much when they leave us. We miss our animal friends in a special way. They wern't people but then again, maybe that's why we love them so much--they've never let us down, we have no conflicted feelings, no grudges, etc. All we had was unconditional love. We're thinking of you.

Posted by: battybeyond at April 27, 2005 12:52 PM

Indeed it must go on, as must life. Yours is better for having loved and been loved by a couple o' hairy little guys. At some point the intense pain becomes more reflection and melancholy...just takes a while. You inspired me not long ago to pay tribute to a couple of my hairy friends. You can find it on my blog in the entry titled "Not so much a rant...", should you have a spare second (yeah,yeah...all your free time, right?)

Posted by: TheSingah at April 27, 2005 12:54 PM

Hey Wil, I didn't have a chance to comment on your last entry about Sketch, but I wanted you to know that I'm real sorry to hear the news. Having three kitties myself, I just don't know what I'd do if I lost any of them let alone 2 within such a short period of time. Best wishes on making it through this difficult time.

Posted by: squeekybuddha at April 27, 2005 01:02 PM

I agree with everyone above, Wil. Don't let the heartless p**cks get to you. Surround yourself with our positive feelings and thoughts for you and your family. Live your life, mourn as much as you need to, and know that you have lots of folks who care about you reading your blog and sending positive mojo your way. :-)

P.S. what's your pokerstars name?

Posted by: VineyardDawg at April 27, 2005 01:07 PM

So sorry about, well, all the loss you've been experiencing in your family lately. You're right, the show, and life, must go on. (Wish we could be there, but Seattle and LA are just too far apart for a weeknight.)

I'll add another "fuck you" to the stack for anyone who would take such a time to make some kind of attack. That's the last thing you need now.

I hope that this does not sound too crass, but in loss there is a huge well of natural emotion, and you *are* recording tonight. That's the great trick of life, if you ask me, learning to take it all and hold it in a way that serves us. The pain, fresh in your heart, can, and probably will whether you try or not, lend a profound depth to your performance, and that is okay.

Lemons and lemonade, and all that.

Sincere sweet wishes to all of you, most especially Anne on this one.

Posted by: naiah christine earhart at April 27, 2005 01:14 PM

My heartfelt condolences on the loss of now your second cat. We reciently lost one of our own household's feline buddies, a little tiger named Two-tone [for it's unique two-toned meew, not its coloring...], which I had come to feel was my own. It would come to my door each morning at 3 am when he heard me awaken, and I would quietly let him in to sit for awhile on my lap, then at my feet while I checked my e-mail, and your blog site. So, there is a really close connection between your own loss and mine, and I shed a few tears just now for both our losses.

Know this, Wil: not only "all dogs go to heaven," so do our cats. I hope both of our lost feline friends are romping right now in those fields of catnip Up There!

Good luck on your show tonight. I do live in the LA area, in Chino, but will be unable to attend due to lack of funds, but my spirit will be there the audience, cheering you on.

Sincerely,
the California "fan" who liked Wesley!

Posted by: scifieditor at April 27, 2005 01:28 PM

Count me in on the ass kicking posse! Who the hell do people think they are? You don't have to justify your feelings for another living being to ANYONE. You grieve as long as you need to.. screw them. Take good care of you & the family. Hugs to all of you.

Kate

Posted by: kate_13 at April 27, 2005 01:51 PM

I'm sorry about Sketch. I didn't get to say goodbye to the last little guy I lost, either, and it does suck.

I'm also sorry for hating on Wesley, it was really just jealousy anyway.

Posted by: Felix at April 27, 2005 02:34 PM

Shane's videoblog thing is hilarious. Just what you need, I expect.

The show, indeed, must go on. Go out there and knock'em dead. Be sure to ask the audience who reads the web site; do it after the performance, because the applause will deafen you.

As usual, it's not possible for me to come to the performance, being from Illinois. One day, I'll attend one.

Break a leg!

Posted by: Craig Steffen at April 27, 2005 02:50 PM

First, I'm sorry for your loss of Sketch. :(

Second, you really need to do an East Cost book reading tour. I'd come to one of your readings!

