12/3 Remembering Gracie - One Year Later

Discussion in 'Lantus / Levemir / Biosimilars' started by Marje and Gracie, Dec 3, 2016.

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  1. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    It has been a year since my Gracie transitioned from her beautiful earthly body to her bright heavenly spirit. I wish I could say that I’ve handled my grief this past year with courage and grace but I have not. It has overwhelmed me, and I have, at times, let myself succumb to it. Yes….I have times of happiness and joy when I think that perhaps I’ve dug my way out of the hole in my heart and stand precipitously on the edge. These moments have been because of the love and support I’ve received from Mike; Tobey, Livia; friends; and most certainly from our “family” in L/L Land and FDMB. It was the best place we never wanted to be but without you all, Gracie would not have lived a healthy, happy life for over five years with feline diabetes. We are eternally grateful for the sweet, compassionate, dedicated friends we have made here who have so intimately shared our journey.

    I have learned things in the last year about grief. Just when I thought I had my head above water and laughter and lightness of heart came a bit easier on any given day, grief was patiently waiting for me. Little things threw me back under its possession. Walking into the house after being gone and seeing all the places where she had been and should be still were enough to send me back to square one on some days. She was just such joy, love, silliness, spunkiness.....oh, and that face. It’s also so hard to leave the watching of the clock behind....thinking about that next test or feeding.

    I’ve learned that the five stages of grief….denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance…..aren’t linear and, for me, just because I thought I transitioned from one to the other didn’t mean that a previous one wouldn’t come back around. It seems constantly circuitous. I’ve also learned that acceptance doesn’t mean you accept your loved one being gone. To me, it means I’ve learned to accept that grief over Gracie’s loss will be a constant presence in my life.

    I have always believed strongly in reincarnation and that we continue to come back to this earth in a physical presence to learn new things up until the time we are able to become the teacher. I am certain that Gracie’s and my souls have been intertwined in many previous lives and that she was my human child in at least one of them; thus, this profound grief at her loss. I think this was her time to come back and teach and she did. Even into my 50s when she arrived, she still taught me so much about patience, sacrifice, love for a tiny body and huge spirit that was so much greater than I could have ever imagined.

    With this video, I want to share Gracie’s beauty, her soul, and everything that she was about as much as one can just through photos. Most of you knew her well through our condos; some of the photos are ones you’ve seen many times because they are your and my favorites but many are new (I believe we have about 1,000 photos of her).

    Thank you for reading this and honoring my Little Brown Girl. Gracie….forever and ever, my sweet little love. Not a second has gone by that my heart has not been with you and always will be.

     
  2. DebG

    DebG Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 30, 2016
    What a beautiful beautiful Gracie! The tears stream down my face and my heart feels your pain as I read and experience Gracie through your story and her photos. I am so sorry that our fur babies have to leave us. Gracie has forever imprinted her life in your hearts. In that way she will always be with you. Thank you for sharing her with all of us!!!!
     
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  3. Doodles & Karen

    Doodles & Karen Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 2, 2015
    A beautiful remembrance of a very special girl. I stopped counting my favorite photos after the 10th one! I hope that you have many memories today that make you smile along with tears of joy and sadness. Sending mega comfort vines, prayers and :bighug::bighug::bighug: for you today and always.
     
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  4. Sienne and Gabby (GA)

    Sienne and Gabby (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    I woke up this morning thinking of you and Gracie.

    A year ago today is still vivid in my memory. I was at work and remember your message about what had transpired and immediately called. Just like at that moment, I am tearful. Losing Gracie is inexorably intertwined with my loss of Gabby. It is a difficult month. I hope our kittens have found each other at the Bridge and have become the fastest of friends.

    "Cats never completely leave you. They side step time, shrug off death - come at the call of memory their beauty undiminished, their touch as gentle, their love perpetual." This is something I truly believe.

