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Sunday, March 20, 2011

Oscar and the Rainbow Bridge...

I can't stop sobbing...I got a message from Jeff this morning that Oscar passed away during the night.

I can't stop crying. I have to drive 8 hours home. I wish I had been there, I should have been there..I've been gone too much.

I knew eventually his 9 lives would run out ---- but he was doing so much better...

He was the best cat, and will be sorely missed. And the sad part is, I know I'll never replace him. My life is too busy and crazy and GONE..and you have to BE THERE for pets. And I have missed so much of the past 2 years of his life...because I was gone. I know I'm not thinking rationally right now....

148 comments:

  1. I'm so very sorry Bonnie - I have 3 kitties and love them so much. Please don't beat yourself up over this xxx

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  2. Oh oh oh, I am just so sorry to hear about Oscar. He loved and was loved ... it's what we all hope for.

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  3. Oh Bonnie, I'm so sorry to hear about Oscar. Andrea is right...don't beat yourself up. Oscar knew he was loved. Hold all of your special memories of him close. It's so hard to loose pets...we love our little furbabies so. ((((hugs)))) Trish

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  4. Oscar knows how much he was loved and how lucky was he to go in his sleep. There is nothing you could have done if you were there. Focus on the wonderful memories.

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  5. I am so sorry about your kitty. I love all of mine, and don't want to even think about something happening to one of them. Take care, and be careful on your drive home.

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  6. All my sympathy Bonnie - I nearly lost my kitty last month, so I know what it feels like. Drive carefully or get someone else to drive - YOU are precious to US!

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  7. I'm so sorry to hear this Bonnie, but please don't be too hard on yourself - it was his time to go. You were lucky to have each other and he had a good home and all a cat could ask for.
    Now all there is left to do is cry yourself out, drive home safely and sleep a lot when you're back. Quilting has always been good therapy and will help you through this. As well as the sympathy of all the quilters who love you. {{{big big hug}}}

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  8. I am so sorry, Bonnie. I am CRYING TOO - I have loved the pictures of Oscar on your blog. He LOVED YOU and your quilts. Losing one of our family is tough for sure. I will be praying for your well-being and safe travels.

    Sending a big hug,
    sao in Midlothian, VA

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  9. oh Bonnie, I am so sorry. I can't even imagine trying to drive after that kind of news. my heart breaks.

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  10. So sorry to hear Oscar is no longer with you. One day when your life changes and you have more time at home you can get another kitty, and tell it all about Oscar! He has left paw prints that will always remain in your heart.

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  11. Be kind to yourself - it's true Oscar can never be replaced, but there will be another cat that will steal your heart and bring you joy. We treasure our pets because we know that when they leave us they will take a bit of our heart. Remember instead that we gave them all the love we could during their time with us.

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  12. My heart aches for you. I know that loss oh so well. HUGS!

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  13. Dear Bonnie,

    I'm so sorry to hear of Oscar's passing! I've lost pets and I still miss them. No, you can't ever replace a pet but there are other pets "out there" who will be special because of who they are.

    Oscar was loved and happy... and has gone on to a better place where he will wait for you.

    Please be kind to yourself... and drive safely. I'll be thinking about you and praying for you as you drive and in the days ahead.

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  14. I'm so sorry Bonnie. It is so hard to lose a pet.

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  15. I'm so sorry Bonnie about your loss of Oscar. I cried as I read your post. I have a rescue kitty who is 18 and just holding on. I know someday that I will come home and he will have gone to the rainbow bridge. I also lost a kitty when I was at a quilting retreat 5 hours away from home. It is so hard to lose our furry kids, The pain does lessen in time but you never forget. ((((hug))))

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  16. Oh, Bonnie, I'm so sorry to hear about Oscar. It's so hard to lose our pets. Don't beat yourself up about not being home - he knew he was loved and he had a great home and a wonderful life. A life lived with a quilter is the perfect life for a cat!

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  17. Oh Bonnie, I am so so sorry for your loss. Our pets become part of our family and give such unconditional love to us. I know from your post that you truly loved your kitty and I believe our pets know when they are loved. Keep the good memories and don't feel guilty that your business took you on trips. Remember that your kitty had a good home and was well cared for and loved, which is all any of us can do for our pets.

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  18. I am so sorry, I know how much comfort Oscar gave you. You have lots of memories but we know he'll be missed.

