Gracie is at peace now
Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my heart warmer. I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be. The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together. Much love, Nina TenHouseCats wrote: oh, nina-- i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in more than a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believe that grace is at the bridge as i write this. all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart... i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break time and time again, and still have room to love again. someone said once that the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws digging their permanent, forever place in our hearts. i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME, rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's easier in ways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred way when the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergency vet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding their paw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against my heart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quite been able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go and go home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i've wanted to scream to the vet, no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's not really time?, i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only to return to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my arms when that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone when that's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respect their need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snout resuscitation i have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiser about the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they know how much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them for sharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go when it is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to them about their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how, at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can do all the things the current body can't do any longer... . i DO believe that euthanasia is often the final gift that we can give them in return for all they have given us--the most profound thing i've ever been told is that it's better to send them home one day too soon than 10 minutes too late. sometimes the act of leaving the body behind is soft and quiet and gentle, sometimes it is not--when it is clear that their time
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Nina, You are so blessed to have had Grace in your life. Her passing sounds ideal; gentle, with loved ones near. We should all be so fortunate. HUGSNina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they knowhow much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them forsharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go whenit is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to themabout their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how,at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can doall the things the current body can't do any longer... . i DO believethat euthanasia is often the final gift that we can give them inreturn for all they have given us--the most profound thing i've everbeen told is that it's better to send them home one day too soon than10 minutes too late. sometimes the act of leaving the body behind issoft and quiet
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Oh Nina.. I just had a minute to scroll through and check to see what the update was on Grace. It sounds very peaceful and special, but I can hardly write this, so I can't imagine how you feel right now. All I can say is look forward to the time you can be with her again. It is so hard to let go of their physical presence even when you know she is really still with you. Try to do something nice for yourself today and get some rest. Take care, Tonya --- Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my heart warmer. I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be. The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together. Much love, Nina TenHouseCats wrote: oh, nina-- i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in more than a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believe that grace is at the bridge as i write this. all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart... i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break time and time again, and still have room to love again. someone said once that the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws digging their permanent, forever place in our hearts. i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME, rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's easier in ways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred way when the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergency vet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding their paw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against my heart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quite been able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go and go home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i've wanted to scream to the vet, no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's not really time?, i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only to return to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my arms when that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone when that's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respect their need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snout resuscitation i have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiser about the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they know how much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them for sharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go when it is time. i ask them to tell
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Nina, I have been reading about your struggles with Gracie and so sorry that you lost this precious baby. She was so lucky to have you She really, truly was. She isn't far away from you. I believe this with all my heart. She will always be with you. My prayers are with you. God Bless. FayeNina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they knowhow much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them forsharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go whenit is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to themabout their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how,at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can doall the things the current body can't do any longer... . i DO believethat euthanasia is often the final gift that we can give them inreturn for all they have given us--the most profound thing i've everbeen
RE: Gracie is at peace now
Dear Nina It's clear Grace lived up to her name till the last physical moment she shared with you; thank you for taking the time in the midst of your grief to share those last moments with us. These are heartbreaking times for you, but it seems to me the bond you and Grace have is so strong that she will always be with you. For certain, she couldn't have chosen a more loving or devoted companion than you, dear Nina, to share her life with. Sharing your tears, much love, Kerry -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nina Sent: Friday, September 23, 2005 1:29 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Gracie is at peace now Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my heart warmer. I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be. The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together. Much love, Nina TenHouseCats wrote: oh, nina-- i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in more than a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believe that grace is at the bridge as i write this. all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart... i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break time and time again, and still have room to love again. someone said once that the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws digging their permanent, forever place in our hearts. i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME, rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's easier in ways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred way when the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergency vet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding their paw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against my heart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quite been able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go and go home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i've wanted to scream to the vet, no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's not really time?, i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only to return to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my arms when that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone when that's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respect their need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snout resuscitation i have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiser about the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they know how much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them for sharing their lives
