Hi everyone. Today is a super super sad day for me. And, when I'm sad, I write. When I'm happy I write too. I journal almost daily and it helps me sort out my thoughts and feelings. Tonight I'm writing a sad blog post to honor my sweet furry best friend - Buddy. He passed away today and I'm heartbroken and I don't know what else to do but write. So many of you loved him from reading my blog over the years and I know a lot of you feel like you knew him too. He belonged to all of us, with his big furry face. He was eleven years old....gone too soon for sure. I was hoping we would have 6-7 more years with him. But God had a different plan. Maybe someone up in heaven needed him more than we did. Or maybe his purpose was fulfilled already by loving us. Don't the great ones always go too soon? He was fine on Tuesday, and then he got very very ill suddenly, and there was nothing to be done. The vet office was kind and wonderful with me, and him. We all cried together for him. I'm still in shock. Our house feels so quiet and still and empty.
I've had cats as pets my entire life. One thing I knew right away, Buddy was different. Special. One of a kind. A legend. He was seriously the best cat ever. He brought us love and companionship and laughter and warm fuzzies. We don't have kids, so he was our kid. We doted on him and spoiled him. And he returned unconditional love in return. He came on command, he gave hugs in the morning, he followed us from room to room and always had his tail straight up in the air. He was a happy, gentle, sweet soul. If you've ever had a pet that touched your heart so strong, I know you understand. I feel like we only get one of those in our life. Buddy was my best friend. He always laid on my work desk when I was stamping. I think I will miss that the most. It's not even real yet.
I felt like I needed to share this - to honor a life that touched my life very deeply. He had a good life and he gave us more than we gave him. We feel totally blessed that he chose us as his family. We adopted him from the Sacramento SPCA and I'm going to make a donation in his name. We always say that we didn't save his life, he saved ours. We will meet him again in heaven one day! XOXO
This photo is the exact moment we met. I think he and I were made for each other. So glad Mark captured this with the camera. He was so tiny.
And this is one of the last photos I took of him - last Saturday. So regal and proud.
Say a little prayer for us and if you go out this weekend, raise your glass and cheers to Buddy.
I'm so sorry to read about sweet Buddy! Our furry critters are definitely part of our family, and I know how hard it is to lose them. I enjoyed seeing pics of him on your blog. He was a lucky boy to have y'all be his people.
Posted by: renee milner | 02/13/2018 at 12:22 PM
I am so sorry about Buddy, I remember when you brought him home, so tiny and cute. I certainly know how you feel.. Our fur babies bring so much more than love to our lives. They are such great company and our little friends, bringing us unconditional love. Cherish your memories, that is our gift that we give to each other.. know that Buddy will always be with you..xo
Posted by: Cynthia | 02/10/2018 at 05:38 PM
To Buddy, we honor you as a legendary cat who graced us with your presence. Thank you for sharing this about your kitty. I am glad you were able to share you lovely story about Buddy.
Posted by: Lucy | 02/08/2018 at 10:44 PM
Wanda, I am behind in my blog reading and I am so sorry to read this. It's heartbreaking. Losing a beloved pet is truly like losing a member of your family. I understand it all too well. I have been there. Please know that I am thinking of you and praying that your heart mends the best it can after such a devastating loss. He was a gorgeous cat. He reminded me of my Dylan. We lost him far too soon too. BIG HUGS sweet friend
Posted by: Michelle Liimatainen | 02/07/2018 at 07:27 AM
Oh I am so sorry about Buddy! I loved seeing pictures of him. I could tell he was a loving fur baby and he loved you very much. Cherish the wonderful memories. He will always hold a special place In All of our hearts. Take care
Posted by: Shari Iindsay | 02/06/2018 at 08:28 AM
Oh man.... I’m so sorry for your loss ! I know for sure what you’re talking about. One of my most incredible cat was a red hair (don’t know if it’s the correct term) like Buddy. And he has been shot in our garden. My English isn’t good enough so I can tell you the whole story. But I can ease for pain a little bit saying that, no there’s not only one, all pets are specials, it’s just on us to see it. Someday, you’ll meet another extraordinary cat or a dog on your way, and it’ll be the start of a new story, a new love, a different one from Buddy’s for sure but as strong and inconditional. Love from France, Marjorie
[margessw(at)icloud(dot)com]
Posted by: Marjorie DUMONTIER | 02/05/2018 at 09:50 PM
I know tons of people will comment... but this post is just so poignant , with the kitten pic,and all.....My heart goes out to you. My love and hugs to you, my dear.