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  19. Our sweet Misty (Sheltie) died almost ten years ago and I still cry a tear when I think of what a good pet she was for us. I'm hoping we'll see her in heaven...where she will be free of the arthritis and "old age". Jumping through high grass with a huge smile on her face!

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  20. I am so sorry Oscar has gone over the Rainbow Bridge - I believe the depth of our pain is as great as the depth of our love. Our furry little friends keep us grounded and teach us how to love unconditionally. I am sobbing with you as I know this is ahead of me. Judy C

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  21. dear Bonnie, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Oscar will always be in your memories, don't beat yourself. Please drive carefully and stop, when you need a break - we are in worry about you!
    friendship hugs from Brigitte

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  22. Oh, Bonnie. I am so sorry to hear this. Bless your heart. Pets make out lives whole, and to lose one is like a person. Please take it easy on your way home, pull over if you need to. Oscar knew by all accounts I am sure, that he was loved. Cherish your memories. I will be thinking about you today, little good that will do to a breaking heart, but just know you are in my thoughts.

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  23. So sorry. My son lost his 13 year old cat this year. Sassy still leaves a very big hole in our heart and lives. Pets bring us so much joy and happiness and really are much like children to us.

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  24. Oh Bonnie.....I wish DH had waited until you arrived safely......now be careful. It is so painful to lose the pets we love, the family, the friends, watching natural disasters, sometimes it is all too much. Unplug for a while and let yourself grieve. Our hearts are with you.
    Welcome home to those who will love and comfort you.

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  25. Bonnie, I'm so sorry, Oscar was a great cat and I know he loved you and knew he was loved. Don't feel guilty about being gone, we never have enough time with our furry kids, even if we're home with them full time. Take care of yourself and treasure all the good memories.

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  26. So sorry, Bonnie! Sending big hugs to you!

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  27. So sorry!! Oscar will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.

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  28. I am so sorry, Bonnie. Sending you a hug today....

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  29. Hugs and prayers Bonnie... he'll never really be gone... he's left a paw print on your heart.

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  30. So, so sorry, Bonnie. It is so hard to lose your pets. Hopefully, the drive home will give you the alone time you need to cry and grieve over this very real loss. Hugs to you.

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  31. I understand your grief Bonnie. Our pets are our best friends and cats are super special. My prayers to you on a safe trip home. He will always be in your heart.

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  32. What could have been better than the years of lounging in your scraps?? You gave him a wonderful life. We're all with you for those long 8 hours. Be safe!

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  33. Bonnie, I'm so sorry. I lost my beloved Chloe almost a year and a half ago (she was my quilting companion) and I said the same thing, felt every emotion you are going through...plus had to pull together my daughtger's wedding 16 days later. God and time has a way of healing things but also provides opportunities you can never imagine. I swore never to adopt a pet again and two months after Chloe passed, a special cat named Fred (renamed to Jake) came into our lives. Cherish the memories you have and find a way to honor his life. I actually made a quilt in her honor using cat focus fabric and different textured materials and on the label, put actual pictures of her on it. The quilt stays right by or on my chair where I hand quilt. It's a way to honor her memory and still keep her close. Take care, know prayers are winging up on your behalf.

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  34. I'm so sorry Bonnie. Oscar new how much he was loved. You are in my thoughts.

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  35. So sorry to hear about Oscar.

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  36. I am so sorry Bonnie. I too know how that feels. Our fur-babies give us that unconditional love that is like no other. Oscar will always have his own special place in your heart!

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  37. Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss. I understand what joy a pet can bring to our lives and the heartbreak that comes when they die. Cherish the good times. Oscar knows you love him. ~rhanda

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  38. Bonnie, it is so hard when we lose our fur babies. I'm sure your Oscar knew he was very much loved. Sending you big (((((HUGS)))))

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  39. I am shedding a tear too! I am so sorry Bonnie, I do know how hard that is! We grow so attached to our precious animals, they are like children. I am sure if you had any idea time was that close you would have been there, so give yourself some peace. You have some wonderful pictures and many memories of when you were there so enjoy what you have in remembrance of a wonderful cat. Huggs and prayers going your way.

    Arlene

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  40. Dear Bonnie, Words seem so inadaquate at times like this, but very sorry for your heartache and your loss. Loosing a loved petchild is like loosing a member of our family. Always remember the fun times with Oscar and not that you were not there when he left. Hugs!! xo

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  41. I'm so sorry. We have lost many pets (dogs and cats). We've just taken in our 3rd stray, Uno ... he's something else. Oh you lead an exciting life traveling, teaching and more but sometimes home is best. Give yourself time to heal ... Oscar understood. I'm so sorry.

