I didn't get anywhere w/digging the grave. The ground is frozen and I just wore myself out trying. A friend will come tomorrow morning to help me. In the meantime Pidge's body is in my garage; it isn't heated so it'll be ok there, even though she deserves better.

Dr. Lee thought at first, as did I, that she had a TIA b/c her legs and bowels gave out but by the time I got her in to his office and they cleaned her up, she could walk but not very well. At first it was as though she was trying to walk on ice; all four legs went out from under her but later she was wobbly but could walk. So he said "Mary, I don't know. Blood work will tell us more". When he came back, I could tell by his expression that the news wasn't good. All of her levels were through the roof. He said "She cannot live w/levels this high. Her kidneys are poisoning her. I may be able to keep her around for a few more days w/an IV and fluids, etc. to get you through Christmas but I don't think you want to do that" and I said "No, she's had enough. I think it's time".

It was quick and painless, which is what I wanted for her. I stroked her the entire time, told her she was the sweetest cat ever and that we're all going to miss her, to take a nice long rest and to look for Puddy at the Bridge, then to play hard after she's all rested. She wouldn't close her eyes so Dr. Lee closed them for me. He said "Look at her. She looks like a middle aged cat even now. Look at how strong she was!" I came home and found Boo sitting in the middle of the floor looking lost. I sure am going to miss that sweet face and feeling her tap my arm in that unassuming way of hers when she wanted a little attention.

I'll tell her story later in Cat Memorial. I'm just plain worn out right now. I haven't even showered yet today or eaten so I'm going to make some dinner, take a bath and then I'll be back. Thank you for all your prayers. They kept me going and I do believe that they kept Pidgelet around for a while longer.