Saying Goodbye to Sugar

Just before Thanksgiving I said goodbye to Sugar.  She is, as my friend would say, my furry feline faux baby.  I suppose I should say "was".  We kept each other company for over thirteen years.

I sent an email the day she left me that I think still feels right:

Dear all,

Today I said goodbye to Sugar after 12 wonderful years, and one very sad year. She died peacefully this morning thanks to euthanasia after battling lymphoma that had metastasized to her lungs among other locations.
I am collecting remembrances from those that knew and loved her if you have any you would care to share with me. While I am inconsolable I believe this would be a comfort to me.
Thank you to all of you that shared in her life and in turn enriched mine. The picture I've attached is how I will remember her, happily purring while dozing, fooling you into thinking she might like a belly rub.

In sorrow,
Holly

I didn't receive many stories but those I did warmed my heart.

I took a short video, a day or so before the end, of me giving her a nice pet. For the most part she accepts my affection calmly but nothing like how it used to be.  Then there is a moment where she leans in and closes her eyes.  It makes me catch my breath every time I watch it.

I don't know that I've had to do anything so difficult before this.  Choosing when to end a life is a terrible burden.  I remain convinced that it was the right thing to do and I'm glad I could help in some way, even if it was so final.  I miss her so.