Dear Alice, I read your post and tears came to my eyes. I know all about how you are feeling, because just May 14th I lost my sweet 16 1/2 year old calico girl, Patches.
No matter how old they are when they come into our lives, they just have a way of crawling right into our heart - to stay! How wonderful and dedicated you were to feed her, take care of her and build up her trust in you. I know she loved you dearly for it.

Rest in peace, health and happiness dear Cricket - you were well loved.

My prayers are with you - it is such a heart wrenching time and I understand.

You came to the right place to express your grief and I am glad you felt you could share with all of us.