Wednesday 18 September 2013

parting is such sweet sorrow

It seems like only yesterday when I was writing about the loss of my good friend Dash and now, today, I am writing about another loss.  The loss of my Auntie Snowdrop.  My dear, sweet Auntie Snowdrop.  Taken from us at the young age of sixteen and a half.  It isn't fair.  It just isn't fair.

Snowdrop had been showing her age, I am told.  I hadn't really noticed myself but the peeps said she was.  They were worried 'bout her 'cause her appetite wasn't quite as good as usual and she didn't play as much as she had.  She didn't race around, chasing the rest of us cats anymore or climb up the back of the couch or jump up on the counters.  But at sixteen, how much playin' does a peep expect from a cat?  I mean, seriously...

Also, Auntie Snowdrop had a growth on her side.  Our doctor had seen it but didn't know for sure what the cause was.  It didn't seem to bother Snowdrop at all.  Apparently, at her last check-up, the doctor took a really good look at the growth and felt all around it.  It wasn't hurtin' her or anything.  Not even with all the pokin' and proddin' that doctors do.  My aunties' mama, Alicia, died from cancer eleven years ago this month and the peeps thought that Snowdrop might have it, too.  Together, our doctor and the peeps decided that as long as the growth didn't hurt Snowdrop, they should leave it alone.  After all, she was sixteen years old and even if it did turn out to be cancer, they weren't gonna put her through any really invasive procedures.

Then on Sunday, Snowdrop stopped eatin'.  The peeps tried to entice her with all sorts of goodies but she just wasn't interested.  Didn't even want to have anything to do with the Fancy Feast.  That was pretty unusual for my auntie.  That would have been unusual for any of us.  We all love the stuff.  But when peep #1 put down a plate with one of Snowdrop's favourites, Snowdrop got up and walked away.  My Auntie Blossom helped her out by polishing it off.

At some point on Sunday, Snow - that's what we used to call her for short - crawled under the big chair in the family room.  The peeps hoped she would sleep for a bit and then feel better afterwards.  Eventually, she came out from under the chair but she wasn't feelin' better.  She was feelin' much, much worse.  She was havin' trouble walkin' and still wouldn't eat. 

She was thirsty though so peep #1 gave her water.  Snowdrop wanted to drink out of a bowl but the peep was scared that she was holdin' her head so low in the water that she might accidentally drown.  So ol' peepers brought my auntie into the family room and gave her water with a syringe.  She lapped it right up.  The peep released the water very, very slowly and Snowdrop lapped each drop of water as it fell from the syringe.

By late evening, Snowdrop began to cry every now and then.  The only things that would comfort her were drinks of water and havin' my peep sit next to her and tickle the top of her head or massage her ears so my peep did that.  She stayed by Snowdrop and gave her a large syringe of water every hour or two.

Snowdrop's sisters, Blossom and Primrose, stayed in the family room all night.  Not cuddled up with Snowdrop like they often did but near.  They seemed to sense that something was seriously wrong. 

The peep slept on the couch in the family room, Sunday night, so as to be near Snowdrop.  She didn't get much sleep though.  Actually, I don't think she got any at all.  She kept getting up to check on Snowdrop and give her more water if she wanted it.  She spent a lot of time just sitting on the floor next to the big chair, bein' near my auntie.

My peeps knew that Snowdrop's time was near.  Peep #1 was praying that my auntie would quietly and peacefully slip away in her sleep just as Snowdrop's mama, Alicia had, eleven years before.  The peep told Snowdrop she had nothin' to fear.  That she should feel free to go to her mama up in Heaven, if she was ready.

When morning came, Snowdrop wasn't any better.  She was still cryin' every now and then and couldn't walk on her own.  The peeps made the call they didn't want to make but knew had to be made.  On the morning of Monday September 16th, my Auntie Snowdrop peacefully drifted off to sleep for the final time.

Peep #1 says that my Auntie Snowdrop is in Heaven now.  She says that Snow is with her own mama, Alicia and her aunties, Kelsey and Sadie as well as her uncles, Boswell and Sebastian.  My brothers Desdemona and Callista are there, too, along with my nephew Aristotle and my own mama, Madison.  And my younger brother and sister, whom I barely knew - Alexander and Josephine.  They're there, as well.

Peep #1 says that together they'll be chasing butterflies in sun-drenched fields of nip.  When tired out from all that butterfly chasing, they will have plenty of sun puddles from which to choose for naps.  She says that Auntie Snowdrop will never again feel pain or loss.  She will only know love and happiness.  She says that Auntie Snowdrop is now, and always will be, safe in Heaven.

Although right now I am so very sad and miss Snow so very much, the peep says that one day, I will meet up with my auntie again.  For now, we must part because it was Snowdrop's time to leave this earth but one day, in the distant future, we will reunite once more.  She says I must hold on to that thought.  That that thought is what will get me through this difficult time.  The knowledge that in the future, we will once more be together as a family again.  She says that this is why parting can be sweet sorrow.  Parting now is horribly sad but our family reunion in the future will be the sweetest of occasions, indeed.

