9/17 - 18 Uncle

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

This is really hard, but I wanted to let all my friends here know that Uncle went ahead this morning.
It was very peaceful.
He hadn't been eating no matter what I tried, was very weak and the light was leaving him. Even with Cerenia, Ondansetron, Mirtz, baby food, bone broth, freeze-dried chicken/beef liver, bonito flakes he just couldn't do it. I even went to KFC to get a chicken breast.
He seemed hungry but rejected everything except a little dry food, which was a hail mary on my part. I worked closely with the vet in these last few days to keep him comfortable. Three nights ago he got on the bed and laid his head on my cheek. In 17 years that had never happened. He was purring (an inside purr) and I felt that he wanted to be as close as possible and tell me he would miss me but he was tired and ready to go. Tears of sadness and gratefulness streamed from my eyes and I didn't want to break the spell knowing that it would probably be the closest we would ever be again. I did wake him to give a test. I wish I hadn't but I was nervous about is BG since he hadn't eaten anything and it was time for a test.
He was diagnosed one year and a week ago. We never would have made it this long without all of the support, technical and otherwise that you all have given.
I won't be a stranger around here. I have missed checking in to see how everyone was doing but was exhausted and preoccupied.
Tons of love and gratitude to you ALL

Barbara & Uncle

 

[CassAndGordy(GA)]

I am so sorry Barbara. My deep condolences

Fly free

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

I am so sorry Barbara. My deep condolences

Fly free

Thank you. I really appreciate it

 

[Wendy&Neko]

((((Barbara)))) I am so, so sorry it was Uncle's time to go. That moment with his head on your cheek will be one you always remember. I hope he gives you a sign soon that he's made it safely to the Bridge where the rest of our GAs will greet him warmly. It helped me to think of our GAs being whole and healthy again as they wait to be with us once more.

Take care of you too Barbara. You have done so much for Uncle recently and it's been hard on you too.

 

[Amy&TrixieCat]

I'm so very sorry....Uncle will always be in your heart until you meet again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you...

 

[Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey]

{{{Barbara}}}

Many of us have been watching for word and worried that something like this was happening. I am so very sorry.

Thank you for sharing such a special moment with us. It must give you peace to have such a clear sign from him that he was ready. I know how hard this is, but you gave him the most loving gift possible. Take care of yourself and lean on us. We understand.

Fly free, dear Uncle, and land softly.

 

[Kris & Teasel]

I'm so sorry you've lost your special boy.

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

((((Barbara))))

I'm so sorry. You have been so attentive to Uncle's needs. Your description of his head nestled into your cheek brought tears to my eyes. I always believe that our kitties will tell us when it is their time. We need to be wise enough to listen. You are a wise women even though that wisdom was painful.

"Cats never completely leave you. They side step time, shrug off death - come at the call of memory their beauty undiminished, their touch as gentle, their love perpetual."

Fly free, Uncle and land softly.

 

[Chris/China (GA)/Garfield]

(((((Barbara)))))

As Tricia said, many of us were worried that we hadn't heard from you and we're all so sorry to hear that it was Uncle's time to go. You know you did the most loving thing and listened when he told you it was time, but it's never any easier

Fly free sweet Uncle and land softly.....there are so many of your old friends at the bridge to welcome you and keep you company until the one you love most comes to be with you forever

The Ridge
© 2004 By Carol Notermann

It’s been such a lovely summer, I’ve been napping in the sun.
This morning, other cats and I enjoyed a long long run.
We chased butterflies together. I climbed high into a tree.
And now I think what woke me up was that small bumble bee.


I’ve yawned and stretched, and still I feel that something has begun.
He’s standing there in robes of white, and telling me to come.
I always run to Him you know, when He comes across the bridge
To see if we’re all having fun and if we’ve checked the ridge.


He gives tummy rubs to all of us and pets and cuddles too
I’m glad to see Him every day, when He comes into view.
Each day He takes a different cat, and chats with them a while
Then off that kitty starts to run. I swear they seem to smile.


But now He’s stopped in front of me. He’s said a name I know.
He said to look out towards the ridge. The sun is setting low.
I start to walk out toward the ridge, and then what’s that I see.
IT’S YOU! IT’S YOU! It’s really you. You’ve come to be with me!


My goodness you are running and I am running too!
You stop to bend, but I can jump and now I am with you.
I feel your kisses on my head, as I did in long off days
You’re holding me and hugging me, and into your eyes I gaze.


And now He’s walking with us, as you carry me once more
We’ve crossed the bridge together. We’re here at Heaven’s door.
And He has held it open, and told us to walk through
That from now on and forever, I can always be with you.