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  42. SO SORRY....He knew how much he was loved by all of the care you gave him !!!!! Don't beat yourself up you gave him the best and made his life better for a long time. It is so hard to lose a pet and best friend...

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  43. Dear Bonnie, Oscar knew that you loved him..please allow yourself time to grieve but remember the good times you spent with him. I do know what you are feeling - my cat of 16 years passed away last Saturday. I am still in shock, and no, we can't replace our loved ones. I'm so sorry for your loss. Gentle hugs, deb

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  44. So sad. Keep the good memories close.

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  45. Anonymous10:34 AM EDT

    My tears have been rolling since I read your post . My heart aches that you are physically so far away from your dear pet. Bonnie drive safe.... Oscar knew you were with him (he stole a spot in your heart years ago ...and will always be there . ((hugs)))
    Beth MacDonald

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  46. I'm very sad...really sad. I don't really know you or your sweet furry. But, I've loved and lost and my heart goes out to you...
    =(
    hugz,
    annie

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  47. I'm so sorry! That made me cry and I had to go hug my kitty, Tigger. He wasn't crazy about the idea. I hope you have lots of great pictures of Oscar lounging around silently communing with you while you were sewing.
    Pat in Washington

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  48. Bonnie - I'm so sorry for your loss.

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  49. Bonnie, I'm so sorry to hear about Oscar, he was a wonderful kitty. Please be careful driving home.

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  50. So sorry, Bonnie. It's hard to lose those furry little buddies.
    Hugs to you,
    Vicki

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  51. Bonnie, my heart goes out to you. Our furry children are also our companions. My dog is right beside me now as I type this on my laptop. They give us unconditional love and we can't help but love them in return. Blessings on you as you grieve Oscar's loss. I pray you are comforted by wonderful memories of times shared with your Oscar. (((((HUGS)))) Mavis

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  52. Anonymous10:59 AM EDT

    Words can not explain my sorrow for you. They are all your babies, regardless of fur, or skin. Thinking of you in Louisiana.....

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  53. I am sorry to hear about Oscar passing,He will be welcomed by my fabric loving Tigger..please don't beat yourself up.drive safely.Hugs to you,Amy

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  54. Love is love. I lost two of my kitties last year. It is a sad time. Try to have a good cry-out before you get in your car. You'll probably be surprised how quick trip home will be. Hope it helps to know that you have so many people thinking of you....

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  55. You have my condolences, Bonnie. I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet. Oscar will be in good company with the fellow quilter's pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge before him.

    {{{{ HUGS }}}}

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  56. Anonymous11:27 AM EDT

    Bonnie, I'm so sorry you lost your Oscar. Your message makes me love my Spikey even more. You gave Oscar many years of love and care, so don't beat yourself up. Hugs to you from West Virginia.

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  57. ((((big hugs to you)))

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  58. So sorry to hear of your loss. He was a beautiful cat and I'm sure he will be much missed. My heart goes out to you. It's never easy to lose a family member. We tend to blame ourselves but don't. He lived a good full life with lots of love.

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  59. hugs to you. I lost my cat last year and it is so sad. She was 16 and such a long part of my life. She saw me through many happy and sad times and I will never replace her either. Be sure to take time to grieve for your friend.

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  60. I am so sorry about your loss. Oscar was a beautiful cat and I know you will miss him.

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  61. Hugs to you, Bonnie, and to Jeff, and to Oscar who is your newest guardian angel.

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  62. So sorry Bonnie...maybe it will help to think that Buddy and Oscar are together again.
    Drive safely!

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  63. I am so sad for you. I had greatly enjoyed your pics of Oscar, as I lost both of my stitching felines too. No regrets, just love the memories.

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  64. *dislike* : (

    There are no words that will make it better. Wishing you the comfort of fond memories. Rest in peace, Oscar.

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  65. Bonnie - I'm so sorry about Oscar. People who have pets know that they are so much more than that. They are truly a family member. Someone once told me that they go to heaven and play until we get there and that's what I always picture when I think of our three dogs. They're up there having fun and waiting for us.

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  66. ((((((Bonnie))))))) So sorry to hear about Oscar. Our pets our just like our children. Hang in there my friend and cling to your memories.