Posted by: Ree | 02/05/2018 at 08:25 PM
Oh, Wanda, I just saw this post & wanted to say my heart goes out to you & your dear hubby. Your precious Buddy was truly special; such a handsome fella. I pray that the memories that might be so raw & painful right now, may in time bring you comfort. Thank you for sharing him with us and may you feel the love & support from all who care about you.
Posted by: Janet T. | 02/04/2018 at 06:53 PM
My heart is breaking for you. I send you hugs. It is so hard when we lose our four-legged family members. They give unconditional love. It is clear you returned the favor. Buddy's life was fuller and happier because you were in it.
Posted by: Kari D | 02/04/2018 at 11:38 AM
Oh no, Wanda, I am so sorry for your loss of Buddy.. He looked so healthy in your photo from Saturday. There is so much truth that losing a pet is like losing a child. Pet owners become so attached, and my heart breaks for you. Crafting just won’t be the same without him! Hang in there, Wanda, and take some deep breaths. Praying for you and Mark!
Posted by: Kathy Mc | 02/03/2018 at 10:30 PM
Oh Wanda, I'm so sorry to hear about Buddy -- my heart aches for you. I loved seeing the pictures of him in your craft room -- he will be missed and never forgotten. I'm praying for your comfort and peace, and I know you will be reunited with him again. I'm holding my furbabies extra tight tonight as I'm praying and grieving with you.
Love and hugs.
Posted by: Jeanie | 02/03/2018 at 08:51 PM
I'm so sorry to see your sad news. Pets are so much family members and my heart hurts for you. Hugs from Kansas
Posted by: SharonS | 02/03/2018 at 08:10 PM
I am so sorry over the loss of your darling Buddy, we all know the bond such a charmer makes with the heart.
Posted by: lin | 02/03/2018 at 06:28 PM
Oh Wanda I'm so sorry and saddened to hear about Buddy. My heart goes out to you and your hubby. You were blessed with a very special fur baby and I hope you get to have that experience again. Big hugs!
Posted by: Lizzie T | 02/03/2018 at 12:07 PM
OMG, he looks EXACTLY like my cat! Only with the white spot on the other side of the face. So this sad news really hits me, I can imagine how you feel. :-(
Posted by: Michiel Blijboom | 02/03/2018 at 08:03 AM
I wanted to include a photo of our General Catton, who is a dead ringer for your Buddy, but this didn't allow for it. We would be as devastated as you are if something happened to him and he was no longer in our lives. Big orange (ginger, marmalade) toms are the best cats ever. They are charming, calm and oh so loving. May all the memories of your adorable Buddy keep you content in those moments of grief.
Posted by: Jeena Huntzinger | 02/02/2018 at 09:18 PM
So sorry about Buddy. Our animals give us such unconditional love and it is so difficult when we lose them. My heart is sad for you, I know how it hurts to lose our fur babies.
Posted by: Denise F. | 02/02/2018 at 07:07 PM
Oh, I am so sorry to hear about your losing Buddy. Only this last week, I saw his photo on Instagram and commented on him. His coloring was similar to my sweet kitty, Teddy, who we lost last year. These sweeties just burrow into our lives and hearts and bring joy to every day. Thank you for sharing him with us, and big hugs to you on your sad loss.
Posted by: karenladd | 02/02/2018 at 06:46 PM
So sorry to hear about your beloved cat, Buddy. Our pets are loved members of the family and bring us so much joy. You gave him much love and joy, too, I’m sure? It was interesting tthat you said you feel there is that one perfect pet. We have an eleven year old German Shepherd and he is that perfect pet. I don’t know how much time he’ll have left, but I do thank God for the joy he has brought us. Thinking of you and sending you warm hugs, Wanda. Buddy will be right there with you in your memories and the love of him in your heart. Take good care, hugs.
Posted by: Maria | 02/02/2018 at 06:33 PM
It is SO hard to lose a fur baby. He was sure a beautiful little guy!! Hugs to you - so sorry for your heartbreak.
Posted by: Connie G | 02/02/2018 at 05:28 PM
Wanda, I am so very sorry for your loss. I can certainly understand the heartache, the shock, the emptiness, and the sadness you must be feeling. I went through this with my beloved Kittie who passed away last May. Like you, I don't have any kids so he was my baby boy (but I still have my baby girl, Bella). I knew it would be hard to say goodbye when that day came, but it was so much harder than I ever thought it would be. I truly believe that the Lord has a plan for all of us, including our furbabies. My heart, thoughts and prayers go to you during this difficult time. Big hugs to you!!!
