I can really relate and do hope that 2012 continues for you in the wonderful way it has started with Miss Kitty in your life.
We took in a little very thin dirty stray in the summer (I did not want or need another cat as I already have two, one of which is stone deaf, almost 17 and has dementia!) But Bimble is now about for times heavier, a real clown and a delight to have around and helps me to cope with the sad decline of my old boy and I know that when the time comes to say goodbye to my old guy Bimble will be around now to mop up my tears. As you said God does not give us what we want he gives us what we need. Good luck with quilting and kitty!