Well, of all our wonderful staff and friends, Winston is the most difficult and demanding. Found next to our building underneath AND inside the mechanics of a parked van, our associates first heard his "mew" in 2006. A quick trip to the convenience store and a tin of cat food later, we had in our beautiful store one dirty, tiny, orange kitten. Back hind quarters were smeared with grease from capture and extraction. The owner of the van was located, but did not own a cat. The owner of The Briar Patch was located and now we all own a cat. We can only suppose he was dumped and abandoned, climbing into the van for a cozy hiding space. He was so, so tiny...

Now weighing in at a healthy 18 pounds, Winston lives in the area of The Briar Patch building that is office and recreational space. He is not allowed into the store or packing and shipping areas for concern of clients with allergies.

In his kittihood, Winston would sneak into other parts of the store and wait for a ceiling fan to rustle a fluffy dress of tulle. On this he would pounce, cling to the bodice, and slide all the way down; ripping with tiny kitten needle claws, the dress from bodice to hemline in true horror story fashion. We are now are extremely careful to keep him within his confined kingdom.

However, he still escapes and costs the business many hours in overtime and goodwill of employees who must remain later than usual to hunt him down. Once the shop closes, if Winston makes it to our large retail area, he is forever hidden among wonderful toys, full length flower girl dresses, and smatterings of antique furniture. This is the one time he will not come when called. The shop will close, all will go home, and Winston will set the alarm off at 3:20 a.m.

As we are on a somewhat busy street, Winston was not allowed out for worry of his safety. Still, he would escape (as most cats are faster than most dress shop workers) and be gone for days. Once, Winston was missing for six weeks. Posters were secured all over town: the grocery stores, the post office, the school announced his disappearance on the loud speaker (flyers went home to parents). Late working employees called and called. Cans of uneaten tuna were left in the courtyard. When Winston did return this time, his point was well made and humbly taken. Winston is now allowed to roam. He proved true the saying, "if you love something, set it free....".

We all thank you for visiting the Briar Patch online and Winston thanks you for helping provide him a loving home and dutiful servants.