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  67. Dear Bonnie I was deeply sorry to hear that Oscar has passed away. We become so attached to our animals because they are just our best friends and we can always talk to them. When I even contemplate loosing my Zeusie (Cat) I get teary eyed. Just remember all the good times and may he rest in peace. God Bless Sandra

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  68. Life brings tears, smiles and memories. The tears dry, the smile fades, but the memories will live on forever. So sorry for your loss. We all we be thinking about Oscar, he was on your blogs so many times. Drive safely, and keep your chin up.

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  69. I´m so sorry and feel with you, Bonnie!
    Two years ago we lost our two old kitten and I´m not ready with crying yet. In this time I sew a quilt for our daughter, who miss her cat very much.
    I want to send you a picture of this quilt per e-mail and hope it could give you a bit consolation.
    Greetings from Germany.

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  70. Bonnie when I saw the word rainbow bridge I knew that you lost a beloved pet two years ago I losted my Cat Useless only I had came home and Husband was setting up and he never set up late and I knew something was wrong. Take care.

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  71. No words, just a ((((((hug))))))
    Our Tuly, Puss, Mew, Specks and Dober will wait for him, we buried them in our garden. Each with his/her favorite bush on top. We name the bushes with the cat's name.
    A creature is only really gone when it's forgotten.
    Drive carefully, love Irene

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  72. Heartfelt good wishes to you for healing thoughts of the best times with Oscar when he was being himself -- seemingly full of character and such a lively and involved quilting assistant! My hope is your memories of Oscar will bring you comfort. ~~Lisa

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  73. Bonnie,
    I'm so sorry to hear of Oscar's passing. Don't beat yourself up for not being there, there's not always much you can do to prevent the inevitable. Kitties and dogs just don't live long enough. Who decided parrots live for 75 years and cats and dogs only 10 to 15? Something's not fair. Lois

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  74. Just a hug Bonnie. x

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  75. It's never easy to lose a good friend, but he will be waiting for you on the bridge, you know that! You need to remember the happy times and he will continue to be around you, you just have to be aware of it. My cat Rimshot, loved for almost 19 years and has been gone over 10 years now. I still miss her but I see her around the house from time to time. I have replaced her with 5 cats and there is one that I love as much as I did her. He is different but he is a great cat too. You may end up with another one too, it may not be in your hands if you need one. God Bless you and heal your sad heart!

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  76. Bonnie - I am so very sorry to hear about Oscar's passing. I know how much you loved him and will miss him. Praying you get safely home soon.
    Love Donna

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  77. My heartfelt sympathies go to you and your family on your loss. It is always heartbreaking to lose such a treasured member of your family as a pet becomes. Have a safe trip home.
    Lynne

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  78. So sorry Bonnie! I know Oscar was very special to you. Be safe.

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  79. Oh Bonnie, I am so sorry. Please know that there are hugs coming from all over quilt land. Mind included.

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  80. I'm so very sorry to hear about Oscar. Pets are definitely part of our families and their loss is heartbreaking. We all understand and share your grief. Be safe on your drive, take time to grieve and most important remember all the fun and love you both have shared.
    Big Hugs, Linda

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  81. My sympathy to you as a fellow pet owner, and griever. Oscar will be waiting for you on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, loving you as you are! Drive safely! Chris

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  82. So sorry, Bonnie. I know you'll miss him.

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  83. Oh, sweet Bonnie! I am so sorry. My heart is absolutely breaking for you. Please travel safely and know that Im sending you love. xoxoxo

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  84. I'm so sorry, Bonnie, to read that Oscar won't be greeting you when you get home. But I'm sure he's going to have a great time in Kitty Heaven.

    My heart goes out to you and your family.

    Get home safe.

    Jittina, the Netherlands

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  85. Oh Bonny, I'm so sorry to hear that Oscar passed away. It hurts soooo much to lose a pet - of course you can't stop sobbing now. Please drive home safely! Soft hugs from cat lover to cat lover, Frauke (Germany)

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  86. So sorry, it's horrible when a loved pet goes. I didn't get a cat again for years as I still remembered how much it hurt when my childhood cat Penny died. But now that I have a cat again (also called Oscar) I wish I had got him sooner as he adds so much to my life. Just remember all the joy that your Oscar bought you, and the joy he bought us too, when we saw him on your blog rolling in your fabric or sitting on your latest quilt. Remember your heart is breaking because you loved him and he loved you. Take care of yourself and drive carefully.