Posted by: Brenda Lee | 02/02/2018 at 05:26 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss Wanda! Buddy sounds like a wonderful ol' fuzzy, kind soul. May he rest in peace. Warm hugs to you and your family today!
Posted by: Allison Cope | 02/02/2018 at 04:00 PM
Crying while reading this. I lost my Brittany almost 10 years ago and still miss him. We’ve had dogs and cats before and since, but, as you say, he touched my heart. Mark said we must have been his pets in another life 😢
We will lift a glass to Buddy and send prayers to you and Mark that you feel surrounded by love. ❤️
Posted by: Julie | 02/02/2018 at 03:45 PM
Oh Wanda!!! I just happened to be skimming through my emails and saw this. I am SO sorry! I know how much he meant to you and Mark. Pets steal our hearts and when they pass on, it almost feels unbearable. I am sorry he passed so quickly, but a wonderful fella like Buddy doesn't need to endure any suffering. My heart goes out to you both and of course prayers are being sent your way.
Posted by: Theresa | 02/02/2018 at 01:56 PM
Oh Wanda, I'm so sad to read about Buddy's passing. I always wanted an orange cat and Buddy was my orange cat online. I'm really going to miss all those cute pictures you took of him helping you in your craft room or just lounging around. I totally know how empty you feel right now and the quietness in your house. We have had corgi's all our life and when they cross the rainbow bridge it is so, so hard. Lot's of prayers are being sent your way for you, your husband, and sweet Buddy. Warm Hugs! Suzie
Posted by: Suzie | 02/02/2018 at 12:52 PM
Wanda, my heart just breaks for you. I’ve always looked forward to Buddies pictures on your blog and adored his sweet face. Our fur babies hold such a huge piece of our hearts. May you find comfort from memories of Buddy and his devotion and love to you and your husband. God bless you.
Posted by: Carolyn | 02/02/2018 at 12:45 PM
My heart is breaking for you, I completely understand how you are feeling and have the same connection with my kitty and the 2 I have lost. The pictures are SO beautiful. I hope the memories you made together will comfort you and warm your heart for the rest of your life, as I know we never really get over missing those little sweeties we loved so much who take a piece of us with them when they leave. May your little angel rest in peace.
Posted by: Christa Marie | 02/02/2018 at 12:23 PM
I am crying for you, Wanda. He was a beautiful boy and he had a wonderful life. Try and keep that in mind as you grieve. I have a dog that I love so so much and I can’t bear to think of the day when we have to say goodbye to him. Sending big hugs to you and your husband.
Posted by: Lisa R. | 02/02/2018 at 10:53 AM
Wanda, I am so sorry! Our fur kids are such a blessing in our lives. Prayers for y’all. Sending hugs. Julie
Posted by: Julie L | 02/02/2018 at 10:29 AM
Hard to lose a friend. My condolences.
Posted by: Rosa M. Vasquez | 02/02/2018 at 10:14 AM
I was in shock to read about the sudden loss of Buddy...my favorite posts of your blog were the ones that Buddy appeared in. I lost a cat that I was especially fond of who was only 7, apparently due to a sudden heart event. I hope that you and your husband will consider getting another cat, or two, when you feel the time is right. You can never replace Buddy, nor will there ever be any other cat just like him ( he was splendidly unique, after all), but I know from personal experience that there is another cat waiting to come into your life and love you as only he/she can . Big hugs ❤️
Posted by: Marti_L | 02/02/2018 at 09:12 AM
I am so sorry to hear about Buddy. We had a beloved Manx cat who had a sudden, severe illness, saddle thrombosis, several years ago that was pretty much untreatable. The veterinary staff came in to say good-bye in tears. I still miss Bob as he was such a special boy. Healing hugs to you and your husband:)
Posted by: Martha Berry | 02/02/2018 at 09:03 AM
that was one special cat. my sympathies on losing your best furry friend. He was beautiful.
Posted by: maureen sala | 02/02/2018 at 08:36 AM
I'm so sorry Buddy has passed. It hurts and it takes time to mourn, give yourself that time.
