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| From last Christmas |
 |
| Taken a few years back. |
We put his body on the bed and brought the other cats in to say good-bye. Ivy in particular took up a position on the bed next to Joey. Yoko has been sitting with him these last few days snuggled close at all times. He is buried in the woods on our land beside the cat house with a marker that says "Your heart is pure, Your soul is free."
Today, I say good-bye, God-speed.
I thank you for your love.
I thank you for choosing me.
I thank you for the joy I have experienced through you.
I thank you for the depth of your old soul as I looked in your eyes.
I thank you for your funny belly that swayed from side to side when you walked.
I thank you for the pleasure of watching you hop sideways when you were happy.
I thank you for your rumbley, growl like purr which you shared with me even your last night on earth.
I thank you for your compassion - welcoming without pause, any new cat I took in.
I thank you for all your sweet quirky traits that I have come to love.
I thank you for your loyalty - for always forgiving any squabbles and loving the other cats anyway.
I thank you for your companionship.
I thank you for your endlessly generous spirit.
I thank you for sharing your life with me.
I thank you for trusting me.
I thank you for the lessons learned by virtue of our having been in each other's lives.
I thank you for the knowing that even though I am now saying good-bye and letting you go, in this paradox of life, that having let you go, you will nevertheless be with me always.
I love you. Go in peace Joey, my love.
Adapted from Saying Good-bye by Elizabeth Severino
Thank you all for your emotional support, donations and kind words during his brief illness. You have helped more than you will ever know. I will take a break for blogging for a bit but will be back when my heart is lighter.
Oh, Cheri, my heart caught in my throat when I saw the post come up. I'm so sorry. I wish I had a few words of comfort, but you know there are none.
ReplyDeleteI'm sending you hugs and universal Light, wishing you peace and healing, wishing precious Joey godspeed.
Nicki and Derry are sending soft purrs and gentle headbutts.
-Kim
We are very sorry to hear about Joey. We will purr.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry! (((hugs)))
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sorry that you lost your sweet friend. It sounds like you did everything to make his crossing to the Bridge as gentle as possible. Our condolences.
ReplyDeleteThe Poupounette Gang
So very very sorry. Thank you for loving Joey so much. We know how much you will miss him, even though he will always be in your heart.
ReplyDeleteLove Milo and Alfie and our mom Jan xxx
It is always hard to lose the animals we love. Take comfort in him being released from any discomfort he may have been having. Run free, sweet Joey.
ReplyDeleteWe are all sad to hear about sweet Joey and we are sending you so many purrs.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry Joey's time has come. Your fellow bloggers understand you taking time to mourn. {{Hugs}}, purrs and pawtaps.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to read this Cheri, tears are dripping down as I type. When you have had such a wonderful friend for so many years it is heart wrenching to say goodbye.
ReplyDeleteTake comfort in the knowledge he knew he was loved so much but knew it was time for him to go to the Bridge and visit with old friends.
Luv Hannah, Lucy and Sue xx xx xx
Sending you lots of purrs to help your hearts heal.
ReplyDeleteHeadbutts and purrs from all of us at the Lounge. Godspeed Joey.
ReplyDeletexxoo
We're so sorry that Joey has gone to the Bridge. We know how much you loved him and will miss him. Mom smiled a sad smile when she read the belly comment - Tamir's belly did that too. We hope Tamir and Joey will be friends at the Bridge.
ReplyDeleteThe Florida Furkids and Mom Sharon
I'm so sorry to hear Joey has passed. I just recently lost my Cali to kidney failure so I am very much aware of the feeling of loss and sadness you must be experiencing today. My heart goes out to you. God speed, Joey. Hugs, Deb
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sorry to hear that Joey has gone to the Bridge. We send you comforting purrs, headbutts and hugs.
ReplyDeleteRIP, sweet Joey...you will be missed.
Wally, Ernie, Zoey and mom Sue
My sister and I are so very sorry to hear that sweet dear Joey had to leave. Our whiskers are so weepy wet. We send you our best purrs, hugs and love. Run free sweet Joey, you touched our hearts.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear about your Joey. Hugs and purrs to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteLove, Mama and Scout
Oh Cheri and Don, we are all so very sorry. He sure had good life with all of you. And he sure knew how much you loved him. You sure are in our thoughts and prayers. Take care.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sad that Joey has crossed over. But he is free and happy and healthy now, and running through the grass with the others who have crossed over. Many hugs and purrs and purrayers are being sent to you.
