MagicMark

It's cold out and the coffee I'm drinking now to keep warm is bitter, not enough sweetener. I'm sitting next to my space heater and it's not keeping me warm. I sit here thinking and my mind drifts to Magnolia.

Magnolia was her name but from the very beginning the little black kitten would be known in my family as Maggie.

Maggie was so cute. When I first saw her she was spying me with caution. So I spoke to her in baby talk and immediately she bounced up on the side of the bed and pulled herself up the rest of the way. I offered her what I was eating, Vienna Sausage. She ate half a link and called it quits.

She was Grandma's birthday gift from my older brother. And when my Grandmother laid eyes on Maggie, she (Grandma) threw her arms in the air and declared, "I dreamed about getting a black kitten!" And from that moment on Maggie was a member of our family.

During the last few years of Grandma's life, she and I would play a card game called 31 every night, just when the Lifetime Television Network would air "The Golden Girls". We loved that show and Grandma would laugh and laugh at Sophia Petrillo (Estelle Getty). And Maggie would join us, curling up on the bed to keep us company and to make sure neither one of us cheated at cards.

Well, Grandma died eight years ago and we moved to another part of town but Maggie went with us. We took care of Maggie. And we love her dearly.

Last Mother's Day I took a picture of Maggie and made it into a 13 x 19 inch portrait for Mom.

Tonight was a cold night. And Maggie hadn't been doing well. You see Maggie has a cancerous tumor on her abdomen. Mom and I took her to the kitty doctor. And the doctor spoke in hushed tones and held her head down. Mom and I had to make a decision on Maggie's behalf. And Mom and I and the veterinarian came to the conclusion that Maggie should not suffer in her twilight years.

So, we agree to put Maggie to sleep. The doctor asked if we wanted to say goodbye to Maggie. Mom and I agreed that Maggie should not see us the last time upset. So we declined to say goodbye.

So, here it is, I'm still drinking this bitter coffee and it's getting late. Good night my sweet Magnolia. My Maggie.

Rest in peace.

Magnolia (Maggie) 2002-2013

PaulG Loc: Western Australia

I feel for you Mark but you have many, many special memories. It's always hard to let go and say goodbye but is all part of the "grander plan". Maybe one day we'll all understand a little better, who knows. But the important thing is that during Maggie's time she had a positive influence and gave pleasure. And that's how she would like to be remembered. All the best and sorry for your loss. She looks like a lovely little cat.

Jay Pat Loc: Round Rock, Texas, USA

Nice tribute to Maggie!
It's hard to let the cherished, pets go.......
Pat

tainkc Loc: Kansas City

I feel bad for you, Mark.

lukevaliant Loc: gloucester city,n. j.

my first cat 's name was maggie, i'll never forget when i said good bye <>im sorry for your loss!

Mark L

I'm so sorry for your loss, I really can't put it into words. I have three kitties and can't imagine having to say goodbye. Just last night I was at a fundraiser for an animal shelter I do volunteer work for and the speaker was Temple Grandin - an amazing person who understands the needs and wants of animals on a whole different level. Both your's and and Maggie's lives have been made much richer by your crossing of paths. Hold the good things near to your heart.

MagicMark

Thank you, Paul.

MagicMark

Thank you, Jay Pat.

MagicMark

Thank you, Tom.

MagicMark

Thank you, Luke.

MagicMark

Thank you, Mark.

luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

Mark,
I am so sorry for your loss. Last Wednesday I had to put one of my kitties to sleep. Her name was Cierra. I adopted her from the pound 3 years ago. They were about to put her to sleep because no one wanted a 3 legged cat. She developed cancer in the elbow of the front leg on the same side of her missing back leg. The vet and I agreed that she wouldn't have a quality life with 2 legs on the same side. Cierra and Maggie could be twins.

With your permission, I'd like to post her picture for you to see. I almost fell out of the chair when I saw Maggie's picture.

rocco_7155 Loc: Connecticut/Louisiana

So sorry for your loss Mark. Maggie and your family were lucky to have had your many years together. Sip your coffee and smile for those years.
Roc

MagicMark

Of course, Dodie. You can post any picture you like on any thread I make. I'd be honored to see Cierra. :)

MagicMark

Thank you, Roc.