    I hope happy memories of Gracie and all of the joy she brings you give you comfort.
     
  5. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 4, 2014
    (((Marje))) A beautiful and poignant tribute to an amazing kitty who meant so much to all of us here and is so greatly missed. I've been thinking of you all day and sending my heartfelt prayers as you struggle with all the emotions that this first anniversary will bring. May you find peace and comfort dear friend in the knowledge that Gracie returned your love a hundredfold; she will forever be in your heart.:bighug::bighug::bighug:
    Suki xxx
     
  6. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014
    (((Marje)))

    What a bitter sweet day today is. One year since Gracie left this world, but she will never leave your heart. Gracie will live on forever on here as well..her Lupita Fridays are indeed a legend on FDMB You have so vividly told of Gracie's antics and life story for so long that so many members here KNOW Gracie and love her and will never forget her or her wonderful Momma.

    May all the wonderful memories you built with Gracie give you some peace on this sad anniversary and remember that Gracie guided you to Livia so you can give Livia a few extra special cuddles that will be sent to Gracie through her protege. :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:

    [​IMG]
     
  7. Judy and Boomer

    Judy and Boomer Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 23, 2014
    What a beautiful girl! She will be in your heart, and in our hearts, forever. And she will live on through stories and photos and, most importantly, memories. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  8. Josie & Ripley (GA)

    Josie & Ripley (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2012
    Oh, (((((((Marje))))))), what a beautiful collection of Gracie pics. It's true: you are forever changed, not only because of her crossing, but also because she was in your life. She was and will always be your soul-kitty.

    I remember where I was & what I was doing during a year ago today when I heard about Gracie, and my heart shattered. It broke for you, as I knew (and still know) the depth of your love for her. There are fresh tears today as I write this -- I can so easily see her little face, see her basking in her catio, feel her soft (the softest!) fur.

    There's no proper way to grieve, nor an appropriate order. Grief is chaotic and unpredictable. Today, the days leading up to this difficult anniversary, and the days to follow is a time to honor your precious girl as well as your feelings. LBG will never ever be forgotten. ❤️

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  9. Vicki and Jerry

    Vicki and Jerry Member

    Joined:
    Oct 20, 2015
    May her wonderful memories give you comfort. She will always be with you in spirit and heart. :bighug:
     
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  10. Amy&TrixieCat

    Amy&TrixieCat Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 14, 2011
    Just beautiful....thinking of you today :bighug::bighug::bighug:....
     
  11. carfurby (GA)

    carfurby (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2012
    Such a beautiful, special girl. Her personality comes through in the many pictures you have of her. I hope you can smile through your tears as you remember your sweet girl. Thank you for sharing Gracie with us. She is one of a kind. Sending prayers. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  12. WileyWonderCat

    WileyWonderCat Member

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2013
    Beautiful remembrance...thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. I find it hard to describe the way I feel about my fur babies to others who don't appreciate their importance. But here on FDMB, it's so supportive and safe. We totally understand your continued grief and pain. Thinking of you and sending prayers... :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  13. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

    Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    Never gone. Never forgotten. Always loving. Always loved. Thank you, Gracie, for being you and for watching over your wonderful mamabean.

    Dear (((Marje))), As I looked at these pictures I couldn't help thinking that a wise, old soul had lived in Gracie's body. It was palpable. I think that your bond with Gracie will only strengthen as the years go by.

    Keeping you, Mike, Tobey, and Livvie in our hearts today (and every day),

    In loving remembrance,

    Ella, Edward, Rusty, and Stu
     
  14. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    {{{Marje}}}

    What a beautiful celebration of Gracie. So fitting, a royal tribute to our Principessa.

    There are no rules for grief. We all grieve in our own way, on our own timeline. There is no wrong way to do it, no expiration date.