ReplyDeleteLuf, Us and Maw
I´m so very sorry!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteMe and the G's are all so sad you've lost your sweet Joey. Prayers, purrs and hugs during this sad time.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sad to hear about Joey's passing. Sending our thoughts and purrs.
ReplyDeleteThe description of his last moments was very beautiful and moving - the love he received and the way the other cats got a chance to say good-bye, too.
I've come to pay my respects to Joey. Although I hardly knew ye, ye have a place in my heart. *bowx head*
ReplyDeleteI'm so very sorry for your loss and send you healing purrs and purrayers. It's so hard when our beautiful fur babies leave us. But you know, it's so wonderful that he could cross over the bridge surrounded by those who love him, and in the peace and quiet of his own loving home. I know he felt that love and I'm sure it comforted him. If only every kitty could be so lucky.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with you during this sad time.
We are so sorry for the passing of Joey!! He will be missed by us all!
ReplyDeleteLots of love & hugs to you all.
Your TX furiends and Chandra
We are so sorry for the passing of Joey! He will be missed by all of us!! Lots of purrs and prayers to the family!
ReplyDelete((((((((HUGSSSSSSSSSSS))))))!
Your TX furiends,
Safe Journey Joey! We know you will be well met across the Bridge.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry for your loss and sending gentle purrs. We hope happy memories will help you heal.
We are so sad to heard about Joey. Run free, happy and healthy. We are sending hugs and purrs your way.
ReplyDeleteOh Cheri, We are so sorry that Joey has gone to the Bridge. Thank you for loving him so much, and so well. He was so fortunate (and smart) to have chosen you as his family.
ReplyDeleteHugs, purrs and much love to you all.
We send purrs and prayers to you, Cheri ... to all. May sweet Joey always be a peace now.
ReplyDeleteCheri, we were so sorry to hear about Joey! We know he's OK now, but we also know that you'll miss him very much. Hope you are OK.
ReplyDeleteLove and purrs from Katie and the Mishkat cats.
Beautiful words. We are so sorry to hear about Joey and are purring in the thought that he is running free. Peace be with you. Purrs...from the crew at Colehauscats.com
ReplyDeleteWe are pretty sure that Caesar and Prinnie were there at the bridge to welcome him to safety and sunshine.
ReplyDeleteHe was such a handsome and faithful mancat.
Hugs and nose taps
So glad that you were with him
We were sad to hear that Joey has gone over the Bridge! Our Purrs of Comfort to you...
ReplyDeleteI am so sad and yet so grateful that you and Joey had each other. And you did as promised and were there with him as he passed from this life to his next. Run free, eat well, sleep in the sun Joey. paw hugs, Savannah and Mom
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear about Joey, but I'm glad to hear that he was surrounded by his family when he crossed to the Bridge. I'm sending purrs your way.
ReplyDeleteWe offer our sincerest sympathies on the loss of your dear Joey.
ReplyDeleteHugs & Prayers,
Pam & Oskar
Ohhhh. =(
ReplyDeleteWe're sending purrs and prayers for your broken hearts. So heartbreaking. We're glad all Joey's loved ones were with him though. He knew you all loved him.
Grace & Company
Ohhhh. =(
ReplyDeleteWe're sending purrs and prayers for your broken hearts. So heartbreaking. We're glad all Joey's loved ones were with him though. He knew you all loved him.
Grace & Company
What a wonderful tribute to your lovely kitty. My heart hurts for you, I know so well the pain you are feeling! With tears.......
ReplyDeleteToni (Mom to The Big Piney Woods Cats, Mittens, Mistrie, Precious and Miracle)
We are sorry to hear of your sadness, but we know how much Joey is loved. the Momma is sending Reiki love and light to you, your husband and the rest of the gang to help ease your hearts.
ReplyDeleteHarry, Dexter and Tipp
I am so sad and sorry to hear about Joey. Purrs to you and all the kitties.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry that handsome Joey has left for The Bridge. He couldn't have wished for a more loving and caring home, nor for a more peaceful start to his journey. He was a very sweet fellow and we know you must be feeling so sad now, so we send you much love and many rumbly purrs
ReplyDeleteGerry, Mungo & The Ape xx
We are so sorry to read about Joey...what a handsome lad and we send you many hugs for giving him a loving and safe home for all these years.