Posted by: brian at April 27, 2005 02:52 PM

A Vallhalla-esque toast to Sketch! Much quaffing of ale to Sketch! I picture him riding off of the back of a Valkyrie's steed, calmly washing his face while Brunhilde carries him up to the Nap Spot in the Sky.

Our hearts go out to you and yours, Wil. All kidding aside, our cats will give us back-door entry to cat heaven when we're turned away from any other places. If we're good, we'll get to be Belly-Rub Specialists for eternity.

Posted by: BonzoGal at April 27, 2005 03:06 PM

Thanks, everyone. Especially Shane.

brian: I begged, pleaded, and did just about everything I could to convince the people at O'Reilly that a book tour would be a good idea, especially to the North East, and places like Chicago and Kansas City.

Unfortunately, as part of the Not Supporting Just A Geek At All And Relying On Wil To Do All The Work package, my requests (like my warnings about over-marketing to Star Trek fans) fell on deaf ears.

When I self-publish my future books, I'll be able to hit a couple of the cities I'd hoped to visit with Just A Geek.

Posted by: Wil at April 27, 2005 03:13 PM

Wil,

I know nothing in the world can erase your pain and I feel your loss at the deepest level, as I nearly lost my own fuzzy monster last month. I just cried and cried watching her get sicker and sicker. The thought of knowing she wouldn't survive was unbearable, I felt like I was dying too. Hang in there kiddo. Your two cat angels are still with you, merely in another dimension of life.

(stepping onto the soap box)

As for the assholes who have no compassion for your loss, I pitty them. They will never know what it is to love another species. Chances are they don't love themselves or any other humans, and it's safe to assume no animals love them either. So they can go fuck themselves... RAH RAH!

It's hard for me to understand why some people dislike and disrespect animals to their core. I'm not one of those "animal rights" nuts, just an ordinary citizen who does think of the welfare and happiness of non-humans, sometimes before my own welfare and happiness. I love my non-human friends.

Sometimes HUMANS CAN JUST SUCK! Animals were here on earth long before us. Just because they don't speak human, doesn't mean they don't speak. We just need to take the time to listen.

(stepping down off the soap box)

Happy thoughts Wil... my sodo mojo is with you.

Kisses & Hugs,
:) Kel

Posted by: kelsquatch at April 27, 2005 03:43 PM

Aww, I'm so sorry about your kitty. When my mom's 16 year old cat died recently, we just cried and cried.

I know it sounds cheesy, but I had photo magnets made with her picture, from one of those online photo sites. It's nice to have a cute picture of her looking back at me whenever I get up to have a diet coke!

I know it sucks not, but it will get better in a few days.

RIP Sketch :-(

Posted by: HurricaneMB at April 27, 2005 03:59 PM

In response to:
To everyone else who thinks it's a good time to be cruel and heartless: a huge go fuck yourself

**outraged gasp!!!
If you need some help kicking someones ass, do not hesitate to ask. I live in TN so it would only take me.......... a few days to drive out there..... ;-)

-Tara
P.S. I'll bring the evil chihuahuas to help too.

Posted by: Kenobismom at April 27, 2005 04:16 PM

I second the request for an East Coast tour. Keep on keepin' on, Wil. Break a leg tonight!

Posted by: LadyGypsy at April 27, 2005 04:29 PM

Wil,
You have my permission to use both rememberance banners whenever and wherever you want. Thanks for emailing me back both times and that you liked them both. They are yours to do whatever you want with. It gets better. It's good that you are grieving.
With love and lot's of hugs,
Morgan and Charlie_The_Cat

Posted by: morgan at April 27, 2005 04:31 PM

Dearest Wil and family, I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you all.

I sure wish I could join you tonight to hear your reading... ever think of coming to Folsom Ca? Would love to see you!

