Hard to believe it's been two weeks since putting my best friend to sleep. I picked up Simba's remains last night. I put his favorite little stuffed mouse toy in the can with him and then put it up in my hutch cabinet where it will be safe and viewable. There was also a sympathy card, certificate and a poem that everytime I read I find myself teary eyed and sniffley.

Simba II was sitting on the bottom part of the hutch while I was putting Simba I up in the glass enclosed shelf. I didn't see him at first, I felt something on my arm and looked down to see Simba II standing there with his paw on my arm and looking at me. It was almost like he was saying "I know you are hurting but I'm here for you." I got a big smile on my face and thanked him.

Not sure if the poem that I got has been posted on here before but here it is:

I understand that you have gone
To a brighter place
A better dawn

The time we shared
the laughter, the tears
Are memories my friend
I will always hold dear

I could never forget you
Nor would I try
But the time has come
For me to say goodbye

I will miss you friend
More than you know
But I can proudly tell you
That I loved you SO

Tommorrow is a new day
A fresh new start
You'll be in the arms of the Angels
But you'll live on in my heart!

Simba's Daddy - We've written before. What a touching story of how Simba II was there with his paw on your arm. I am so glad that you and Simba II have found one another. I really think that animals have that special instinct to know what we need from them. I can't believe that it has been two weeks already for Simba I myself. Our Scooter passed 4 weeks tomorrow. I don't know how I've gotten through these 4 weeks, but I have. Of course with tears, and missing him terribly, but, remembering him in happier, heathier times has helped. Plus, I've been to the local animal shelter 3 times this week to give love and comfort to the cats there. I hate seeing them all in cages. There is one 13 year old cat, they have named Mookie. I have visited him there every time I've gone. There is a look in his eyes I cannot explain. He is also a very tall cat. His legs(and I am not exagerating) are at least 12 inches before you even get to the shoulder part of him. He loves for me to scratch his head and talk to him.

I was told that a woman was hoping to get back there this afternoon, to take him to a place, where he would not be in a cage until he can be found a home. At least if he has to be in a cage, I hope it is a very large one.

Simba I is back with you where he belongs again, but always in your heart. The poem was beautiful, and thank you for posting it. I had not seen that poem before.

Wishing you and your family, and Simba II peace, comfort and happiness always.

Trish