    Some people describe life as a gift, but I think of it more as a loan - God loans us these amazing creatures, and we gladly accept the loan, even though the terms are not clear - long or short term? High cost or low? We don't care, because we know the joy that we will receive will be worth the cost. Then God decides that the term is ended, and he calls the little beings Home. We are heartbroken, devastated, because we are never ready to give them up, even though we knew all along the loan would come due one day. Knowing that doesn't make it easier. But it doesn't stop us from doing it, because love triumphs over all, even over grief and loss. Your love for Gracie, and hers for you, is unending. So it's not surprising that your grief is, as well. But even in your darkest moments, remember that she left a part of her with you, to hold on to until you see her again, and she will never truly leave you. I believe God sent you Livia to remind you of that. We all carry a piece of those we love with us forever. So look inside yourself and see that piece of Gracie there, and celebrate her memory and all that she brought to your life. When you look at those spaces that she once occupied in your home, see the imprint of her there and know she is with you still, always.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  15. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Dear Marje, I was quite new to L & L when sweet little Gracie transitioned but none the less, it didn't take me long to realize just how loved you and Gracie were by everyone here. (Tobey too!) It is hard to believe a whole year has gone by.

    Your thoughts about grief are so accurate; the process is not linear and at any given moment we can be transported into raw stinging emotions again. The process never ends but the times in between gets a bit longer. I will have to go back to look at the video later because I am so filled up right now and need to go kiss and hug each one of my babies.

    Wishing you , Mike and Tobey peace and so glad that Livia has come to spread her joy to help with the healing.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  16. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    Thank you all so much. A hard day for Tobey, as well, I think. As I was watching her 3 videos, he sat up on the desk and intently watched them with me. Whenever there was a close-in shot of her face, he would gently reach up and touch the screen. I know he still misses her but Livvie has helped him (all of us) immensely.

    @DebG I wish you had known her and could have met her. She was so beautiful and she left an imprint on everyone, especially those like Liz and Josie who got to actually meet her.
    @Doodles & Karen Thank you, my sweet friend. Yes...many memories and she brought so much joy. I had a hard time deciding which of her favorite photos to include but also to show different ones of her. Every photo of her is a favorite.
    @Sienne and Gabby (GA) Thank you for thinking of us today as I am thinking of you and Gabby and knowing your head is probably where mine has been lately....thinking back a year ago. I so appreciated your call and the comfort your friendship has brought me through the years. I am certain they have found each other and wait patiently for us.
    @suki & crystal (GA) ((((Suki)))) I know you know what is in my heart about what your friendship means to me. Thank you so much for being there to share grief and understanding. Love you.
    @Tuxedo Mom Your words mean so much to me, Mary Ann. Thank you and thank you for remembering Lupita Fridays....such an important part of our life. I do believe Gracie made sure that if she was not coming back, she would be certain we would get a very special kitten to teach us again about love. That is why this song means so much to me “Once more, you opened the door” because she opened the door to my heart when she came after the loss of our 21 year old kitty and then again to let Livvie in.
    @Judy and Boomer She will....thank you for remembering her and for your friendship.
    @Josie & Ripley (GA) You are so correct...always has been and always will be my heart and soul kitty. I know your love for her is great because you knew her personally, held her, felt her soft fur, and heard her sweet purr. I’m glad she got to meet some of her Aunties. I always appreciate your astute words of comfort.
    @Vicki and Jerry Thank you so much, Vicki. I know you didn’t know her so I truly appreciate you stopping by and paying her tribute.
    @Amy&TrixieCat We started this journey so close together....along with @julie & punkin (ga) and @Melissa & Tarragon and I have always felt a closeness with you all. I am so glad that Trix and Tarragon are still doing so well. (((Amy)))
    @carfurby Carla, your support and friendship through the years since you came here has always meant so much to me. Thank you...from the bottom of my heart.
    @WileyWonderCat Thank you for honoring my baby girl and for seeing your prayers, Jenny.
    @Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Your post, as others, made me cry especially because you are so right. She was a wise, old soul who came to teach me so much and her spirit was just too big for that tiny, sweet body. She guides me still. Thank you....always a dear friend, you’ve been. Tobey sends extra love.
    @Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey (((Tricia)))) you know too well all of this. I always find a comfort in your words because you always say what I need to hear when I need to hear it. I love what you said about them being on loan....your whole paragraph struck right through to my heart. I appreciate you in every way....your kindness, compassion, and especially your friendship.
    @Bobbie And Bubba Thank you for saying that....it touches my heart so very much. I think she continues to touch members like you and Karen and others who came on about the time she crossed. Please love and hug your babies for me. Hold tight.
     