ReplyDeleteRun free Joey and may you find lots of butterflies to chase.
Hugs Madi and Mom
I am so sorry for the loss of sweet Joey and I send purrs and love. You were with him when he left on his final journey and he left surrounded with love.. Hugs GJ x
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry!!! I know Joey loved you so very much and would not have left if it wasn't absolutely his time to go. (((hugs))
ReplyDeleteOh dear;! I am so very sorry for your loss. Losing one of our beloved animals is like losing a child - they are a well loved, integral member of our family. Please find some peace in knowing you gave him a wonderful life full of love, shelter, safety and I'm sure he loved you because of it. Hugs. Mary and Mrio
ReplyDeleteWe came as Ann let us know. We say sorry for your sad loss. We all who own pets know how hard it can be. We feel for you.
ReplyDeleteTake Care Molly
Cheri, We are so very sorry for your loss. Your tribute to Joey was lovely, we are sure he knew he was loved. Comforting purrs and light.
ReplyDeleteJoey dearest love, you were loved so much and you gave your family your love in return.
ReplyDeleteBe at peace darling and we will see you again by and by.
I am so sorry for the loss of your dear Joey. I know, though, that you gave him the best life, and the best death any cat could want. To be surrounded by such love during your passing is a real gift indeed. I'm sure you made his journey to the Bridge much easier.
ReplyDeleteThe love remains and always will.
We heard about the passing of Joey from Brian and just wanted to come and share condolences with you all. Your tribute was so poignant and his memory will always be with you xox
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sorry for your loss. So happy to read though that you were all with him. The way in which you are honoring Joey is beautiful.
ReplyDelete(((purrs and prayers)))
Glogirly & Katie
We're so sorry to hear that Joey has gone to the Bridge.
ReplyDeleteSending purrs to all of you,
Charlemagne, Tamar and Mal
Me and my mom-person are very sorry to hear about Joey :(
ReplyDeleteSending lot of (((purrs))) and comfort huggies
We are surrounding you with our hugs at this difficult time. Run free Joey. You will be missed...
ReplyDeletehugs, Max, Bugsy, Knuckles and HH
We are surrounding you with our hugs at this difficult time. Run free Joey. You will be missed...
ReplyDeletehugs, Max, Bugsy, Knuckles and HH
We were so sorry to get the message that sweet Joey has gone to The Bridge. We know he loved you as much as you loved him. He will be missed. Your goodbye post is just so sweet and loving. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs and nose kisses
ReplyDeleteI am so so sorry to hear that Joey has gone to the bridge. My heart is heavy and the mom is typing through the tears. Keep him close to you in your heart and thoughts. Rest well sweet friend.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear that Joey has gone to the Bridge. We send you purrs, love and hugs.
ReplyDeleteJoey may no longer be with you, but he will always, always feel your love around him and pray you will go on with a life you shared.
ReplyDeleteHugs and prayers,
Julie, Tom, Tinker, Mitty & Anasasia
I am so very sorry for your loss. I'm glad you were with him, but I'm sorry he had to go. Hugs and purrs
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for the loss of your beautiful Joey. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
ReplyDeleteSue B
We are so very sorry to hear about Joey. Sending you lots of hugs and purrs.
ReplyDeleteDeb and Rudy
I'm so sorry for your loss. Fly free sweet Joey.
ReplyDeleteCondolences on the loss of your beautiful Joey cat. He looked like a great kitty and I am sorry I didn't get to know him.
ReplyDeleteBlessings on all the kitties in your family,
Zkhat Tortie
So sorry to hear about Joey. Gentle headbuts and purrs from Kizzie.
ReplyDeleteOh no, Cheri, I am so sorry to hear this terrible, sad news...Sincere condolances over the tremendous loss of your precious Joey...I'm happy he had such a wonderful home with your family, but also know the pain you are feeling over his passing...May the love of God surround you during this time of sorrow...Big hugs...J, Calle, Halle, Sukki
ReplyDeleteBeautiful poem for Joey. He was a very lucky boy to have found a home in your loving arms.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry, Cheri. I know you did everything possible for him. No cat could be more loved than he was.