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  87. Oh such sad news. Don't beat yourself up. Drive carefully and just give your family a hug when you get home safe!!

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  88. Laura Amundson3:56 PM EDT

    Don't beat yourself up about not being there. You'd grieve for him no matter how much time you'd spent with him. He was lucky to have a good home and people who loved him. I still miss my soulmate cat, also an Oscar, 12 years after he passed on.

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  89. I'm so sorry. Wish I could jump in the car and drive you home so you wouldn't have to drive alone, but spending 8 hours in the car with a stranger may not bring you much comfort! It's so hard when we lose members of our 4-legged family. Just because you've been on the road a lot lately, doesn't mean you loved him any less! It's only natural to think 'if only', but know that he was a blessed kitty and I'll bet he knew how much he was loved. Here's hoping that, in time, the memories will bring you joy nad comfort. Safe travels and hugs.

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  90. Oscar was a beautiful cat, I think he knew he was loved. It is so hard to loose a furbaby. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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  91. Bonnie it is always hard to lose one of our pets whether we are there or not. Oscar knew he was loved,cared for and how lucky he was. We can never replace them but in time there are others who need our love and care. Drive home carefully and don't blame yourself.

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  92. Sorry to hear about Oscar! He looks very happy in your photos and his life must have been a good one. Family who loved him, took care of him, fed him and cleaned his litter box...and many piles of quilting scraps to play with! (Or possibly just sit upon when nobody's paying attention to him.)

    Especially take care driving home, and try to remember the best times you had with Oscar.

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  93. He'll return to your mind and heart at just the right times...my Popper does and it always brings me comfort. Hugs and prayers.

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  94. I'm so sad to hear about Oscar. It's so difficult to lose our pets. The consolation is that he was loved, and had a good home. Yes, you will miss him and crying is healiing. Take care of yourself, and know that even if you had been at home when this happened, there is nothing you could have done. Hugs sent your way.

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  95. So sorry to hear your news....a great photo of him...

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  96. I am so very sorry to hear about Oscar...you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

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  97. It is awful to lose a wonderful partner like Oscar. I don't know what else to say except that only happy memories will remain, and you'll smile when you think of him, instead of crying.

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  98. Anonymous5:54 PM EDT

    I'm so sorry. I'll love my Cinnie extra special for you tonight and remember Oscar!
    cshansen@comcast.net

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  99. Ohhh Bonnie, I'm so sorry for your loss. Oscar was a darling little man, and his memory will be with you forever. These dear pets tug at our heartstrings and it's so hard when it's their time to leave us. Sending big love and hugs your way.
    *hugs*
    Tazzie

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  100. Oh Bonnie, I'm so, so sorry! My heart breaks for you. We lost our little parakeet last year and I'm still not over it. You have to know that he had a wonderful life because of you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

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  101. So sorry for your loss.

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  102. Bonnie: I am so sorry for your loss. Oscar was one lucky guy to have found you. I can't say anything that hasn't been said beautifully already, but you're in my thoughts. All of us who share our homes with furry friends and studio assistants know exactly how you feel. Take care of yourself -

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  103. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Oscar was such a handsome boy. He was so lucky to have a good home with you and your family. Don't be so hard on yourself for not being home when he passed. He doesn't hold it against you, I guarantee it.

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  104. Anonymous6:59 PM EDT

    Sorry to hear that Bonnie. Hugs.
    Bev.

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  105. Anonymous7:00 PM EDT

    Oh Bonnie, I am so very sorry. And I do know how you feel, having been out of town when my Alabaster passed away. Oscar had such a wonderful personality, it showed in all the pictures you have shared. He knew he was loved, take heart in knowing that. Virtual hugs (((((Bonnie)))))

    Anita

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  106. Bonnie-I am so sorry for your loss. Oscar looked just like one of my beloved pets named Snowy. Perhaps they are together on the other side of the rainbow bridge. Our hearts ache for our lost pets. I lost Spiff a couple of years ago and sometimes I still think I can feel him pet my face with his paw.

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  107. Oh, Bonnie, I'm so sorry to learn about Oscar....I am so sad along with you. He was a beautiful boy, and so lucky to have you in his life! We all know you loved him tremendously, and in time, I hope his memories will come to give you peace. I'm sending you much love to get through this difficult time.