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Dear Nina, I am so happy she gave you that last precious gift. Revel in the precious gift of all the memories you have of her. She received many lifetimes of love in the short time she was here. Take care of yourselves; you're in my thoughts and prayers. Love, JulieNina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they knowhow much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them forsharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go whenit is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to themabout their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how,at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can doall the things the current body can't do any longer... . i DO believethat euthanasia is often the final gift that we can give them inreturn for all they have given us--the most profound thing i've everbeen told is that it's better
RE: Gracie is at peace now
Nina - thank you for writing to us - I know you probably are not up for anything right now, but I feel peaceful knowing that Grace is - I am crying so very hard reading your email, but almost feel like congratulating on Grace's new journey - free of pain - I know she so wanted to be out of the body - as I said to you last night, I am so very proud of her all the gifts she has shared with you and your family during her journey of this life time she just passed - I am so sure that you and Grace will meet again - just like I and George (and all other kitties who passed before me) - until then... so long.. PS. Remember, though we can't see them, they can see you -- be happy for Gracie - Love and big hugs to you and Gracie. Hideyo -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of MacKenzie, Kerry N. Sent: Friday, September 23, 2005 1:04 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: Gracie is at peace now Dear Nina It's clear Grace lived up to her name till the last physical moment she shared with you; thank you for taking the time in the midst of your grief to share those last moments with us. These are heartbreaking times for you, but it seems to me the bond you and Grace have is so strong that she will always be with you. For certain, she couldn't have chosen a more loving or devoted companion than you, dear Nina, to share her life with. Sharing your tears, much love, Kerry -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nina Sent: Friday, September 23, 2005 1:29 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Gracie is at peace now Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my heart warmer. I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be. The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together. Much love, Nina TenHouseCats wrote: oh, nina-- i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in more than a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believe that grace is at the bridge as i write this. all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart... i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break time and time again, and still have room to love again. someone said once that the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws digging their permanent, forever place in our hearts. i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME, rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's easier in ways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred way when the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergency vet at 4 in the morning when
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Nina, Hugs to you in your grief of losing Gracie. She sounds so wonderful in your memories. Del - Original Message - From: Nina To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, September 23, 2005 1:29 PM Subject: Gracie is at peace now Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they knowhow much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them forsharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go whenit is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to themabout their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how,at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can doall the things the curre
Re: Gracie is at peace now
I share the grief of your loss. Great big hugs to you and Bruce. Grace will always be near in spirit. Goodnight, sweet Grace... =^..^= Terri, Siggie the Tomato Vampire, Guinevere, Sammi, Travis, and 5 furangels: RuthieGirl, Samantha, Arielle, Gareth, Alec Salome' =^..^= Furkid Photos! http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7sgqa/My FeLV Site: http://pages.ivillage.com/ruthiegirl1/MyFeLVinformationSite/My Personal Page: http://www.geocities.com/ruthiegirl1/terrispage.html?1083970447350 - Original Message - From: Nina To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, September 23, 2005 2:29 PM Subject: Gracie is at peace now Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure
Re: Gracie is at peace now
Nina, I am so sorry I can hardly stand it. Michelle-Original Message-From: Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSent: Fri, 23 Sep 2005 11:29:20 -0700Subject: Gracie is at peace now Thank you Mary Christine, and thank you to everyone that has been there with us throughout our journey together. Your support has meant the world to us. Grace is free now. She was more than ready to go, she was anxious to go. She knew two days ago, I knew yesterday. Thankfully she didn't seem to suffer too much in her last days, just very tired, very ready. I'm glad it was our beloved Dr. Ortega that helped her across. She never left my touch and I spoke to her the whole time. It was gentle and peaceful, Dr. Ortega was kind and considerate, just like we knew she would be. There was no trouble finding a vein in her back leg. Blessings to those who know what they are doing. She even purred when we entered the exam room. She had been pulling away from me these last couple of days. That may have been the hardest aspect of her passing, that while she was still here she was already breaking the ties that held her to this world. I began mourning her two days ago when I knew she would never again jump gaily in my lap. Never again be my "heart warmer". I was asking her to let me warm her heart now, let me get her heart chakra spinning, as she'd done for me so many times. I thought that was never to be again. When we sat peacefully waiting for the doctor and the gurney, she gave me the most wonderful gift. She stretched herself out on her back in my arms and luxuriated in my scratching her neck and her chest. I am so grateful that she chose to be my heart warmer one more time, that she came back to me before she had to finally leave her wonderful little body behind. Bruce and I have just buried her in one of her favorite spots, a spot that she would sit and watch and listen and nap for hours. It was so hard to let go of her perfect little body for the last time. Because, you see, it was perfect. I told her that all the time. That she was perfect, just the way she was. I wouldn't change a thing about knowing her and loving her. She has been an incredible joy in my life and she always will be.The first time we almost lost her she was only 5 mos old. Gracie has trusted me to decide what was best for her, she has been my willing partner in trying to find a way to help her stay. It was time to trust her, she knew what was best. We were partners, we were friends, she was my girl and she welcomed me as her mommy without fur. I thank her for her gifts to me and for the lessons we learned together.Much love,NinaTenHouseCats wrote:oh, nina--i'm so sorry. this is the first time i've had the computer up in morethan a day--glorious thunderstorms all day yesterday, so i believethat grace is at the bridge as i write this.all GLOW to her to find her way safely, and to heal your heart...i really liked the illusion of a great heart being able to break timeand time again, and still have room to love again. someone said oncethat the pain we feel when they leave is their little claws diggingtheir permanent, forever place in our hearts.i've done things every way there is--holding on too long for ME,rather than for them (i don't do that anymore, tho it's "easier" inways to do so), having the vet come to the house (my preferred waywhen the cat needs my help to cross), rushing a kitty to the emergencyvet at 4 in the morning when they are clearly suffering, holding theirpaw as they consciously let go, holding them in my arms, against myheart, even after their spirits are long gone but they haven't quitebeen able to leave their bodies behind; i've begged them to let go andgo home, i've begged the universe to let them stay with me, i'vewanted to scream to the vet, "no! what if i'm wrong, what if it's notreally time?," i've gone to get the valium to help them relax only toreturn to find they'd gone on without me; i've held them in my armswhen that's what they seemed to want, and let them be alone whenthat's what they wanted--tho that is the HARDEST for me, to respecttheir need to transition in their own space; i've done mouth-to-snoutresuscitationi have learned to listen to them, knowing that they are much wiserabout the cycles of life than i will ever be. i make sure they knowhow much i love them, that i will ALWAYS love them, i thank them forsharing their lives with me, and i tell them they are free to go whenit is time. i ask them to tell me if they need my help; i talk to themabout their kittenhoods, and how much fun we've had together, and how,at the bridge, they will have young healthy bodies again and can doall the things the current body can't do any longer... . i DO believethat euthanasia is often the final gift that we can give them inreturn for all they have given us--the most profound thing i've everbeen told is that it's better to send them home one day too soon than10 minutes too late