Brightest Blessings
Wilde Z

Posted by: WildeZ at April 27, 2005 04:57 PM

Hey man, big feeling of condolence going out to you. Losing something precious is always a terrible thing, but you should take heart with the fact that all of us that read you blog are sending you our positive vibes. I've been reading since pretty much the start (one of my first memories of the site being the intial saga of spongebob vegas pants) and i've found your optamism and good vibes to be soething that's kept me smiling even through some pretty bad stuff. Stay strong man, and if not, you know we're all here for you.

Peace

Posted by: Steve at April 27, 2005 06:52 PM

It's good that you are keeping busy. I know the pain will ease with time as far as the insensitive people you spoke of, I just have a tendency to pay them no mind. But that's just me. You have a right to feel the way you do and no one has a right to belittle you about it.

Again I'm sorry for your loss. Your family continues to be in my thoughts. Good luck at your show tonight. I really need to get copies of both your books. From listening to you read them, I'm sure I'd like them.

Maybe someday you'll hit the Philly area, or at least there abouts and I'll get to hear you read in person. I was also a Wesley fan. The show wouldn't have been the same without you.

Try and take it easy when you can.

Posted by: itty bitty at April 27, 2005 08:02 PM

Dude, I'm so sorry. I think that anyone who has ever lost a beloved pet knows what you're going through. You've been through a lot lately and the shit just keeps piling up at your door. Just remember that there are folks who care and share your pain. It doesn't help much, but it will help more than you think.

Posted by: geekzapoppin at April 27, 2005 08:23 PM

i can't write anything that many others haven't already written before me, but i am also very sorry to hear about sketch. =( i can't believe i totally forgot about the reading tonight. all night, i've been thinking, "aren't i supposed to be somewhere tonight?" and now i know where. dag nabbit.

Posted by: arifa at April 27, 2005 08:40 PM

Hey Wil,

I'm sorry that there are those who chose to be cruel and heartless in your time of loss. But truly, they are the ones who are alone and always will be.

As for you and I and those who share in your grief and offer words of support. We are the ones who always have each other to fall back on. Always remember that.

Break a leg in all your performances of Dancing Barefoot. I pray that things will begin to take a turn for the better for you and yours.

Ken

Posted by: KenVanBrunt at April 27, 2005 08:42 PM

Wil,
Stay in the moment. You will have a good show. You are a pro.

FG

Posted by: FABIAN at April 27, 2005 09:26 PM

Now bear has company and together they will be fine.
I know it's hard to lose your freinds weather there people or pets but cry your tears and feel all you want for them it is ok.
But know matter wht they are always inside you and waiting around for you at the end
Good luck and take care

Posted by: Nick Notarangelo at April 27, 2005 10:16 PM

Sometimes it's just good to have real life things to think about so you can start to heal.

Posted by: Robspot at April 27, 2005 10:20 PM

Your feelings are real Wil, and your grief is extremely real.

My only suggestion is this... When you cry to the point where your chest hurts, it would be good to find yourself in the arms of a loved one, be it your wife or even an understanding friend.

It may not take the grief away, but for a time it does make it easier to carry.

Please be well my friend...

Posted by: Gizmo at April 27, 2005 10:44 PM

Wil,

When you are ready, I have a few spare cats & kitties around. I live north of you up in the Antelope Valley, so it wouldn't be a long journey. Losing a pet just plain sucks, we lost one last month that was just days away from having kittens. Animal control said that someone in our neighborhood was poisoning the cats. We live in an area of a lot of new construction, so a lot of the once totally feral cats are moving into backyards. Deep breath, one foot in front of the other...day by day.

Posted by: FranR at April 27, 2005 11:04 PM

Two comments on one post is a bit much for me, but I feel I must contribute to the general uproar.

Yes. Self-publish and FOR THE LOVE OF GOD do an East Coast tour! We will make our money into paper airplanes and THROW it at you if we can get you out here! (And while you're at it, please swing by somewhere close to Asheville. We're not as crazy as we pretend to be. *innocent look*

Until then, I know your reading kicked ass (or is that "is kicking"? It's super late here on the E.C.), so bask in it as much as possible for now! Here, have some more mojo. I've got plenty.

