Thankful Thursday

 ...begin each day with a grateful heart....

 It's been 7 months since I last held my Gracie Grace.

 Hard to believe that cheerful sweet face isn't here to greet me each morning.

 I'm sharing some photos taken in Sept 2013 that were not published that month.

 Gracie in her hiding spot behind my computer files.
Such a bittersweet memory for me.

 In Sept 2013 I was so bereaved over just losing Abby.
How could I have ever survived knowing in less than 6 months I would lose Gracie too?

 Gracie covered in catnip, going crazy pants.

Gracie was always grateful. She had such a rough start in life. Being abandoned at the very place that would have taken her life had she been let inside. But there was a silver lining. We were there when she needed us, unbeknownst to us she would become a beautiful addition to our family. Gracie was always easy. She fit in seamlessly and we never had any trouble with her. I think she had a grateful heart to find a family who loved her and wanted her. She lived a charmed life and she loved her big brother Ping. She loved to torment him with play. Goodness Gracie could play. ThOe was her favorite game. I can still hear the thundering paws coming across the carpet in the den. I miss that sound. I miss her not returning my call when I call out Gracie Grace. Every time I did, she would meow up at me. I have a video I shot on my iPad on Feb 11, 2014 which was Gracie's last morning with me. I got that meow I wanted. I got that and so much more. So when I need a reminder I watch that video. I'm so sorry Gracie Grace you had to run off to the Bridge so soon. I could never have guessed you of all the kitties would have to leave us far far too soon. I miss you. I wish there was a way to say it better, I keep searching but for now your absence rests heavy on me still.
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I also must remember with a heavy heart
that on this date in 2001 our own Country
lost so many innocent people by a vicious attack by those
who hate us because we hold different societal beliefs.
The hate continues 13 years later.
If 9-11 taught us nothing
is that we are vulnerable.
Still.

I just came upon this article written by Peggy Noonan (here) From Sept 11 to Eternity written Dec 7, 2001 it brings up some very interesting thoughts on 9-11.
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We're also joining up with Pepi Smart Dog for this week's Thankful Thursday.

Thankful Thursday With Grace

We are very thankful because our dear Gracie is so much better not any better.We were very afraid that she was may join her Angel sister Abby and that was is making each one of us very very sad. But through a miracle it looks like Gracie will enjoying staying right here with us for a long long time. WE are so hopeful and grateful. 

 UPDATE 7:30AM As you may have surmised I wrote this post prior to Gracie's oncology appointment. Since that time things have taken a radical departure. Gracie has not been eating and is simply not feeling good. I have been in contact with her regular vet and will be so again today. I am trying my best to do what is right for Gracie. It is a very difficult balance. It's hard to believe that just 48 hours ago I held such hope. Things happen so quickly with no easy answers. Please keep Gracie in your prayers.