:: Cherish every moment you have with your loved ones, because you never know when you might lose them. ::

Dear Gracie,

I remember the first time I saw you. It was love at first site. I think you felt the same, as you didn’t struggle to get out of my arms when I picked you up. You were the sweetest little girl I had ever seen; four milk-dipped paws, the silkiest fur I had ever felt, the face of a little angel. Right from the start, I knew we were meant to be together. 

Yes, the beginning of our relationship was a little rocky. Your previous adopter, who not only thought you were a boy, but also named you ‘Saden,’ didn’t love you the way you needed to be loved. So I don’t blame you for acting out and leaving presents on her bed… As a matter of fact, I would have done the same exact thing.

Though I had to wash my sheets several times, I refused to give up, because I knew you would begin to trust me. All you needed was patience, protection and love; something every little furry creature deserves. Within a few weeks, you decided I wasn’t so bad, and in no time, you were sleeping across my belly every single night. Presents on the sheets were a thing of the past.

Our bond grew stronger and stronger. You became my constant, my best friend and offered me unconditional love. I loved coming home each day to give you a squeeze and see your little face – you were my joy. My boyfriend at the time (now my husband), was convinced that I loved you more than him, because I would make him move over so that you had plenty of space to sprawl out on the bed… or couch… or floor… or wherever we all may be sitting. I was always concerned about your comfort and happiness. Next to me was where you wanted to be, and I felt the same way.

Each day got a little easier between you and me, and before we knew it, our life together became second-nature.

Our evening ritual consisted of 60 minutes of brushing, loving and suppertime, where you would be prepared with several meow’s to let me know you were ready for your dinner. I would call out your meal each night, and I know it was your way of saying; “that sounds perfect!” The best part of the evening though was getting to snuggle with you.

Even though you woke me up each morning with a loud ROAR in my face, I adored it because it was your way of reminding me that you were there. You would follow me all over the house, joining me for yoga, work time, making beds or folding clothes … my true companion and greatest comfort. When I was sad, you somehow always knew how to cheer me up. You were amazing at that.

My favorite time with you though was nap time! Gosh, we both loved it, didn’t we?! I would hop up on our huge white couch, pull the fuzzy blanket over me, and you would snuggle in my arm underneath the blanket, kneading me and purring, until we both fell fast asleep. Life was perfect with you.

My evenings are now quiet, the house is very lonely, and I have a hard time taking naps. I am working on my happiness, because I know you wouldn’t want me to be sad. I hear time heals all wounds, and so I’m really counting on that.

I lost you too soon, but I hope you know that I love you so much. You will always be a part of me, and I will never, never forget you, or the memories that we had together.

I love you so much Gracie Girl.

Your mom,

~ Danielle