51 comments:

  1. Nissy
    we are so very very sorry to hear that your dear Auntie Snowdrop had to leave for the Bridge. We know that there are no words that can comfort an aching heart with such a loss. We know that this last act of compassion was the hardest but most gracefully and gratefully accepted by Snow to be released back to her other family and friends. No matter, the act of loss is a difficult one, and it will take some time to adjust and accept. We will keep you in our hearts and prayers of healing. Farewell for now dear Snowdrop you were well loved and you will be missed. Until we all see you again...

    xoxoxox

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  2. We are so sorry to hear that your Auntie Snowdrop has gone to the Bridge. We will say a purrayer for her.
    Luv Hannah and Lucy xx xx

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  3. Oh we are so so sorry. Sounds like Snow drop had a great life and knew lots of love. Just remember that she is running around heaven now like a young kitten. Sending lots of hugs and purrs. Take care.

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  4. I sorry for ur loss. I am at the Rainbow Bridge, too. It is peaceful up here. {{{{Luv}}}}

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  5. We are so sorry to hear about your Auntie Snowdrop, words can not express our sorrow at your loss. Purrs of comfort and love for those she leaves behind.

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  6. We are very sorry to hear about Auntie Snowdrop. She was a very loved cat and I am certain you will hold her memory in your heart for a very long time. Purrs.

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  7. We are so sad and sorry that Auntie Snowdrop ran off to the Bridge. You are all in our thoughts and purrs. (((hugs)))

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  8. My heart hurts for you having recently having to say goodbye to a special little tortie myself...I hope your Snowdrop and my Tara are romping together at the Bridge.

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  9. We're sorry for the loss of your Auntie Snowdrop. She was loved and cared for - and now missed. Hugs, purrs and pawtaps

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  10. So very sad for you and the whole family Nissy. I know Snowdrop is free to play over the Bridge so all those who have gone before but it doesn't help the "now" of loss. Mom and I send our hugs and love.

    Your Friend, Sammy

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  11. We here send you love and kisses!! So sorry for your loss. Tomorrow it will have been one year since I lost my beautiful dog Zoie!!! My last ever dog!!! So sad!! So sorry for Snowdrop!!

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  12. We are so sorry that Auntie Snowdrop has crossed over. You will see her again one day. She is happy, and running free, and eating tons of good food. She feels like a kitten again! Many hugs and purrs and purrayers to all of you at this time.

    Luf, Us and Maw

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  13. Mummy Janey's eyes are leaking but we told her that Snowdrop is free from pain, fear,and all the things that upset us. We know that she was loved very very much...and for a cat that is the bestest thing ever. Snowdrop is feeling young and sprightly again,and that she is also in your hearts...cats are clever like that.
    The REAL Maple Syrup Mob xxxxx

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  14. Beautiful words for such loss. We are sorry your Auntie Snowdrop was needed at the Bridge. That reunion must have been a very happy one, one we'll all enjoy someday. Hugs and purrs...

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  15. We are sorry for your loss, but remember Auntie is looking down on you all as an angel, and that kinda isn't a loss and not a loss forever as someday you all will be together.
    Stay well, Nissy. We don't want to lose you too!! You have many more posts to make!!!
    QUINN

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  16. We are so very sorry ta hear that yer Auntie Snowdrop had to leave for the Bridge. But we are glad that she can run around again an eat an drink.

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  17. We are so sorry for your loss. There must be quite a large family reunion at the Bridge right now!
    Sending you and your family much purrs and hugs.

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  18. Me and my mom-person are so sorry to hear that your Auntie Snowdrop has gone to the Bridge :(
    Sending lot of (((purrs))) and huggies <3

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  19. I am so sorry, Nerissa. Purrs to you and your family.

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  20. We are sending purrs of support to you and all of your family Nerissa. We know that someday we will all be together and laugh about the things we did back here.
    Love you
    Timmy and Family

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  21. So sorry to hear about Auntie Snowdrop Nerissa. We are purring support for you and your family and know we will all be laughing one day about all the things we did here on the good old blue planet.
    Purrs
    Timmy and Family

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  22. God's speed to ewe Snowdrop, N nissy...we bee trooly trooly sorry to lurn bout yur aunt....pleez noe her in deed iz in heaven N her iz az happee N healthee az her wuz aza wee kitteh. God's strength two yur peepz, we noe this is never easy XOXOXOXOXX

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  23. Nissy, we are so sorry for the sadness you all have. It is so hard to say good-bye to loved ones. Sending you some purrs and big hugs and hope that helps even a little bit.

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  24. OH Nissy and family, I am so sorry, so sorry. Bless you and may your hearts ease in time. You know, the parties at the Rainbow Bridge must be the best ever - right>

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  25. Oh Nissy, it's so very difficult. It seems especially hard for the peeps who reckon time a bit differently than we kittehs do. Treat the peeps gently as they grieve for your auntie, too.