I hope that Squashies was there to greet you at the bridge, sweet boy. She knows how much I love your mommy, and how much your mommy helped when she was so sick; surely you and she have snuggled up in a cuddle puddle full of loud purrs.
God's Speed, Joey.
We're so sorry to read about Joey. Thank you for looking after him so well and loving him,
ReplyDeleteSoft purrs and hugs,
Tasha, Buddy & Karen (Mum)
It is hard to find adequate words at a time like this. Joey had such a wonderful home with you. He obviously loved you very much and was grateful to you for all you gave him.
ReplyDeleteWe send you our most heartfelt sympathy.
Oh no. :-( We are so so sorry to read about sweet angel Joey. Poor poor dearest Joey. We are so so sorry.
ReplyDeletePlease take care
x
We are so terribly sorry...we are shocked and deeply saddened. You all are in our thoughts and prayers ((((hugs))))
ReplyDeleteWe are so dreadfully sorry to hear that your precious Joey has gone on his journey to the heavens...my beautiful memories of him surround you and all those who loved him.
ReplyDeleteSoft hugs from the cozy cottage
So very sorry for your loss. No more pain for sweet Joey, just freedom and joy at the bridge waiting for you.
ReplyDeleteWith great sympathy,
Maggie
We're so sorry to hear about Joey. Many gentle purrs to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteCheri, I'm so sorry about dear Joey. I hope you find comfort in the fact that you and your husband loved him so and he of course knew that.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Vicki (Lucy, Simba & Annie)
(((hugs))) I am so sorry for your loss. Joey was a beautiful, beautiful boy!
ReplyDeleteOh Cheri, we are so very very sorry to hear abtou Joey. We'd read about his downturn in last week's post and were so hoping he'd rebound.
ReplyDeleteWe're sending purrs of comfort to you as you grieve for yoru beautiful baby boy.
you're in our hearts and our thoguhts....
We are so sorry to hear Joey has left for the Bridge. We send you all, comforting purrs as we know you will miss your sweet boy.
ReplyDeletePurrs Tillie and Georgia,
Tiger,Treasure,JJ and Julie
and mom Nancy
Your post is so beautiful. I am sorry to hear about Joey's passing but know from your words that he was so very loved and that he loved you all so much, too. I am sending kitty hugs and purrs your way.
ReplyDeleteEven though Joey had a long life, it was way too brief and there is never enough time. I still here with tears and am so sorry for your loss, even knowing how blessed Joeyvwas to be surrounded by such love and compassion. Such beautiful feeling flowed from your words. Joey loved and was loved in return. Farewell sweet Joey until we meet again.
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sorry to hear the news about sweet Joey. Guess there was an important job at Rainbow Bridge that only he was qualified for. His memory will always remain safe within your heart and the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry :( Godspeed, little Joey. PUrrs,
ReplyDeletePip, Smidgen, Minnie, Holie
So sorry for your loss of sweet Joey. It was a lovely post and we are glad that he could have a gentle passing at home, surrounded by love.
ReplyDeleteHugs
Julie and Poppy Q
We also send comforting vibes and purrayers for your loss.
ReplyDeleteHey it's Jet here.
ReplyDeleteWe're so sorry to meet you under such sad conditions. Our friend, Brian thought we might help if we share a fluffy shoulder or two. Your poem brought tears to Mom's eyes. We cannot offer any words to match the beauty of your poetic expression.
We hope the memories in your heart pocket will bring you some comfort as time passes.
Sending Jetty kisses and JJ hugs of white light.
Love and Prayers!
ReplyDelete2dogs5catscrew@att.net
Oh Cheri we are so sorry. We're sending you our best purrs.
ReplyDeleteWe are so very, very sorry to hear of your special boy Joey's passing. We are sending you our gentlest purrs and thoughts of love. Your post and tribute and poem for Joey is very beautiful, you loved him so well.
ReplyDeleteBe Well Sweet Joey
We have come to say goodbye to Joey. We think he had a wonderful home with you and an excellent life and we like to think of him now playing with our departed Guardian cat Diamond at the Rainbow Bridge.
ReplyDeleteDawn (Shubunkin) for The Pond Fish
We are so sorry to hear about Joey. We're sending your comforting purrs.
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry for your loss. Rest in Peace Joey.
ReplyDeletexoxo Chloe and LadyBug of bichonpawz
May the memories of love outweigh the grief of loss.