Posted by: Code Pirate at April 27, 2005 11:08 PM

Wil, I was terribly, terribly grieved to hear about your kitties. The same thing happened to me last year, and I know *exactly* how it feels to have one of the most loved and special kitties you've ever had leave you. On a very random note, I read recently that you're an INFP. I am too, which is probably why I can identify with you on some levels and have been a reader for some years now. It's sort of funny in a way b/c we are both quite different (Democrat from Cali. and Southern Republican). I may be moving to Pasadena in about a year or so, and that's scary yet exciting- a far cry from the South. Anywho, beyond rambling, I just wanted to say that I'm deeply, deeply sorry about your kitty, and when I first heard that you're kitty had passed, the Queen song "The Show Must Go On" popped in my head strangely enough. But enough from me though, I'll let you be, and your family is in my prayers. :)

Posted by: TheSwingKitten at April 27, 2005 11:52 PM

Hey Wil,
Just driving home from the show (writing this on my Treo 650... I know, bad)... it was really great seeing you again at ACME :-)
I know that I already made this comment to you, but really man, you could do a 3-4 hour show and leave us screaming for more! You are such an amazingly warm, open and engaging (no Trek pun intended) person. That's just a gift that you have. So please don't berate yourself for going over... okay? :-)
We were all so glad that you made it out, with everything going on. I think that this night was really good for you. *hug* Take care, and I hope to see you again soon!

Terry

p.s. I loved your: this next reading, Inferno, is dedicated to my lovely wife... uh, wait a sec... :-)

(and a quick Hi to Natalie, Jim, Chris & Lissa! Nice meeting you guys!)

Posted by: oboeterry at April 28, 2005 12:09 AM

Sorry to hear about your cat. I totally know how it feels. When my dog died, it was the worst feeling I could have. I never thought that it would affect me so deeply, but not seeing him hanging out in the yard or ready to go out and stuff really brings tears to mine eyes. It wasn't that long ago when he passed, but he really was my best friend for 13 years.

Good luck at ACME!

Pets rule!

Posted by: psteas at April 28, 2005 12:26 AM

Hi Wil and family. I am so sorry to hear about your loss of 2 wonderful family pets. Hope you all feel better soon. It is hard to believe that at a time like this there are those out there who are so cruel and heartless. I have decided that there are 10 types of people in the world... those who respect and admire Wil Wheaton for all he has achieved in his first 30 years and those who are so jealous of him they make the hulk look pallid. As far as the latter group is concerned:
0100010001101111011011100010011101110100
011011000110010101110100
011101000110100001100101
0110001001100001011100110111010001100001011100100110010001110011
0110011101110010011010010110111001100100
011110010110111101110101
01100100011011110111011101101110
Live long and prosper!
Kaye

Posted by: vombatus at April 28, 2005 12:41 AM

Hi Wil again a big hug for your loss. I know when I lost my furry boy Onyx several years ago it was very difficult. I thought I would never want an other cat. WRONG! almost 1 and 1/2 months went by and I could not stand not having a cat around so I went to the animal shelter and adopted Miss Sapphaire Marie who is all black execpt for a patch of white on her chest. I know in time you will have another cat(s) adopt you. As for these neanderthals who are giving you grife I say "Saddle up , Saddle up" lets go kick some ass posse'

Posted by: Gypsy at April 28, 2005 02:35 AM

Hopefully the joy of Barefoot helps aleviate some of the pain of your loss. Much good karma to you.

Posted by: Kikerakee at April 28, 2005 06:01 AM

Your dedication both to your craft and your cats is truly inspiring.

If I was still living in CA, I would so be there. As it is, I currently live in Nashville and will instead send my warmest heartfelt good wishes to you, not only for a shiny performance tonight, but to help salve your soul over the loss of your furred family members.

Love, Sara

Posted by: Saraphina at April 28, 2005 07:10 AM

This is my fist post on you website. I have been reading your blog, on and off, now for about one and a half years. I started reading it because I am a Star Trek fan. I then got caught up in your trials and tribulations. But lately, I realized that I really enjoy your ability to become a writer. You really have become very good at capturing the moment, even in this time of sorrow. My cat is 11 years old and so far in good health, but because of your stories, I have spent some more quality time with her. What I am trying to say is thank you for inspiring me to try and become a better writter.

