Don't be so hard on yourself Gary, you give your cats the very best life. Sometimes, cats being cats, have their own plans.
I know I will be able to 'grab' Tessa again, but not for a while as I don't want to spook her. She really doesn't know human touch, having been feral. We're getting there. Just need to find a better plan to get her in the carrier. Some high value food in the carrier might work, we shall see.