Happy Summer! We’re pleased to introduce the Vaughn Family! Born and raised in Jonesville, TX- Victoria Vaughn relocated to Oxford to attend the University of Mississippi. She toured several college campuses across the country, but when she stepped onto the Ole Miss campus she felt like she was home. Having grown up in a historical house and small town, she was captivated by the history and tradition Ole Miss had to offer. Victoria graduated with her second Bachelor’s degree in art this year, and believes moving to Oxford was one of her best decisions yet.
Victoria comes from a long line of animal lovers. She grew up with Great Danes and Rottweilers as her siblings. Her sister Bella, is a precious Doberman who visits Oxford regularly and is a well know friend of Homeward Bound. Her Jonesville home has welcomed many furry and feathered friends through the years; from cockatiels, chickens, peacocks and horses, to many, many neighborhood cats. After relocating to Oxford, she longed for that familiar feeling of unconditional love and companionship. After a month of frequent visits to the shelter she found her forever friend, Minna. Minna was a tiny black fur-ball at the time, but made a huge impression on Victoria. Because of the stigma associated with black cats, Victoria was told that she was having trouble getting adopted- and that’s when she knew she had found her furr-ever companion. As she picked Minna up, she started to purr like a diesel motor, and she thought what a loud noise coming from such a small baby. It must be love! Victoria couldn’t wait to bring her new baby home and give her a better life, but as all pet parents eventually learn, it was Minna who change life in so many unimaginable ways!
Minna’s name was inspired by a W.B Yeats poem, The Cat and the Moon– about a black cat named Minnaloushe. Victoria shortened the name to “Minna” to sound a bit more feminine. Much like the cat from the poem, Minna loves to jump from place to place; often, window to window, purring softly and curiously gazing at all the butterflies and bees. When mom is getting ready for work, Minna loves to hide underneath her clothes. She is full of affection!. At night she cuddles behind Victoria’s knees as she sleeps each night. Minna also loves to eat! Her passion for food has earned her the nickname “Belly Swag” as her belly swings from side to side when she walks. Minna has a unique obsession with ice. To lure her from hiding, simply shake some ice and she comes running! She is also well known as a champion laser tag player. Can you say “Kitty Olympics”!? We’re just sayin’….
We are pleased to have the Vaughn’s in the Homeward Bound Family, and proud to spotlight them off as June’s Pet Family of the Month!