Jul 11, 2010

Rest Peacefully, My Girl

I had to put my sweet old cat down today. It was with a very heavy heart. I knew this day was coming, as her kidneys have been failing. But, do we ever really expect on the day it arrives?

We had a good night last night. She sat on my chest and purred. She slept with me, tucked under my arm. But she wasn't feeling well this morning, and I knew the kidney issues had probably raised their ugly head again.

I got Peanut when she was about 4 months old. She had been found as a stray, left outside in the cold in New Hampshire. That was 1993.

She was, I'm told, a typical calico. Fiesty, opinionated, strong willed. She loved to play fetch when she was younger. Loved to stay outside in the spring, sunning in the garden. Loved to chase bugs. Loved string and shoelaces. She didn't meow, as much as chirp. Loved tuna fish and chicken. Loved me, and I loved her right back.

Fast forward, through a divorce, 5 moves, two kids, another cat, and a dog. She had become frail, skinny, unable to keep on weight despite her appetite. A few months ago she had a terrible infection that almost took her from me. But she bounced back pretty well. She was, after all, a hardy, hearty cat from New England.

It was the loving thing to do, to let my sweet girl go. I could have kept her going for another few months, but that would have been for me, not her. Love is not selfish. It does hurt, though.

I buried her out in our orchard, out in the long grass, under the sun. Amidst the birds and the bugs and the butterflies. Rest, sweet girl. I love you.

14 comments:

Gigi said...

Oh Lee! I'm so sorry!

natalea said...

so sorry to hear it Lee...
xo

Lisa said...

Lee, so sorry to hear your news. you did the right thing..letting our pets go with dignity is something we can give them when the time comes to cross the rainbow bridge.
rest in peace sweet girl...

The Other Side of Me said...

She always loved you so. Tough day. Hope you feel better this week.

Tam

The Feathered Nest said...

I'm so very sorry sweet Lee ~ these animals become such precious members of our families...sending you hugs and love sweet friend ~

Outstanding Stranger said...

I had tears reading your post about your sweet cat. I had lost my Miss Rose two years ago and have been thinking about her alot lately. She was 16. We get so attached to our little pets. Hugs, Diane

Lynne's Somewhat Invented Life said...

Oh Lee, I'm so sorry. I'm glad you buried her in the orchard. When she is resurected it will be a good place to start again. She was a beautiful cat.

Dorthe said...

Dear Lee,
so sad, but so right to do.
The last and best way of showing love to your beloved cat.
Hugs ,Dorthe

Julie Ann said...

Ohhh, such a pretty baby!! I'm so sorry that she's passed. She will always be with you in spirit. *Big Hugs*

cinnibonbon said...

Oh dearest friend, I am so very sorry. This is heart breaking news, but you know you did what was best for your beloved. May she always walk in the sunshine beside you.

xoxo
Luz

vera said...

I am so so so sorry. <3

cookievf said...

Hi Lee,

Beautiful post. Peanut is one gorgeous, lucky girl to have had such a wonderful life and to be so loved.

I found you after seeing your Collage Camp post mentioning you sold a pretty "Home" sign.. I am so glad I stopped by =D

It's always nice to make a new "blog friend."

- vicki (from CT)xo

Julie Pishny said...

Lee, I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your sweet friend. It's heartbreaking, isn't it? It also says alot about mankind and our ability to love so fully that our love extends to our four legged friends. It's a sign that there is always hope for us yet. Such a strong bond with not a word exchanged between us...just the stroke of a gentle hand and the wetness of a small nose as it touches our cheek. Blessings all - Hugs - Julie

Cassie Shella said...

I'm so sorry Lee, our pets are so much more than that. They truly know the meaning of unconditional love. Hang in there and I will say lots of prayers for you.