If you ever decide to write some science fiction, let us know on your blog. I am sure we all would love to read it.

Posted by: Bret at April 28, 2005 08:01 AM

The way you bear your grief does credit to both Sketch and Felix, Wil. Mourn them, yes, but, in the end, celebrate their lives, and count yourself privileged that they chose to spend the last parts of their lives with you. (I certainly feel privileged that Star and Maui have chosen to spend their lives with us...and I dread the day that they leave us.)

And, to those who find it "funny" to mock the deaths of innocent kitties, let me echo your three word comment, and add as a suffix "with a rusty chainsaw, a pile driver, ten feet of wrought-iron fence, and no lubricants!" Such people are utterly beneath contempt.

Posted by: Erbo at April 28, 2005 08:50 AM

Don't neglect the Twin Cities on that book tour you're planning. *wink, wink* Save me a front row seat please...

Posted by: MyntCioccolatta at April 28, 2005 08:55 AM

Wil, I'm so sorry about Sketch. Break a leg tonight, knowing that the WWDN fangeeks are all sending good mojo your way.

Posted by: Gigi at April 28, 2005 08:56 AM

Greetings from Skappleton. I am here to cheer you up.

You should start listening to Ska! Ska is like, this really kewl music that is like punk rock, but with horns and IT IS AWESOME! Sometimes, when I'm listening to my favorite Ska band, "Band Geeks Gone Wild," I'm just like "Holy Sh|t! This stuff is the t1ts!" Then I start "skanking" (that's the kind of dance that Ska people do) all around my room. One time I kicked over my deluxe R2-D2 cooler when I was "Skanking" in my room. I don't care, though... because Ska RULEZ and Star Wars DROOLZ!

I also wear checkerz on a lot of my stuff and I AM AWESOME!

Also, it's really funny to add the word SKA into stuff that is funny... like I could call it "The Green Bay SKAckers or, like "AmeriSKAn Idol" like that show on Fox with all of the hotties that sing Barry Manilobe songs. That is so funny to add the word "SKA" to it!

Plus, I look really cool when I am doing the Skank dance. It's like retardo aerobics. I can even do it really fast when the trumpet player is all like "Pick It Up! Pick It Up!" But he's from New York or something and so he says it really fast, like "pickituppickitup!" It's CRAZY!!!

Plus, I'm like a "Rude Boy" because that's what Ska guys call themselves. I'm not sure why, because we all dress really nice in like, suits. Why would someone in a suit be "rude"? Isn't that CRAZY!!! I freakin' LOVE SKA music!!!
-This was an email my fiance sent to me today. It made me laugh so hard, I had to share.

Posted by: Andrea at April 28, 2005 09:45 AM

The show was wonderful. Thank you.

Posted by: Annika at April 28, 2005 11:11 AM

Bring on the audio book - I've got some long drives ahead!

Posted by: Adamant at April 28, 2005 11:27 AM

Hey Wil, you've gone through so much in so little time. Take it one step at a time. I'm quite sure that all the positive mojo will help.

Best wishes

Posted by: Kamau at April 28, 2005 11:50 AM

Man, I'm sorry to hear about Sketch, especially after losing your other kitty. I wouldn't know what to do if I lost Bela, and I'm not sure I could go on with the show. Maybe one of the tragedies, but not comedy. My heart goes out to you.

Posted by: Jhsquint at April 28, 2005 12:14 PM

For the record, you would have written a 2 page rant if you saw someone videotaping WHILE driving...

Just saying, is all

Posted by: buntz at April 28, 2005 12:42 PM

I think it's very brave of you to blog about your grief over the death of your pets. I don't think many men would.

Sam Kinison was brave in the same way. Before him, I don't think I ever heard a man talk about a woman breaking his heart. (Sure, Sam ended his discussion with a primal scream, but still…)

I'm glad you're talking about it, and I admire you for it. I'm not sure I could be as open as you, but I'm sure you've made it easier for a lot of guys. Good job.

