I had to put my cat Gracie down this afternoon because it was time, I didn't want her to suffer and the Vet agreed. Mom and I buried her in Mom's backyard next to her big sister Friskie (my cat from childhood who I got on my 10th birthday and who died when I was 26), so Gracie is at peace. The only person she knows on the other side is my Dad and when Gracie and I had to move back home with them in '92-93, she used to sit in his lap and go to sleep.

Gracie, Adoption Day 4/15/91

      For those of you who know Gracie, you know how remarkable this is because she didn't warm up to anyone but me. Gracie and I said everything that needed to be said Friday night, as I read aloud to her from Pet Prayers & Blessings, a book that my brother Fred & and sister-in-law Madelyn had given me for my birthday in October. I told Gracie it was ok for her to go and that Dad would be there to meet her.

      As I was driving from the Vet's to Mom's for the burial, I saw and felt her leap into Dad's lap, so she's just where she's meant to be.

      Thanks to all of you who prayed for us Sunday night. She had the smooth transition I asked for with those prayers and I am eternally grateful. It was quick and she did not suffer. I had planned to read a few prayers from the above mentioned book after we buried her, but I forgot to bring it. It didn't matter though, I recited one I know by heart and it is as follows:

"Thanks to all of you who prayed for us..."
Gracie, August, 2008