Creating a Memory Page is a very special way to honor a loved one who has gone to Rainbow Bridge. In keeping with the Older Cats Society monthly theme, Spike asked me to prepare a brief tutorial on this subject. I hope you will find these guidelines, examples and links helpful.

Preparing to make a Memory Page

An online memorial provides an opportunity to share your special memories with family and friends around the world. Making a Memory Page or other type of tribute can also be part of the healing process. Regardless of the circumstances, losing a beloved companion is a devastating experience. Even though one may wish to make a memorial, it may be difficult to begin. This is something that cannot be rushed; given time, the words will come from your heart. Try to spend some time quietly reflecting on the good times you had together. If you have photographs, choose one of your favorites and write a description of it. This may become the foundation of your Memory Page. If photographs are not available, you may rely on your memory to paint a picture with words. The more thought you put into planning your Memory Page, the easier it will be to convert it to a web page.

Basic guidelines

The basic guidelines for creating a Memory Page are the same as those for making any web page. Content is the most important factor, but presentation is a key ingredient. You can establish mood through the use of color and other design elements. Organize your thoughts by making an outline and creating rough sketches of the page layout. If you are experienced at making web pages, you may wish to experiment with new techniques. HTML Goodies offers a variety of helpful tutorials for all levels.

Graphics

Memory pages may be enhanced by using illustrations. Many free graphic web sites are available. Some have special sections dedicated to collections that include angels, rainbow images and appropriate background sets. The terms of use may vary, so always read them and follow instructions. CatStuff Graphics has an excellent FAQ on Good Netiquette.

If you enjoy making your own graphics, you can customize your memory page by making a personalized background and navigational buttons. You can also create a unique frame for a special photograph.

When graphics are inserted in a web page, it is important that the WIDTH and HEIGHT commands are accurate. When graphics are resized, they must be in proportion to the original. If not, the graphic will be distorted. Graphics from free web sites should not be altered in any way without the artist's permission. You will find a wide variety of free graphics at these web sites:

CatStuff Graphics
Diabella's Vintage Cat Graphics
Finger Prints & Paws
Mysty's Loft
Victorian Elegance

Music

If you wish to have a musical background, you will find many appropriate MIDI selections available without cost on the Internet. In addition to MIDI arrangements of popular tunes, original compositions are available. Please take time to read guidelines and follow instructions when adding music to your Memory Page. Free MIDI files are available at these web sites:

Bruce DeBoer's Original Music Compositions
Classical MIDI Archives
Laura's MIDI Heaven
Original Musical Compositions by Geoff

Examples

A Memory Page doesn't have to be complex. In fact, a very memorable tribute may consist of a photograph accompanied by a line or two of descriptive text. An example of an effective use of this format is Smudge's Memorial at PetRescue.Com.

The Gathering Place is a beautifully designed, well-coordinated web site. It features a section on animals called A Circle of Compassion which is dedicated to Duke, "a fine gray cat with the guts of a bank-robber." Duke's Tribute affectionately depicts his character through the use of gentle humor.

ClydeSight 2.0!, an award winning Memorial Web Site, is dedicated to the memory of Clyde Big Paws. His legacy continues as Gert, Eddie and C.H.U. maintain his original work and create new adventures, games and music. They have also created special memorials for some of their friends at Rainbow Bridge.

You will find links to more memory pages and tributes on Memorial Links. Many of these wonderful memorials were created by Older Cats Society members.

Technical Considerations

Unfortunately, all browsers are not created equal. It is always a good idea to check your completed page in a different browser. If possible, also compare it using different screen resolutions. This is particularly important when using a border background and/or tables. This page, for example, was created in Internet Explorer 6.0, using 800x600 screen resolution with High Color. An emulator enabled me to check it at resolutions of 640X480 and 1024X768. Using table width commands in percentages ensures that the tables will be in proportion when viewed at other screen widths and resolutions.

A section of this month's Activity Page will provide links to Memory Pages completed by OCS members.

Please post questions or suggestions in the Older Cats Society Forum or send them by email