It was very hard to let her go, as she was my only cat, and she was my first true long term relationship with one. I realize now I anthropomorphized her way to much, but she was, in fact, my surrogate child. Letting her go was difficult, which is why I did it so quickly this morning - this time last night I had no idea she wouldn't be here tonight.

I didn't mean to make anyone cry, but I thank you all so much for the tears. Funny, when Mom passed away three years ago, I didn't cry much. But today - whoa.

Surprisingly, the tears have pretty much stopped. There must be so much power in the shared love, laughter and tears on this wonderful web page. I feel relief, emptiness, love (from my husband), so many things.

I had just sent most of this in an email to Jen, who first set me in the right frame of mind for letting go, but wanted to share with you all.