Oh L-A my heart goes out to you. So much has happened in your life and now this. Yes gradually the pain does go away but you are left with a lifetime of precious, wonderful memories. Your
Smudgie was one beautiful cat. The markings on him are so gorgeous and unique. Now when i think of my Rainbow Bridge furbabies, it brings a smile to my face cause i was blessed to have them as a part of my life.
When my Captain, male tabby, died in my arms of a stroke, in his final moments, he looked up at me and meowed, and i told him "It's ok baby, you sleep now and rest in peace." I still believe that when he looked up at me and meowed, he was thanking me for the wonderful life i gave him and for being there with him in his final moments.
So when Smudgie's picture fell, i believe it was his way of thanking you for the wonderful life and love you gave him and for letting him rest in peace.
You did the right thing L-A cause you didn't leave your beloved Smudgie to go on and suffer as he would have.
You and your beloved Smudgie are in my thoughts and my prayers.