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  108. My "kitty kitty" passed away 1 year ago tomorrow. It made me cry to hear of Oscar and to remember the little stray that was with me for 1 1/2 years. So, I am sorry to hear of the passing. Cry all you want to but remember the fun times you had with Oscar. My prayers will be with you.

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  109. Oh Bonnie, this is horrible news! I know how much he meant to you. He is in heaven though running free! I can't wait to see him one day and give him some love! For now though you need to hang tight to his memories and may they help you get over his absence. You will love on him again I firmly believe this! I know he is proable playing with some of mine as we speak and that is awesome! Hang in there sweetie!

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  110. Anonymous7:49 PM EDT

    Oh, Bonnie... I was at the Fri & Sat workshops and enjoyed you so much. I am so sorry to hear about Oscar. So many of us know what it is like to lose a dear pet. You balance your life so well with all you accomplish. You amaze us! Please focus on that. Sending you good wishes and a jammie day Monday. xoxo Kathi

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  111. Diane Offerman7:50 PM EDT

    Bonnie, so sorry to hear Oscar passed away. He was a beautiful cat and very loved. Our fur babies become such a part of us. I feel your pain and heartache. You gave him a good life. He provided you with many happy memories.

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  112. Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss.. you blog post just broke my heart. Just remember the wonderful times you had with Oscar. He knew how much you loved him.. You can see it in all your photos what a happy cat he was. Cathy in TN

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  113. So sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose them.

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  114. Take this from one who has buried many dear pets over the years. It is never easy but after you grieve and bury Oscar in your heart consider opening your home and your heart to another cat or two who need you. This is not to replace Oscar but to honor his memory. I hope you had a safe drive home. After grieving for as long as need be the antics of a cat or kitten will remind you of all the good times with Oscar.

    Michele

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  115. I know just how you feel.
    Sending warm hugs from South Carolina.

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  116. I am so sorry about Oscar. We who have loved and been loved by many cats in our lives know your pain and send our support. It doesn't feel like it right now, but the grief will lessen and you will have your good memories of him to comfort you.

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  117. So sorry to hear about Oscar. I am sure he doesn't hold any regrets on you being gone a lot, because I am sure you paid him LOTs of attention when you were home. Cats are very forgiving animals, and if you are a busy person, and cat is the pet to have. They keep themselves company while you are away, and then keep you company when you are home. So let the tears flow to show your love for him, and know he is in a peaceful place now.

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  118. Oscar was the perfect photo accompanist and I will miss seeing his lovely white coated presence in your photos. So sorry to hear he's gone.

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  119. Hugs. So sorry for your loss. Bye Oscar.

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  120. Bonnie, I am so so sorry. I am sending hugs and good wishes for your loss.

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  121. Bonnie -hugs. wishing you many fond memories.
    Marilyn

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  122. Bonnie,
    I am so sorry to hear about Oscar. We do love our kitties and even when we get busy, they know we love them and that is what counts.

    Debbie

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  123. Im so sorry Bonnie! You cant feel guilty for living life the way you have to. You gave him a wonderful home and love many other cats will never have.

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  124. Sorry to hear of your loss. We have been adopted by a cat who "worked" our house when we lived in Georgia for over a year until he made his way inside. We moved to North Carolina 4 years ago and he rules the house. I feel for you because I know how they become such a part of your life. As Oscar appeared to approve of your quilting so does K. He wants to always be in the middle of each project...I'm sure you can relate to that picture in your head...I know that time will heal and I am sure that some day another adorable fur ball will present him or herself to you and you won't be able to resist...it hurts to lose them but they are so much company, comfort and entertainment that it is hard to not replace them...take care of yourself and wipe your tears...Donna

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  125. Oh Bonnie I am so so sorry! This makes me so sad too because I feel like I knew Oscar personally from all the photos you shared with us. He was such a cool cat and I know he is in cat heaven surrounded by lots of colorful pieces of quilt fabric to play with and lay on.
    Listen, you can absolutely not beat yourself up for not being there all the time. Yes Oscar loved you very much, but just as you have lots of kittie love at home, you have LOTS of human-love from us fellow quilters. Oscar probably knew that, and would have wanted you to go out share your wealth of quilt knowledge with the world.

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  126. So sorry Bonnie! Words cannot do enough to help you through this, but I know you'll look at all the people here who love you and hurt with you, and somehow that will help you through this. And remember, he's not gone, he's just waiting for the day when you are able to join him =^..^=

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  127. Take care, they are our babies and we feel the loss deeply...please drive safe.xxx

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  128. Bonnie, I am so sorry about Oscar. He'll always have a place in your heart. Take care.