Posted by: FNRThomas at April 28, 2005 01:41 PM

Hey Wil. I'm glad you're feeling better. Get out there and kick some butt at the show tonight. Sketch will be proud! *Hugs* From
Laney Ligon

Posted by: Laney at April 28, 2005 03:22 PM

Gee Wil,
I cried on my keyboard as I read your post when The Bear died, and now again with Sketch. As a long time cat owner, and friend of all animals, I understand your pain. Thank you for being able to share with us such an emotional and personal experience.
I've read your blog for almost two years now, and click on it every morning to see if you've posted. You've become such an excellent writer, and I purchased both your books this Christmas and read them in one day :-)
If you ever get up to the Capitol (Ahhnold country), I'd love to get you to sign my books.

Condolences and loads of healing mojo to you and your family.
-Angie

Posted by: Kittylicious at April 28, 2005 04:36 PM

Buntz-

Two pages? Come on. It's no different than talking on a cellphone. In fact, it's better. I have both hands on the wheel most of the time.

Posted by: shane at April 28, 2005 05:36 PM

I didn't say I would complain!

Wil is the type to have a bumper sticker that says:

Is that a car or a phone booth!

or

Hang up and DRIVE!

Posted by: buntz at April 28, 2005 06:18 PM

Not good times. Break a leg tonight - and everyone here is pullin' for you ...

Posted by: inmate76354 at April 28, 2005 08:33 PM

Wil, I am so sorry to hear about Sketch. However, you can feel some comfort in the fact that he passed on at home, in the warm caring arms of someone he loved. Better that than the cold, heartless room of a vet clinic. I am sure he could not have asked for a better family either. Much love.

Tim

Posted by: TimV at April 28, 2005 09:20 PM

Hey, BonzoGal, I love the idea of a Kitty Valhalla... I imagine one of my cats is there, she was definately a trooper.

Wil, it's amazing how much support and love you have here in the comments about your two kitties. I'm sure it pales in comparison to what your kitties meant to you. I'm sure they were both the source of many a tale and much love. (Someone mentioned something about lemons and lemonade... this is my take. Life is a series of stories after all.)

I'll add my "screw you" to those people who use the opportunity to be nasty or think it was "just a cat": they obviously don't know what they're missing!

Good luck with the reading!

Posted by: Khali at April 28, 2005 10:50 PM

will i only know you from the things i read on this web page but i want you to know i have been where you are at i had a cat Dragon that i had for 18 years and when he passed i did what you did. it sucks monkey balls man but my kitty lives on in my heart. if you need a shoulder to vent to ill be there fer ya :)Im not sayin this b.c of who you are i couldnt care less. your a human being and you lost a loved one and i add my FUCK YOU to all those who are insensative enough to say " its JUST a cat!" they will never understand whats its like to really love.

My addy is (just take the no spam part off odviously ) matrixchick21@hotmail.com(nospam)

Posted by: Firewitch at April 29, 2005 12:10 AM

I gave my cat an extra big hug just for you. You know Sketch will be watching. Give him a great show Wil!

Posted by: Wizzer at April 29, 2005 06:14 AM

Wil, I was very sorry to hear about your cat...I think when it happens unexpectedly like that it makes it even harder. Your show totally rocked, and I was glad I could be there for it.

Posted by: Chuck at April 29, 2005 08:03 AM

I'll also add a big **** you to all those trollers (I guess they got tired of posting garbage to the Yahoo! news article discussion threads) who have nothing better to do except be sadistic. A lot of people do care.

May each positive comment you get here help you with your recent losses. I can't imagine losing both my cats in such a short period of time, so I totally sympathize with you and your family. Please let us know how they are doing as well.

Posted by: DPJ2005 at April 29, 2005 08:16 AM

hi Wil, I've been reading here for a little while now & thought I'd drop a note finally. really sorry about your cats... I know the pain (lost 2 cats & a dog very close together a few years back), awful.

on a happier note, the show sounds great. wish I could get to it but can't do, I'm in Canada. I hope it goes well.