Posted by: Marie Siler | 02/02/2018 at 08:28 AM
Oh Wanda, my heart breaks with you. When I first saw Buddy, it was instant love for him and orange kitty’s. I got one as soon as I could. I hope that your memories of that sweet boy will help heal your broken heart. Sending you and your husband hugs. 🧡😻🧡😻🧡
Posted by: Christine Piechura | 02/02/2018 at 08:21 AM
What a beautiful tribute to your furry best friend-Buddy. I am so sorry for your loss, and will be thinking of you and wishing you peace.
Posted by: Janetb | 02/02/2018 at 06:58 AM
My hope for you and Mark is that the precious love and memories of Buddy that are locked in your hearts will help shorten the heartbreak you are going through.
Posted by: Beverly Gleeson | 02/02/2018 at 06:37 AM
Oh, how sad. It takes time to heal from losing our furry babies. My thoughts are with you.
Posted by: Joan Vancourt | 02/02/2018 at 06:35 AM
So sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose our furry friends. And I agree with you, there is always one very special one in each of our lives. We lost our special friend 3 years ago and my heart still aches for him. Praying that you will be comforted by memories of your sweet Buddy.
Posted by: Evelyn | 02/02/2018 at 06:27 AM
Praying for you,Wanda. Losing a pet is so heartbreaking. May God comfort you in your sorrow and surround you with His love.
Posted by: Cindy | 02/02/2018 at 05:37 AM
Wanda - So very sorry for the loss of your precious one. As a lifelong cat person myself, I know the heartache of losing one who's been part of your family and your heart. Hoping your special memories will sustain you. Hugs, Tiiu
Posted by: Tiiu | 02/02/2018 at 05:31 AM
So sorry about the loss of Buddy. Big hugs.
Posted by: Stacey Kowbel | 02/02/2018 at 05:29 AM
Wanda, so sorry for your loss, so hard to lose a beloved pet, and you will definitely have Buddy by your side in heaven. Take care.
Posted by: Tracy Gentry | 02/02/2018 at 05:17 AM
Oh my, I am SO very sorry to hear of the loss of your Buddy. What a special and loving tribute to a beautiful cat. I wish you peace and comfort in the wonderful photos you have of him. He will always be with you in your heart. Gentle hugs.
Posted by: Jeanne | 02/02/2018 at 04:30 AM
Oh Wanda I am so truly sorry for your loss. He was such an adorable cat. I feel your pain.We had to put to sleep our nineteen year old last June and I was devastated. I told my family no more. I just couldn't go through the loss again.However this past November we adopted a stray from a rescue shelter and I couldn't be happier!Our home is filled again with those mischievous moments,the sometimes chaos,but most of all the love and companionship that she gives me every day.I pray for your healing.
Posted by: Debbie | 02/02/2018 at 04:28 AM
Oh Wanda, tears are rolling down my face as I type this. I an truly, truly sorry to hear your sad news about Buddy, he sure was a beautiful boy.
I'll say a little prayer for you all and ask Oskar, Misty, Kitty and Gizmo to look out for him over Rainbow Bridge.
Our pets are only lent to us for such a short time, then we have to let them go after they've shown us what they were sent to us for, I really believe that.
Run free little one, til we meet one day... with love
Posted by: Nikki Brown | 02/02/2018 at 03:59 AM
I'm so so sorry, Wanda. Buddy was a beautiful kitty. Our furbabies leave such an impression on our hearts.
Posted by: Teresa Thornborough | 02/02/2018 at 03:55 AM
Oh Wanda!
my heart goes out to you and Mark ..I am crying with you...
I know your loss.....and know exactly what you write...feel what you write..
SO wished I could give you a Hug in real and a shoulder to cry on...
sending my love and hugs,
Holly.
Posted by: Holly Saveur | 02/02/2018 at 03:33 AM
Wanda, thinking of you...so sorry about Buddy.
Posted by: ~amy~ | 02/02/2018 at 03:01 AM
Awww, Wanda - my heart goes out to you in your time of great loss. As a cat lover - an animal lover actually - and having had the pleasure of the company of pets all my life, I know how heartbroken you feel right now. The words most comforting to me during the difficult time of losing my furry friends was that I should be happy to have had them in my life, with all their unconditional love (and in the case of cats, "cat-itude"!). I gave them the best life ever (as I'm sure you have done the same for Buddy), and in turn, I got to enjoy their constant company and love. Buddy couldn't have chosen a better "Human Servant" as YOU :-)
Yes, indeed, "Cheers to Buddy", and hugs to you.
Posted by: Susi Kelly | 02/02/2018 at 02:55 AM