THERE'S A TIME . . .: The Passing of Lilly

Sometimes there are signs of things to come. Both sad and happy, healthy and sickly. A feeling of the passage of life - time.

me and Lilly Aug 2024

This summer, not over yet, suddenly took a break from the heat. Nature allowed a wonderful cool autumn-like visit to stay with us for nearly a week this August.

I certainly enjoy autumn most of all. Cool breezes, comfy night temps, just cold enough to have to put my socks on.

And my cats love to cuddle with me through the night in cool or cold times. Being a hot summer, they tended to sleep elsewhere. But this gift from nature, the autumn-feel, brought them back to me.

Merci, Luke, Lilly & me Aug 2024

One last time for Lilly. It all happened so fast within three and a half days, she had become ill. Waited to hear from vet and finally got appointment, but too late. She died hours before. She died at home. I had held her part of the night, then lay next to her. I held her paws and pet her. When I had to go to the bathroom, she reached out her paw, patting me - telling me to stay. I rushed back to hold her on my chest and we lay there awhile. I talked to her, I prayed. Then I realized there were no more words I could say. My love and commitment were expressed; my pleas in prayers were all cried out. It was totally in God’s hands, and in Lilly’s willingness to let go.

I tried some words again. “Please let go Lilly, please let go. The Lord is waiting for you. So is Snapper, Nikki, Bailey and you’ll meet Bon Ami and Chelsea.”

She moved in pain, but no meows. Her mouth opened briefly a few times. Her eyes sank away. Breathing was labored, deep, slowing down.

“I’m with you.” Last breath. No heartbeat. My baby girl is gone.

Lilly April 2023

What a blessing it was to have this brief autumn-like weather in Lilly’s last week of life. It was a sort of comfort.

All around the world, folks and their pets tweeted us condolences. Pet love is universal.

One person I don’t even know, sent a poem that really, really touches my heart. “I’m Still Here.” (author unknown) These two lines near the end of it got me……

“I’m the colorful leaves when fall comes around.

and the pure white snow that blankets the ground.”

Fall leaves and winter snow. My spiritual connection with nature, with Lilly. We would snuggle through the cold together, providing an enduring warmth of love, lasting forever.

Rest in peace my sweet Lilly girl. See you soon. Mama loves you. Theresa M

❤Lilly born April 27, 2008; Gotcha Day June 27, 2008; died August 22, 2024 💔