RB Bert and RB Ernie were our first cats as a married family with kids and they were with us for about 16 and 17 years. Ernie died almost two years ago - Bert, who was my heart kitty - about 6-7 years ago, and I cry for them still. Now we have our "new" family of young cats - but I know that day will come again, although hopefully not for a long time. I do the same thing - sit and look at them and wonder how in the world it will be when that day comes. Each one becomes so much a part of my life and I love each one so very much. How can we NOT love these creatures that are totally wrapped in our lives??