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  129. I am so sorry, but glad you got to know him and love him so much. He sure was beautiful and I enjoyed getting to know him vicariously.

    Lucy (in IN)

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  130. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your love for Oscar has been evident for all of us to see. Your pain is felt and shared by your e-friends in blog land.

    May God bless you with comfort, peace, and Joyful memories. May your grief be healing, and may you be surrounded with friends and family to comfort you.

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  131. Anonymous1:30 AM EDT

    Oh dear, I'm so sorry to hear this. The only kids I was blessed with are feline, and I just dread "that" day. Hugs from St. Louis!

    Andrea

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  132. Your loss brought tears to my eyes. I thought of the beautiful girl I lost. I, too, said 'never again' to pets but the two boys I have now needed a home and I couldn't say no to them. So there you are... life goes on.

    Oscar was so handsome. What a loss you must feel.

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  133. Oh Bonnie, I'm so sorry you lost Oscar. We've lost two fur babies, and eventually will have to face that again several more times, so I know how you are hurting. Your life was better because of Oscar, and he knew you loved him, too. Take care.

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  134. So sorry to hear your sad news Bonnie. I'm sure Oscar had a wonderful life with you so don't feel bad. You should do an 'Oscar' quilt in his honour..

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  135. I have some big white towels with my pets names written on them. Several of my babies are gone now...and when I need to hug them, I go find the towel marked Mama,Blackie, Baby...it helps a LOT. So sorry you've lost your dear pet. The Rainbow Bridge poem helps so much. Hugs, Nancy

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  136. I'm so sorry for your loss. Our fur babies add so much to our lives and it's devastating to have to say good-bye. I hope time heals your heart.

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  137. I'm so sorry to hear about Oscar's passing. We also had to put down our cat Spam on Saturday. she had kidney failure. But she lived a nice long life of 16 years. you would remember her from when you were here at our house.
    no more pets. we too are ready to travel and enjoy the sights.
    Joan in GA.

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  138. So very sorry about Oscar. I so enjoyed him through your loving references to Oscar. I too will miss him very much.

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  139. I had a hard time losing my little corgi, Erin, about three years ago. They are loving creatures that give a lot of happiness. My dog went suddenly from a pneumonia and had to be put down because her breathing was so bad. I had to leave the vet room because I so upset and my loving son took over for me and stayed with her. Maybe it was more merciful for you not to be there and he was in his familiar cozy home to be at rest.

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  140. Bonnie, I am sorry that Oscar is no longer with you. You gave him a good life. The 2 of you are lucky to have found each other. Please find comfort in the good memories. XOXO Evelyn

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  141. Bonnie...You have my sympathy. It's amazing how attached we can become to pets. It seems things like this happen every so often and it prompts us into thinking some of the thoughts you are hinting at...should I be gone so much...has my career taken over my life...is the money really worth the sacrifices...what am I missing when I am gone. I am in the mitts of answering those same questions. Thankfully I only have a CRAZY teaching schedule in the fall..not all year like you. Last night my hubby and I were talking about this... He asked me some really good questions. He said you can use the money for whatever you want...after thinking I said there isn't anything I want that can be bought. He said, well then cut back. By no means, do I know what is right for you...but you do. You are more important than all the people who want to see you, all the quilt books you can produce and all the fabric in your stash!

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  142. Bonnie I feel for you. I know it is so hard when you can't be there. I had to make the dreaded decision to have one of my cats put to sleep over the phone with the vet a few years ago, cancer. I couldn't let my daughter say the words, so I had her hand me the phone. I was also away at the time. You'll have all the good memories to ease the pain.
    Janet C

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  143. Big Hugs Bonnie. I know exactly how you feel. Losing our pets, part of our family, our companions, never gets any easier. Time will make it hurt less, but please don't regret anything you think you did or didn't do for him. You loved him, he loved you, and you had a wonderful life together. He will continue to be with you, in spirit.... and in our hearts, as you are as well.

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  144. I am so very very sorry Bonnie. I know how much it hurts. Lots of hugs going your way.

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  145. My daughters and I are so sorry. We have had a hard time withour cat this last month. Our hearts hurt for you!

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  146. Hugs Bonnie. We too will miss the tales and photos of Oscar.

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