 

[Christie & Maverick]

Barbara, I am truly sorry to hear that you had to say goodbye to Uncle. My heart goes out to you.

 

[Judy and Boomer]

Oh Barbara I am so sorry that it was Uncle's time. What a sweet way he had of telling you it was time and he knew you would listen. Fly free Uncle.

 

[Shoeskitty-GA]

I am so very sorry that it was Uncle's time. I hope that you can remember only happy memories soon. Please take care of yourself.

 

[tiffmaxee]

Barbara, I'm so sorry to read this. I had a feeling this would not end well. It was just to close to home. Max used to put his head on my cheek every night before he moved to the foot of the bed. I'm crying with you.

 

[Marje and Gracie]

(((Barbara))))

I am so sorry for your loss of this sweet boy who means the world to you. He couldn’t have asked for a better mom and it’s so wonderful that he let you know how much he loves you. I hope that let you feel ok with letting him cross. It’s the greatest, but hardest, gift we can give our babies.

Gentle journey, Uncle.

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

((((Barbara)))) I am so, so sorry it was Uncle's time to go. That moment with his head on your cheek will be one you always remember. I hope he gives you a sign soon that he's made it safely to the Bridge where the rest of our GAs will greet him warmly. It helped me to think of our GAs being whole and healthy again as they wait to be with us once more.

Take care of you too Barbara. You have done so much for Uncle recently and it's been hard on you too.

Wendy, thank you so much for all of the help and guidance you've given me this past year.
In this time of great pain I do feel some waves of relief that the struggle is over, for the both of us. And, it does give me some solace to think of Uncle as whole again reunited with his sister, bonded brother and all the other loved ones. If I get a sign that he is with the rest of our GAs I will report back

As far as taking care of myself, I would like to go camping and "forest bathe" as much as possible in the near future. Let the quiet soak in. Get to the San Juan islands and hopefully to Mazama for a few days when I can.

 

[Wendy&Neko]

Going to the islands is a great idea. Our Gulf Islands are very peaceful and restful too. You've been under a lot of stress lately. I found I was utterly exhausted, in spite of finally being able to sleep through the night.

 

[carfurby (GA)]

Barbara, I'm so sorry. Uncle was lucky to have you. I hope you can get some time for yourself soon. Fly free sweet Uncle. Sending prayers.

 

[Chubba (GA)]

I'm so sorry that it was Uncle's time, but glad you got to share that special moment. That memory will always be with you and close to your heart.

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

I'm so very sorry....Uncle will always be in your heart until you meet again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you...

Thanks for checking in Amy, your thoughts and prayers are really appreciated. I know Uncle will always live in my heart as Trixie lives in yours.

 

[rhiannon and shadow (GA)]

((((Barbara))))
I'm so sorry. Prayers for your grieving heart.
I'm glad he gave you a beautiful moment and such a special one at that.
Just this morning I was missing that very thing, as my girl used to do that to me. We would sleep, her laying on me and cheek to cheek.
It was such a total immersion of love.
I hope you will feel it many times in your heart.
Fly Free Sweet Uncle.

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

{{{Barbara}}}

Many of us have been watching for word and worried that something like this was happening. I am so very sorry.

Thank you for sharing such a special moment with us. It must give you peace to have such a clear sign from him that he was ready. I know how hard this is, but you gave him the most loving gift possible. Take care of yourself and lean on us. We understand.

Fly free, dear Uncle, and land softly.

Oh Tricia, I'm sorry that I didn't post before today. It was my intention to but every night I was so exhausted and sad, I kept putting it off. I knew the news would be upsetting. There is so much love and empathy here.
I was holding out hope that there was just "one more thing I could try" but it wasn't to be. Everything was so stressful. Uncle stopped eating and started drinking copious amounts of water 2 days ago. He also started losing control of his bladder. He was either hiding in the back of the closet or in laying in the backyard near a water bowl I put out for him. He did come out for a couple of visits on the bed each night except for last night.
I'm glad his transition was peaceful this morning and that I didn't wait any longer. It seemed I traded the awful anxiety of making sure I was doing everything I could to heal him, to the upsetting fear that I was letting him suffer.
I will definitely be leaning on you in the days to come.
Thank you for all the love and expert advice you've shared with us this past year

 

[Bronx's dad (GA)]

I am so sorry for your loss Barbara

 

[Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)]

Dear (((Barbara))),
We are saddened to hear that your dear, brave boy has Gone Ahead. His farewell gift to you was so beautiful, so loving. A moment in time that you will treasure forever.

Fly free, sweet Uncle. All your friends at the Bridge will keep you company until that wonderful day of reunion.
You are much loved.

