Fern could not hold on any longer, she was ready to go.

A few months shy of your (approximate) 15th birthday.

I must say, you hid your weakening body well. The days and weeks before you stopped eating, you were as lively as ever. No clue was given that your kidneys were shutting down. But your blood levels told the grim story.

I will always remember how much you changed from a super shy little girl to one who would literally demand attention. And I will also remember how that was the LONGEST road I have ever experienced. Your changes did not come overnight. But rather over YEARS. Most "casual" cat owners would have given up hope on you long ago. But we were content to watch you blossom at your own pace.

Six years, yes I remember it was 6 years before you attempted to climb onto my lap. And only if there were a blanket or newspaper between us.

But these last months, almost 14 years after adoption, you would lay with us to watch TV.

Tonight another piece of my heart goes to the rainbow bridge with you. Play hard Fern, you will be missed.