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  17. Anne & Zener GA

    Anne & Zener GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2011
    Oh Marje, I knew this date was fast approaching and here it, just like grief, it sneaks up on you and smacks you in the heart. I remember this day and how shocked, helpless and deeply sad we were for your loss. These losses always bring up the passing of other kitties too. We grieve once anew for our Zener and for so many who had gone ahead. I guess it is a way of reminding us that grief stays with us as part of our life path furever. I try to appreciate these moments of unexpected grieving as reminders of what a blessing it was for us to have our precious Zener as long as we did. Gracie was such an amazing girl and I am so glad I got to meet her (and Tobey) in person. Sending hugs and loves to on this sad anniversary.
    IMG_2059.JPG
    Anne
     
  18. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    Going through a box of tissues here. Forgot I had the volume on. That song is so perfect. Most pictures I have not seen. We were only here a short time when she received her wings. The pictures are wonderful and show her catitude, infamous stink eye. She will always be with you.
     
  19. Gussie's mom (GA)

    Gussie's mom (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 25, 2016
    I had to start the video several times, it touched me deeply and I could not see it thru tears..your post and video are a beautiful testament to the love and the unending bond you share.
    I have always felt that the pain we feel remembering someone we love who has headed on ahead of us, though painful physically to our hearts and soul, is a living breathing tangible reminder and testament to how acutely we have and still do love that being...
    Sending hugs Marje:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  20. Gill & George

    Gill & George Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 27, 2015
    (((((Marje))))))
    I did not know Gracie as well as I would have liked, I hadn't been on the board long when she earned her wings, but I remember that night only too well, I was heartbroken then as I am now for you, Mike and Tobey. Thank you for sharing the video with us so we too can celebrate her life, such an expressive kitty, one of a kind.:bighug::bighug::bighug:


    I'm glad that Livvie has found her way into all of your hearts and is helping you all heal, I'm sure Gracie had a paw in that, and I would like to thank you for still hanging around and continuing to offer support. encouragement, and insight, I cannot even begin to imagine how painful it must be for you, and those other beans who find themselves grieving the loss of their sugarcat. ( you know who you are ladies, sadly too many of you, I would like to thank you all)

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  21. Asrael

    Asrael Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 28, 2015
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Beautiful video- she was such a firecracker- (and a sweetie too)- So special!

    So glad that she led you to Livvie, and that Tobey has a new sister to share his life with.

    Thank you for all your giving, all your sharing, all your help- you really are an angel to us all!

    Will be thinking of you all day- and I know dear Gracie- is right there with you in spirit!

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  22. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    (((((Marje)))))
    I loved the video of dear sweet Gracie. She looks such a sweetheart ........such wonderful memories for you.
    Grief is such an individual thing and it can creep up on you when it is least expected. Something triggers a memory......
    The first anniversary is a huge hurdle to get over ....so many memories and moments....
    I am so glad Gracie led you to Livie and she is bringing you joy. Hugs to dear Tobey.
    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  23. Dawn and Peek-a-Boo (GA)

    Dawn and Peek-a-Boo (GA) Member

    Joined:
    Dec 27, 2015
    Dear Marje,

    When I joined last year after Christmas, I was completely unaware of the tremendous loss that this L&L family had just experienced. It wasn't long before I became aware of just how special this little cat named Gracie and her loving beans were, and of course, still are.

