Rest in Peace

I'm sure you could guess that it had to be something big for me to find time to blog, and something big it was. Last night our family pet of 14 years died due to complications of old age. Belle was the sweetest, most beautiful cat, and everyone who ever met her agree that cats don't come better than her (I'd argue that a better pet of any sort there never was).

She has been declining in health rapidly for the last few months, and hasn't been able to eat for a few weeks. She was literally a fragment of the cat she used to be. Nathan held her as her slight body struggled with its last few movements and breaths. She is finally resting peacefully.

After we said our good-byes, Nathan fashioned her a spectacular coffin from a box and duct tape (okay, it may not win any awards, but I can guarantee it's the best that any pet of ours can ever hope for). I wrote a few words on the box, which we'll bury tonight. And as an extra tribute, Isaac wrote a special letter to Belle, which we found next to her this morning. I'd like to share it with everyone:

Dear Belle, I am sorry for the times I was mean . Please forgive me. I am sorry that you died, and I know you are old, but what made you die was you got really really sick and then you died. I am very very sorry that you died. And may you rest in peace in Heaven and you will be good there. Love, Isaac

I think we all echo the sentiments: You'll be good in Heaven, Belle.