To view or leave comments on this story, click HERE.
(Here’s what’s happening in our world this week … it’s been a rough weekend as I grieve the loss of my beautiful Charley, the little black cat that Tim sent me the day after he passed. Read all about her life with me here. -jb)
Dear Readers, it’s been a rough weekend here. Yesterday, I was out and about taking pictures of the ice shanties and winter scenes around the OMP, and I got a call from my son Will. He heard a big noise and came downstairs to find our sweet CharleyGirl on the floor next to her cat condo.
Old Mission Gazette is Reader Supported.
Click Here to Donate and Keep the Gazette Going.
We think she either jumped or fell, took a few last gasps (Will saw her do this), and was gone. We called our regular vet, Oakwood Veterinary Hospital, and they said to take her into Bay Area Pet Hospital, who offers 24/7 emergency care. We knew she was gone, but wanted to have them check her over and make sure.
They said it was probably some sort of heart issue or blood clot, and that it’s somewhat common in cats in their middle years (Charley was about five years old). She’d had all her yearly checkups, and there was no way to know ahead of time that this might happen.
I’m still in shock at the loss of my beloved cat that Tim sent me the day after he passed. I don’t know why I only got to have four years with her, but she sure made those four years not only bearable, but filled with comfort and joy.
I will miss that little bundle of fur that always knew when I was grieving, always knew when I needed her, and made life so much better. I’ll miss her curled up next to me when I woke up every morning, sacked out in front of the fire, and always on my lap whenever I sat down. I’m grateful for the time we had together.
Bay Area Pet Hospital will do a cremation, I’ll go pick up her ashes when they’re ready and set them next to Tim’s on the piano.
I honestly don’t know how I’ll get along without her, but I’ll do my best and look for signs from both her and Tim. I don’t know what God’s plan is – I just have to have faith that there’s a way forward. We all do.
I know you’re all grieving with me – love you all.
Also Read…
To view or leave comments on this story, click HERE.
Jane, my hearts breaks for you. I loved reading about her in the Gazette. Praying for comfort.
I am so very sorry for your loss of your dear Charlie. She was such a special cat. Losing a beloved pet is devastating. Please be gentle with yourselves and let the tears come when they need to. Listen to your inner voice as to what you need and be on the look-out for another stray cat! Tim sent you one; he may well send another one!
Sending love and healing energy.
Love you mama. Beautifully written. 🙌🏻💜🙏🏻
So sorry, Jane. Losing pets is hard.
Oh Jane! Our hearts are breaking for you. Charley came into your life and gave you such comfort and joy in your grief. In December we said goodbye to our black cat and we think God calls cats to Him when HE needs their comfort. May your memories comfort you in the days ahead. And you never know, Tim and Charley may send you another angel,
Oh Jane, I can’t tell you how sad this made me! I know how much she meant to you and how much the timing of her arrival helped you in your grief. Thinking of you and wishing you peace.
I am so sorry for yr loss, Jane. I moved to OM last summer and just started reading yr gazette last fall. I can tell how much you loved her and what a big part of your life she was. I hope time and memories of Charley help you heal.
So sorry to hear this news. Our four footed friends bring us such joy and comfort. Praying for you Hane!
Jane, I’m so sorry to hear about your beautiful friend Charlie. We will all miss the stories and updates on your adventures. It never fails to amaze me on how much comfort, joy and friendship our four-legged friends can bring us. Thinking of you.
Jane, I’m so sorry! Our kitties are so special and bring us such comfort. Sending prays and healing thoughts.
ALL OF US who follow you on the Gazette cried upon reading this yesterday. Your story of Tim & Charlie is both sad and beautiful. Life isn’t fair.. but hang in there, girl; and know you have many, many friends who love you.
I am so sorry to hear this! I loved that he came to you that way and I enjoyed stories about him! We also lost a black kittie about the same age in the same way so we know how hard it is! Thank you for sharing him with us!
Mary and I are so sorry Jane. The loss of a pet always leaves a hole in one’s heart. Our hearts go out to you. Harry
I’m so sorry for your loss; I loved reading stories about you and Charley.
So sorry to hear about this Jane. I hope Tim will send you another animal to keep you good company.
My sympathy to you Jane on the loss of your Charley. It is always very hard to lose a much loved pet and even more so in your case when she was gift from a a recently lost love.
So, so sorry for your loss. Charley was such a gift!
Hi Jane. So sorry to read this about Charley. Losing a pet is so much harder than one expects. We lost our little dog a few months ago and so we know what you know – the grief is unimaginable. No way over it – you just have to go through it. And it will take some time. Charley had some special significance because of the way she came into your life and that makes her passing even more difficult. Thinking of you . . . .
My heart is breaking for you.
Jane, I am so sorry you lost your beloved kitty Charley. I know that pain too well. Yes, when the time is right get another kitty or two or three.
Jane, so very sorry to hear about the loss of Charley your lovely kitty, and all that you are going through. Just know that we care about you and are sending hugs and prayers for your heart and eye to heal.
Losing a companion like Charley so unexpectedly is a true shock to the heart.