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  26. We just hear the sad news about dear Auntie Snowball and send hugs and purrs of condolence.

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  27. Our moony is so glad that all the previous kitties who lived with her and our dad passed without being helped. She is so sorry for you, Nissy, and all the kitties and peeps at your house that Auntie Snowdrop had to leave you. We know everyone's heart is breaking and you all feel her loss deeply. She certainly does have a lot of playmates who will keep her busy while she waits for the rest of you. Just remember what a great 16 years she had in such a loving and giving home. We know that's what she remembers. Love, purrs and extra hugs for all from us and our Mom Janet, Lily Olivia, Mauricio, Misty May, Giulietta, Fiona, Astrid, Lisbeth and Calista Jo

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  28. We are so sorry to read about angel Auntie Snowdrop. May she chase many butterflies with her angel family. Take care
    x

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  29. I am so sorry for your loss of your Auntie Snowdrop. She is happy and healthy at the Bridge now. Purrs from me and hugs from my mum.

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  30. Mom and I are so sorry about Auntie Snowdrop. Mommy knows the pain and sorrow and we both send love and kisses to you all, until we meet again. xoxoxox

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  31. Dear Snowdrop, we are sorry you had to leave, but we know how special and loved you were while you were here. Hugs and purrs from all of us.

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  32. Oh Nissy we are so Sorry to hear about your Auntie Snowdrop, dis kinda newz always makez owr mom leaky eyed :'(
    We sending you all Comfurting Purrz and loud purrayerz fur Bright Light to guide your Aunti Snowdrop's way.
    We sure dat Penelope and all who came before will be dere to Greet her and Welcome her.♥♥♥♥♥♥

    Safe Journey Auntie Snowdrop ~

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  33. I am sorry for your loss. Hugs and purrs.
    Sue B
    Charlie,Cashew,Garfield,Tubby

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  34. We're so sorry that Snowdrop had to leave for the Bridge. It's so hard for those who are left behind but we know Snowdrop is running free and healthy at the Bridge.

    The Florida Furkids and Mom Sharon

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  35. We're real sorry to hear that your Auntie Snowdrop has gone to the Bridge. We send you all comforting purrs and headbutts.

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  36. We are adding our purrs to the chorus of sympathy, we are so sorry that it was Auntie Snowdrop's time to run off. Every day is precious and we are sure that Snow loved hers with you.

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  37. Awww Nerissa, I am so sorry to read about Snowdrop crossing the Rainbow Bridge. It is true that she feels no pain now. And those sun puddles in heaven will surely help her to watch over you and your peeps.
    We are all sending lots of purrs and hugs

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  38. What a pawty they will be having in heaven!! Sending you all a mass hug.

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  39. Oh no Dash and now Auntie Snowdrop. We are so sorry you have lost your friends. Run free and fast over the rainbow bridge Snowdrop. God bless.
    Best wishes Molly

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  40. Oh no, Nissy, we are so sorry for these losses. It is so hard and depressing to lose such special friends. We are thinking of you and sending you warm piggy hugs to comfort you. xo

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  41. we are so very, very sorry. You are in our thoughts and prayers
    (((((hugs))))

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  42. That is so sad, Nissy, but your Auntie Snowdrop is leaping for joy now. You never get old at the Bridge!! That was a lovely tribute x0x

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  43. Pawkiss for comfort my furriend!

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  44. I am so sorry about Auntie Snowdrop and I know how sad you must all be. She was obviously very loved.

    Purrs to you...

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  45. Oh Nissy...

    We are so SORRY we didn't get over here yesterday!
    We are sooooooooooooooo SORRY for your loss! Mom was crying over this!!
    We send ((((((HUGS))))) and lots and lots and lots of purrs!! She will be missed:-( but always LOVED!

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  46. Oh, poor Snowdrop! It's so awful when a cat stops eating and there's nothing we can do about it. It's also amazing to see the 6th sense that cats so often show particularly when another cat is ill like this. I was very sad reading it...

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  47. Pee Ess, Nissy...our mommy sented you an email last night...!

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  48. Purrs and headbumps to comfort you on the passing of your Auntie Snowdrop. We did like reading about how close the two of you were, that's very special.

    Mindy
    Moe
    Cookie
    Mike

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  49. My heart sobs for your loss and your pain, Niss. As you know, I can totally relate to how Snowdrop's passing has touched your family. Please know me and my mom are thinking of you with loving hearts.

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  50. Aw, Nerissa, I am sorry to hear of the departure of your Beautiful Tortie Auntie Snowdrop. ::bows head:: She had a life full of loves and good noms and grand adventures with her Human and Fur family, and peeps who loved her so much right up to the time came to help her Onward.

    That's the kind of life I wish ALL kitties could have. XOXOXO

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  51. Another sad story. Sorry your auntie snowdrop crossed over the bridge. Purrs.

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