In deepest sympathy,

Ella & Edward, Rusty, and Stu (GA)

 

[Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey]

Oh Tricia, I'm sorry that I didn't post before today. It was my intention to but every night I was so exhausted and sad, I kept putting it off. I knew the news would be upsetting. There is so much love and empathy here.
I was holding out hope that there was just "one more thing I could try" but it wasn't to be. Everything was so stressful. Uncle stopped eating and started drinking copious amounts of water 2 days ago. He also started losing control of his bladder. He was either hiding in the back of the closet or in laying in the backyard near a water bowl I put out for him. He did come out for a couple of visits on the bed each night except for last night.
I'm glad his transition was peaceful this morning and that I didn't wait any longer. It seemed I traded the awful anxiety of making sure I was doing everything I could to heal him, to the upsetting fear that I was letting him suffer.
I will definitely be leaning on you in the days to come.
Thank you for all the love and expert advice you've shared with us this past year

Barbara, no apologies needed. You were going through so much, and the last thing on your mind should have been keep us up to date. I just hope you know how much understanding and support you have here. We do care so much, because we've all been there, and no one should have to go through it alone.

Get to the San Juan islands

My in-laws were there for the eclipse, and from their pictures, it's a beautiful, peaceful place. Perfect for soothing one's soul and one's aching heart.

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

I'm so sorry you've lost your special boy.

I'm so sorry you've lost your special boy.

Thank you Kris. I'm glad you and Teasel have become part of my LL family. Nice to see Teasel is having a good day

 

[Squalliesmom]

(((Barbara))), I'm so very, very sorry to hear that Uncle has gone ahead. What a beautiful way he let you know it was time; he knew how deeply you loved him, and trusted you to make that hardest decision. Always remember the feel of the warmth of his sweet head on your cheek, the gentle rumble of that inside purr, and the love you shared so completely, and you will never be alone; he will always be there with you, in your heart forever.

Fly free, beloved Uncle, as you begin your journey to your new life at the Bridge. Send your mama-bean a sign that you are once again happy and well, and awaiting the day you will be reunited.

For you, Barbara - ALL CATS GO TO HEAVEN

 

[Red & Rover (GA)]

Barbara. You are a hero and Uncle knew this. Your were his hero. You did everything possible and everything right. I'm sorry for your loss.

Sitting by water is good. It can bring joy during a time when joy is hard to find. Take care of yourself the next while.

 

[Taffysmama]

Oh, Barbara. So sorry that Uncle had to leave. You loved and cared for him beautifully up to the end. You can both rest now.

I'm all blurred up with tears...Taffy, Baby Kitty, & I send all of our late night love & hugs & purrs & head bumps.

 

[Dyana]

I'm so sorry (((Barbara))) Crying here, with the news. I feel for you and know the sadness.
There was great love between you and him. He will be waiting for you at The Bridge.
Fly Free Sweet Uncle

 

[Alicia & Maggie (GA)]

Barbara, I so very sorry for your loss. You and Uncle were very lucky to have each other.

 

[Doodles & Karen]

((Barbara)) I'm so very sorry and my heart hurts for you during this difficult time. You gave dear Uncle such a beautiful life and he'll always be with you. I said a prayer and asked Doodles to comfort Uncle. Sienne posted this for me and although it took a while, it did help The Loving Ones . Run and play now Uncle...do all the things you love to do sweet boy.

 

[elizabeth and gus]

I am so sorry for your loss. RIP sweet Uncle.

 

[Beenie (GA)]

I'm so sorry for your loss

 

[Carol & Murphy (GA)]

Barbara - I just saw your posting - I am so sad - I loved Uncle ever since you first started posting and loved how you named him.
My heart is so sad for you but the cheek to cheek goodbye warmed my heart and is a tearjerker tale for sure

Goodbye, dear little gingerman Uncle --RIP little darling
peace to you, Barbara

 

[HWright]

(((Barbara))),
Tears, hugs and love for you, your family and Uncle in this, his journey in the great beyond.

He will always be with you and you with him. I know that Sootie and Bo are nearby and among his many LL&L friends to welcome and embrace him in .

With our love and vines that your days bring gentleness of loving memories and nights be filled with sweet dreams,

Sina and Sootie's Tribe

 

[Olive & Paula]

So sorry.

 

[Madrona and Leda (GA)]

I'm so sorry Barbara. Thank you so much for sharing your precious Uncle with all of us.

Leda and I can confirm that the islands are soul soothing.