    As difficult as it was, I forced myself to watch the entire tribute to your LBG. I wanted to get a better sense of who she was and what made her unique. I think you nailed it. That little girl was as precious as could be...even through pictures you get a sense that she was a true princess.

    As I read your words on grief, the tears flow. Every single word you wrote mirrors my experience losing Peek-a-Boo. Probably for so many others too. I thank you for really opening up about it, in such an honest way, because the emotional roller-coaster of grief on such a grand level has been something completely foreign to me. I questioned my emotional stability at times, Marje, and through sharing your grief, you've helped me to better understand mine.

    You and Mike are in my thoughts. Especially around the holidays. I'm so glad little (well, not so much anymore!) Livvie is helping all of you find joy again...especially Tobey. I, too, loved what Tricia said. We don't know the terms of these "loans", but we don't care...the joy our kitties bring is worth the cost. So true.

    With Love,
    Dawn
     
  24. Shoeskitty-GA

    Shoeskitty-GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2016
    Marje, I just watched the video and it was a beautiful tribute to your Gracie! I did not know her but I can tell how very special she was through your words and the video! I truly hope that this was somewhat cathartic for you and hopefully brought you some comfort as you gathered all of the pictures together for this. Thank you for sharing your heart to all like this. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  25. Vyktors Mum

    Vyktors Mum Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 15, 2011
    (((((Marje, Mike, Tobey))))) I feel blessed to have been able to share in the life of your precious LBG, thank you for sharing a bit more, what a very special day for Purrdy to cross.
     
  26. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Thank you so much for saying that Gill, and also my sentiments exactly!!!!
     
  27. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    @Anne & Zener GA you and LIz did so many lovely and thoughtful things when Gracie crossed; dear friends who were there for us. I know you truly understand. You two will always be so very special to us all.
    @Woodsywife (((Paula))) I know your grief is still very fresh so it means so much to me that you watched her video and posted comforting by words to me. Thank you.
    @Gussie's mom thank you, dear Les, for these very comforting words. Thank you for honoring my Gracie.
    @Gill & George (((Gill))) thank you so much. I wish I could say it's not hard to be here like I was. I wish it was easy but it is a reminder that I should still be here with my girl and doing what the rest of you are. We've lost way too many babies this year here.
    @Asrael your kindness, compassion, and caring generosity have helped me and I thank you so much.
    @Bron and Sheba. (((Bron)) I so appreciate your words and keep you and Sheba in my prayers. You are always so kind and supportive of all of us.
    @Dawn and Peek-a-Boo (GA) (((Dawn))) your post is another that brought tears to my eyes because your sweet boy was so very special and your love for him is profound. It breaks my heart that you and so many other dear friends here are grieving. I am happy that my post helped you in some way.
    @Shoeskitty Thank you so much, Sandi. I am so thankful for your sweet words.
    @Vyktors Mum ((((((Serrryn))))) thank you dear friend for posting on what is a heartbreaking day for you and your mum. I am so sorry for your loss.
    @Bobbie And Bubba :bighug::bighug:Thank you for paying it forward.
     
    Last edited: Dec 3, 2016
    Asrael likes this.
  28. MJ+Donovan

    MJ+Donovan Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
  29. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    you said it well..... and it strikes tearfully hard... i have so many of the same feelings....
    I miss my girl so much too....... especially right now with my dgm.
    it is a continuous process....and ever changing
    and I think most of us here who get involved and tune in..... are intertwined ( like Sienne said)
    so as we lose each others furbabies.... it continues to remind us of our own sadness and grief.
    But I wouldn't trade it in, even tho' sometimes it's hard to face another one finding their wings.... because
    the bottom line is a "a common love for each other........."
    our common bond holds us fast together whether we share each others joys or burdens.....


    love you all....:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  30. Mandarin'sMom