Posted by: loz at April 29, 2005 10:01 AM

duhh.. can I please amend that to 'hope it *went well*'? and etc. my brain has just finally caught up with the date. oops.

Posted by: loz at April 29, 2005 11:54 AM

Thank god you have work to do. One of my cats died on a Friday night (I had a standard 9-5 at the time) and I had the entire weekend to be hysterical. Another died mid-week, and I had to be at work the next day. I was a zombie, but normalcy can heal.

And your work is creative and public - you have an opportunity to use some of that passion and grief and focus it outside.

These little beasts are so wonderful - but so delicate. "The candle that burns the brightest burns the briefest".

My thoughts are with you Wil.

Posted by: Minnesota Countertenor at April 29, 2005 06:51 PM

Copying here part of an email sent to Wil:

>

Now some additional thoughts:
DANCING BAREFOOT LIVE made extending my business trip worthwhile. What an amazing story /truth teller you are!

Gilder, safe at home in San Antonio

Posted by: Gilder at April 29, 2005 07:39 PM

Aw. Shoot. The quote disappeared. Here it is again.

Thanks again for putting on a great reading Wed. night (...). You had me laughing hysterically, except for some brief tears toward the end of the second act. (Will have to buy DANCING BAREFOOT to remember exactly WHY I cried; there were so many vivid images.)

Gilder

Posted by: Gilder at April 29, 2005 07:41 PM

PS: By happy coincidence, my Sony studio tour guide the next day was your fellow improv performer Alison. Told her she'd missed a very good show.

Posted by: Gilder at April 29, 2005 07:48 PM

Thanks so much for sharing with us your love for your pets.

As humans, I believe our greatest hope is to be remembered after we're gone. Isn't it wonderful our pets can enrich our lives in the short time we share on this earth AND leave us with magical memories.

Your stories of Bear and Sketch brought tears to my eyes. You have a gift and our world is a better place because of you, Bear and Sketch.

Thank You!

Posted by: Setal at April 29, 2005 08:49 PM

Wil!
I just found this with my stumbleupon for firefox! I have been reading it for about 5 days straight, I had to start at the beginning you know ;). I am soo sorry about the loss of both of your cats, and so close together. I know it is coming for mine, he has a heart condition too and since he was kidnapped and lived in the wild for 8 years ( crazy story) I am doing the same thing (doctor visits as long as i can afford it and he will be ok after), he deserves to live as long as possible in as painless a condition as he can. It is so hard to lose a friend, and to lose two in a month is just so tragic.
You have made me cry 5 times in the last 5 days, and made my laugh countless times and you have all the "mojo" I can send to you guys right now. I can't imagine how hard Nolan and Ryan are taking it, when it so hard for you!
*hugs* to all of you, and I hope your hearts begin to mend quickly!

Posted by: Stefanynina at April 29, 2005 09:32 PM

Hey Wil,

My little guy, Fuzz, is in the hospital right now. The vet doesn't know what's wrong with him, but thinks it might be an obstruction in his GI system. I know exactly how you feel, and am devestated at the thought of losing him. We raised him from a little 2 week old kitten, fed him with a bottle and all.

I hope you feel better, and in honor of Sketch, please send a moment of mojo toward my guy Fuzz, in hopes he gets through this ok.

Posted by: enceph at April 29, 2005 11:59 PM

Wil, I really hope the performance went well and your feeling ok. I guess those famous words ring true sometimes.... "The Show Must Go On"... and I bet it's one hell of a good performance too. Wish I lived closer..
Hugs and take care..
Lesley

Posted by: LesleyInAustralia at April 30, 2005 03:59 AM

Wil,
As I was reading this entry to my wife, she caught our cat Charlie getting ready to piss on her side of the bed. She suggested that we send him to you, but I talked her out of it.

Anyway, I hope the show went well. Your friend Shane is hilarious.

I also think it is great that you're able to discuss your feelings so openly. I think that this is a big contributer to the appeal of your writing.
Lee

Posted by: kc_gamer at April 30, 2005 07:41 AM