Saying Goodbye

A couple of weeks ago we had to unexpectedly say goodbye to our youngest kitty, Pumpkin. We adopted him for years ago from our local SPCA shelter. At the time, the estimated he was about a year old. Playful, quiet and sweet, he fit into our family easily and was a wonderful companion to our older kitty. 

Over the years, my daughters grew so close to him and he LOVED them. He spent most of his days perched at his favorite window, looking for birds and enjoying the sun. The only thing that interrupted that was visits with his two favorite people, it made my heart melt.

We noticed Pumpkin wasn't eating much, and started to observe his behavior. While he was still drinking, he was definitely more lethargic and he spent time in his favorite window spot. I had recently switched his food so I thought that was the problem and he was simply a finicky eater. After calling the vet, they encouraged me to try to get him to eat and we tried everything: yogurt, tuna and nothing work. When we brought him to the vet, they ran tests and confirmed he had massive kidney failure. They said it was something they see often in older cats, and suggested that he was closer to 14 years old and not 5 years old, as we had thought. They said that it was hard for the SPCA or other rescue organizations to estimate a cats age. 

The vet was extremely kind and patient but confidently told us that this was a cut and dry case, that there was nothing we could've done to prevent it, and that the most humane thing to do would be to put him to sleep. So my husband stayed with him and called us to give the news. The girls were heartbroken and in disbelief. Even though we explained the situation, they wanted their kitty back and spent the next days reminiscing and providing comfort to their older kitty. 

My friend over at Coliwog Designs made these beautiful remembrance bracelets for the girls. Such a special, heartfelt way to remember their dear pet, they haven't taken them off since receiving them. The designer and shop owner, Alison suggested this gift, something I had never really thought about before. What a nice way for a child to keep a dear pet close to their heart.

Coliwog Designs features hand stamped, one of a kind jewelry. Simple and beautiful, these items make a wonderful gift. They offer personalization and will work with you to create a one of a kind piece. I think these would make the PERFECT back to school gift for a college bound loved one - or any student off on their next adventure! Great for Moms and Moms-to-Be, birthday gifts and beyond! Check out Coliwog Design's on etsy, Coliwog Design's blog here, follow on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to shop and "be in the know" 

"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky but rather openings where our loved ones shine down their light and love"  

Goodbye Pumpkin, you will forever be in our hearts!