    Mandarin'sMom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 17, 2014
    What a beautiful tribute to a very special girl. Even though I have never met Gracie, I feel like I know her - there is just so much personality in every single picture. I am so glad that you have so many pictures of her... so many memories of precious moments. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  31. mariko

    mariko Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 10, 2011
    (((((Marje)))))
    I didn't expect myself to cry although I was very sad to remember the day Gracie crossed, but tears started streaming down as soon as the video started.
    It is amazing such a little creature left a paw print on so many of our hearts even though we never personally met. She was small in physique, but she had a big heart and glowing soul.
    Thank you very much for sharing the beautiful video. So many lovely pictures - baby Gracie and of course my favorite one with the leg.
    We will always and forever be sad about our kitties who have gone ahead, and we will never be done grieving, but also forever and always be so very grateful that we had them in our lives.
    Sending love to you. Sending love to Gracie too.
    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  32. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2015
    Oh Marje such a lovely and moving tribute to the timeless Gracie.
    The look in her eyes feels like she has so much healing work to do in this world.
    Almost like she came to be with you for rejuvenation as her journey was far from over. What a teacher she had been to so many.

    Your time with her was so very special and I have no doubt she checks in on you often.
    From my heart to yours :bighug:
     
  33. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    What a beautiful video Marje......of such a special soul as our LBG. She lives on in the hearts of us all that knew her

    gracie.png
     
  34. Tara & Ivana (GA)

    Tara & Ivana (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 20, 2015
  35. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    ((((Marje)))) What a beautiful video of your beautiful Gracie. Although I know it has been a year, it feels much more recent that I saw your post saying that Gracie had transitioned. I know only too well how tough these anniversaries are - it's a year today for Gracie and 4 months today for Rosa. And I agree with you about grief - I think we all have days when we think we're doing better, then one little thing or a clear picture in our minds of the one we've lost brings us right back to stage one. But in the end, no-one has the right to tell any of us how to grieve or when we should feel better. Cry when you need to, smile when you're able to. And take one day at a time. And know in your heart that Gracie will never truly leave you, as you will never truly leave her - your hearts and souls are intertwined forever. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  36. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    Marje what a beautiful tribute to Gracie! I had only been here a few months when she went to the Bridge, but it was clear how very special she was. I am sorry I never got to know her better.

    Grief is a funny thing. No two people experience it the same way, but we all know it and can relate to it. It is formless, and has no timeline or "shelf-life." When you think the worst of your grieving is over, it stalks back into your heart and you grieve afresh! I don't think it ever truly goes away, it haunts our hearts for the rest of our lives; we just learn to live with it.

    Gracie was a beautiful girl who brought so much joy, and you shared the kind of love that becomes your breath, your heartbeat. Although it is painful to think of life without her by your side, remember that she will always be there, her heart beating in yours, your breath entwined, waiting for the day you will once again be together.

    Prayers and (((hugs))) for you, and scritches for Tobey and little Livia. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:

    images (8).jpg
     
  37. Wendy&Neko

    Wendy&Neko Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Feb 28, 2012
    (((Marie, Mike, Tobey))) I have been thinking of you this week. Although today is one year of sweet Gracie's passing, there were several rough days leading up to it. Much as this week has been rough for you as you put together the video and grief stalks you again. :bighug::bighug::bighug: As much grief as you have felt this last year, there were ten years of pure joy before then. Gracie was one of a kind, much bigger than her size, a presence felt worldwide with your stories of her, leaving memories on all of our hearts.

    Best Soul Sista evah!
     
  38. Anne & Zener GA

    Anne & Zener GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2011
    (((((Marje))))) Thank you for sharing Gracie's tribute. She was a special kitty and I am privileged to have met her. I am glad that Livvie has joined your family.
    Liz
     
  39. marniepaul & miles

    marniepaul & miles Member

    Joined:
    Feb 28, 2011
    When Gracie crossed, all of us who have lost kitties felt renewed grief as one with you. I hope that making the video helped you deal with the sadness of this anniversary. Thanks for staying on and helping others with your immense wisdom.