 

[Govies mom (Karen)]

I wish u comfort in dealing with ur loss..and that can be found in knowing ur a great mom who gave him a great life..as taken from Garth Brooks song The Dance
"Our lives are better left to chance, we could've missed the pain, but we'd a had to miss the dance"

 

[MyTitan (GA)]

Barbara , I'm sitting here reading this for the first time with Titan in my arms and crying. We have just started our journey and readng about you and Uncle and the well wishes from your friends here has my heart aching for you. The pain will pass and good memories will be abundant. Here's to Uncle waiting for you at the bridge . Peace be yours, Ed

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

I cannot truly express how much all of the outpouring of support and emotion means to me right now. I had intended to write back to every single one of you today but I guess I am not quite ready, because I start crying immediately as I read all of the beautiful posts.
I also know the feelings of shared grief when one of our beautiful kitties can no longer stay here with us.
In the year that I have been on the board my heart broke along with Wendy for Neko & Theo, Karen for Doodles, Sina for Sootie, Bron for Sheba & Jess, Donna for Flame, Amy for Trixie and Les for Gussie. I'm know I'm forgetting someone in my blurry state of mind.

I buried Uncle this morning under the bird bath. When he had all four legs he used to jump up there and hang out if it was dry. Here is a picture of him when he was a young guy

 

[Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey]

How lovely that he will always be in one of his favorite places, and you can picture him there, on the birdbath, whole again.

Don't worry about answering everyone, Barbara. We don't mind a group response at all - remember, we're family!

 

[Barbara & Uncle (GA)]

How lovely that he will always be in one of his favorite places, and you can picture him there, on the birdbath, whole again.

Don't worry about answering everyone, Barbara. We don't mind a group response at all - remember, we're family!

Thanks Tricia. It is something I feel compelled to do. Honestly, I also started to feel really bad physically last night with sore throat, runny nose, aches & pains, fever which has continued into today. I must have been holding it together until Uncle no longer needed me to tend to him. I'm going to take more aspirin and hit the sack. I'm glad you are watching over Squallie tonight and I'm glad we're friends.

 

[Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey]

Thanks Tricia. It is something I feel compelled to do. Honestly, I also started to feel really bad physically last night with sore throat, runny nose, aches & pains, fever which has continued into today. I must have been holding it together until Uncle no longer needed me to tend to him. I'm going to take more aspirin and hit the sack. I'm glad you are watching over Squallie tonight and I'm glad we're friends.

Just take your time, then, Barbara. You have to be good to you. I don't doubt that adrenaline was keeping the bug at bay, and now your resistance is down.

Sending you lots of healing vines - for the heart and the body.

I'm glad we're friends, too.

 

[Gussie's mom (GA)]

((((Barbara)))))))
No words suffice, grief is too vast for them...sending gentle hugs of comfort to you..
And healing vines please take care of your physical self, that is a nasty bug making the rounds and as Tricia said, your resistance is down...
I am so very very sorry it was Uncles time to join the others at the bridge...I know he was welcomed with merriment and joyous reunions...
I am sure there was a special birdbath there with his name on it.....
Fly free sweet Uncle....
I wish I could help the hurt in your heart....
Les

 

[Gussie's mom (GA)]

(((((((((Barbara)))))))
If I find that magic wand that makes the heart hurt go away I will wave it over you...I'm still searching for it...

 

[Carol & Murphy (GA)]

Really glad you posted, Barbara
Love Uncle's resting place - take good care -

 

[Doodles & Karen]

It's a wonderful photo and yes, please take care of yourself.

 

[suki & crystal (GA)]

My deepest condolences Barbara on the loss of your gorgeous ginger boy. Fly free. dearest Uncle and land softly at the Bridge. What a beautiful resting place, many prayers for peace and comfort in the coming weeks.

 

[Girlie's mom]

Oh Barbara....tears are just streaming down as I write this. I am so, so sorry for your loss. How beautiful of Uncle to tell you so clearly that he loved you but that it was time to let him go when he lay his head on your cheek. What a gift he gave you there! It takes great courage to let go of the ones we love so much - great courage. And it is so wonderful that you've laid him to rest in such a special place.

A wise decision, Barbara, to "forest bathe" and take some time for yourself. I've gotten a real sense of you from your posts, and you are clearly a very, very special person and a wonderful mom - still! - to dearest Uncle.

Fly free, Uncle... you were so very lucky to have such a special mom.

 

[Susan&Felix(GA)]

I'm newer on the board and didn't meet you and Uncle, but I saw your posts and really had him on my mind this weekend. I just realized he was a three-legger--the cat I grew up with was a three-legged buff colored boy. So sorry for your loss of precious Uncle, and I hope you're feeling better.