ReplyDeletePurrs & prayers,
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Kitty Horde & their Feeders
What an amazingly beautiful tribute to Joey!
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to read the news. We send our purrs and hugs of comfort.
Joey is running free now but we know Joey will always be in your heart.
Marg sent me over.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your loss. Our babies become part of our family and it's so hard to let them go.
Big healing hugs. :)
Blessings to you and all your family during your time of transition.
ReplyDeleteMay you find the peace within you...
~LisaCo9T
Joey and you were fortunate to share your lives together and may that comfort you as you carry on without him...We are purring for your heart to heal, as he will be there in your heart forever...
ReplyDeleteWe are sending purrs and love to support to our furends. That was wonderfur that the furs had a chance to say their goodbyes. Many people do not realize that cats need to say a few words and say goodbye just as the two legged do.
ReplyDeleteTimmy Tomcat and Family
My heart hurts for you as you grieve. Joey sure was a wonderful friend, he will surely be missed. Blessings to you all. Purrs and purrs.
ReplyDeleteOh Cheri I am so sorry for your loss. Purrs and hugs to you and yours during this very difficult time friend.
ReplyDeleteRest in peace. {{{Joey}}}
ReplyDeleteWe're so sorry for your loss. Codspeed, sweet one. We'll meet you at the Rainbow Bridge.
ReplyDeleteCrikey and Mom Angela
Purrs to you on the loss of Joey.
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry about Joey. I know that you will miss him bunches. I know that he is now running and playing with all the other cats who have gone before.
ReplyDeleteWe are so very sorry to hear about Joey leaving for the Rainbow Bridge. Please know you gave him the most wonderful life any cat could hope for. You are in our thoughts and purrayers during this very sad time.
ReplyDelete(((hugs)))
Maggie May, The Creek Cats and Mom
We are so sorry to hear about Joey! Purrs and headbutts from us, and hugs from our human.
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry for your loss. We know how devastating this is. Surrounding you with soft gentle purrs.
ReplyDeleteSending you all our love and good thoughts on your loss. Our furry four legged friends stay in our hearts forever.
ReplyDeleteHugs
xo Catherine and Banjo
Oh Dear!
ReplyDeleteMe is so sorry to hears about Joey. We know you were brought together for a reason and we are sure Joey will be waiting for you!
Kisses Nellie, Kozmo, the hairy slobbery sisters, Bob and Cinnamon and Mommy
Daddy Kiril, Elvira Mistress of Felinity, and I, Mr. Nikita, send our words of comfort and condolence, purrs and purrayers, your way.
ReplyDeleteMeowsings of an Opinionated Pussycat
http://www.opinionatedpussycat.com
...i don't know what to say as so many others have already said so much. so i'll just say
ReplyDelete*HUGS* to you and all of your family during this difficult time. <3
I am new to your blog, but my heart is breakking for you. I know the pain of losing your wonderful companion and I wish you peace.
ReplyDeleteI am so so sorry !!!
ReplyDeleteI've been so busy in my crazy world that I hadn't checked blogs for a while.
Thinking of you and your family at this time.
XO,
JC and The Purr and Fur Gang
I am so sorry for your loss. Joey was blessed to have you in his life to love and care for him.
ReplyDeleteRun free sweet Joey. And look after your mom from above.
A big hug for you Cheri, I am so sorry for your loss. Mum's eyes are wet too. He looked like such a nice kitty, I'm so glad he had a nice home with you.
ReplyDeleteWe were so very sorry to read about Joey having to leave for the Bridge.
ReplyDeletePurrs and ::hugs::
~ The Bunch and Mom Bobbie
We dropped by from Nicki and Derry. We are sending are paws and prayers to your family that their hearts may heal this Christmas.
ReplyDeleteHaopee
We are still thinking of you and sending up prayers for you. We want to thank you too for your thoughtful and kind comment when our sweet Angel Passed to The Rainbow Bridge. It was very sweet of you to think of us during your sad time. Love, hugs and nose kisses
ReplyDeletePS we love your header so much that we are featuring you on our page http://www.facebook.com/KatzTales on Saturday. Meow!
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear your baby has crossed the bridge. We will be keeping you in our prayers as you go through this sad time :'(
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with you...
ReplyDeletewe are very sorry.
ReplyDeletepawhugs,
emma and buster