    My daughter "directed" a whodunit movie when she was eight, I think, starring her and me and her dad, and Miles as a detective. I helped her edit the movie, but I haven't watched it since Miles died. It was a good little movie, but I'm just not ready to see it again. I am glad we made it, though. Maybe someday I won't be crushed with sadness when I watch it. I guess when we get to the point where we can think about our kitties and envision the happiest times first instead of the grief, that is acceptance.
     
    Marje and Gracie likes this.
  40. Red & Rover (GA)

    Red & Rover (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 18, 2016
    A fabulous tribute, Martje. :bighug:
     
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  41. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    I'm sorry to just get back to this but we went out of town to friends' Sat afternoon through Monday as it was just too hard to be here and then I didn't want to post with our sweet Neko crossing. But I thank you each and I read your comments on Saturday.

    @MJ+Donovan I always love that picture!
    @rhiannon and shadow (GA) we do get so attached to each others' babies that we all feel the loss so deeply.
    @Mandarin'sMom Thank you, Christina. I am glad you could see how special she was through the photos.
    @mariko Thank you, my very dear friend. I know how you loved her, too. I had to include that foot photo just for you. My baby girl did touch so many hearts.
    @jayla-n-Devon Thank you so much, sweet Jayla. I know you have a very special sense for that spirtual essence of each creature. I'm glad you could also see it in her. I always knew she was sent here to me for a very special reason.
    @Chris & China Thank you, Chris. Thank you for sharing that beautiful verse. So very special. :bighug:
    @Tara & Ivana And I appreciate you watching it....thank you!
    @manxcat419 (((April))). Your words touched my heart ...I can't even express how much they mean to me and how often I think of you in these difficult days without your sweet Rosa.
    @Squalliesmom awww, Lucy.....your sweet words made me cry. I also wish you'd had gotten to know her and read all about her silly antics over the years. Thank you so much for the comfort of your friendship.
    @Wendy&Neko And I am thinking of you and have been for the last week, (((Wendy))). Our Soul Sistas forged a bond, as did we, and they are now together again sans FD. I am so very sorry for your loss.:bighug::bighug::bighug:
    @Anne & Zener GA She loved her Auntie Liz and we are so glad you got to meet her. Love you and Anne!!!!!
    @marniepaul & miles (((Marnie))) I am so sorry for your loss of sweet Miles. The videos are hard to do but cathartic but it is still very difficult for me to watch the videos I took of her...especially the ones of her and me together so I understand how you cannotmyet watch the video with Miles. In time. We take it all as our heart allows us. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
    @Red & Rover (GA) Thank you so very much, I also think ofmyou in your grief.:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  42. julie & punkin (ga)

    julie & punkin (ga) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 17, 2011
    Gracie was a Lantus/Lev Land Legend, one of the kitties that seemed to belong to all of us. Thank you for sharing her with us, Marje. :bighug:

    I love her silly little stink-eye and all of her antics with Lupita. Precious girl.

    A year seems to just fly by . . . grief takes its own time and path. There is no right or wrong to it. That grief is the price of a deep love. Thinking of you and sending you much love, dear friend.
     
  43. Frosty

    Frosty Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 27, 2012
    Marje
    Thank you for sharing that wonderful tribute video of Gracie. Gracie was such a huge part of this forum and helped so many new diabetic kitties learn to live with the disease while you guided their humans through those most difficult and nervous first few weeks. I remember well, shortly after joining the LL family, when you and Gracie stayed up all night guiding me and PurrFace through our first low numbers period. Gracie brought you to LL and through you she helped and saved so many kitties and for that I will always be grateful to you and Gracie. She will always be a part of this wonderful place.
     
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