After a sudden turn for the worse late last week, jennhi and I had to put our dearly beloved cat Gretchen to sleep on Monday. She was affected by a variety of internal health conditions, but it became apparent that her quality of life was degrading significantly.

She lived a long and happy life, coming just a few weeks short of reaching the 20 year milestone, which in itself is quite the achievement. We knew that this moment was coming sooner than later, but it didn't make it any easier.

I have only had the privilege to know her for the past two and a half years, yet it was enough time for a strong bond to form between us. I will miss her terribly. We loved her like our own daughter; that ultimate decision was all the more devastating as she kept her kitten external appearance up till the end.




We can only keep solace in the hope that we made the right decision. It has been a very tough weekend, but it gave us all a chance to say her goodbyes and give her all the attention she deserved.

May she rest in peace.

( More pictures... )

What better way to celebrate the new year than with some lolcat pictures of jennhi's kitty, Gretchen? Here are a few of my attempts. Click on the picture to go rate them if you like them.