We lost JB today. Yesterday he laid outside under a table all day and I brought him in the house around supper time. I laid him on Heidi’s bed and kept checking on him throughout the evening. At one point he tried to stand up and lost his balance.
This morning I couldn’t find him until I went to Rick’s shop. There was his lifeless body – he had made it out the dog door at the back of the house and walked, stumbled almost all the way to the barn. Poor guy. I wonder if he had a stroke or else old age just caught up with him. I need to look up his age – almost as old as Heidi, I think.
This afternoon Rick buried both Heidi, who had been in the freezer, and JB down by the garden. I disposed of his own private box on my sewing island, put his dish in the dishwasher and said goodbye to a part of my life for around 18 years.
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You liked Liz’s quilt!
Fabric- Dawn on the Prairie by Fancy That Design House (Stephanie Sliwinski)
Pattern- Summer season by MSQC but slightly modified with the row layout.
Mollie visited today – we nearly blew away in the 50+ mph winds.
This is the view from the porch:
At times I couldn’t see that farm place in the distance.
This evening I’m sitting in the porch and the wind has settled down to almost nothing. The whole day has been miserable all the way around. I wish you could see the porch floor – I could write my name in the dirt. AND my window washers were here at 9 this morning. Such bad timing.
For Tina
Oh, Mary! I am so sorry to read about JB. Sending you a great big hug of consolation. I know how hard this is.
So very, very sorry for your loss of your sweet friend, JB. They are such an intimate part of our lives and the time we have with them is always, always, always too short. It is amazing how much of our heart they hold and never let go. They have that special part forever. Still, there is always room for another, not to take any others’ places; but, to create and forever occupy their own.
Marlene – eloquently said and true!!!
Oh Mary, I had tears in my eyes just reading about your sweet JB crossing The Rainbow Bridge. Know that he and Hazel will be waiting there waiting for you.
Treasure all those sweet memories and photos of your sweet boy and know that he had a wonderful long life filled with lots of love!
Big hugs! 💕🐾
Oh Mary, I had tears in my eyes just reading about your sweet JB crossing The Rainbow Bridge. Know that he and Hazel will be waiting there waiting for you.
It’s never easy when we lose our furrrrbabies. Treasure all those sweet memories and photos of your sweet boy.
Big hugs! 💕🐾
Hi Mary,
I’m so sorry about Heidi and JB. I know how hard it is to lose them. I have a very old cat, Matilda. She’s 18. I try to spend as much time as I can with her because I’m afraid it won’t be too long before I have to say goodbye.
Take care.
so sorry about JB, he was such a pretty cat
I thought one of mine was going to, but he recovered he is also between 18 and 20
so sad when they do, they are part of our lives/family for so long
So sad about JB. He went out on his own terms, knowing he was well loved by two special people – Mary and Rick.
I’m so sorry to hear about JB.
So sorry to hear about the loss of JB. He had a long wonderful life on your farm. It’s so difficult to loose a long time companion.
Let me interrupt your day everyone. If you have Netflix, they have a 33 minute documentary you absolutely must see. It is “The Quilters” filmed at Missouri State Prison where inmates make quilts for foster children. Heartwarming and will give you a new perspective.
Janet – thank you! I actually have it marked on my calendar but haven’t gotten around to watching it. I hope Jo sees this.
Janet – I watched it last night – it was very good!!
Oh Mary, I’m so sorry you and Rick are going through this heartache! I’m sending a big hug your way
I am so sorry about the last days of JB. He knew he was loved and safe. May you be comforted by the fact that you gave him his best life. My condolences to you and Rick both.
I loved seeing the quilts by Alice and Jeannie.
I hated to hear about the high winds that you had. Terrible dust being blown around isn’t healthy for anyone. Sorry about those windows and the porch. We’re hot here in Ohio, but the rain keeps missing me.
Keep safe, everyone.
Any animal that finds its way to your farm is lucky indeed. They got food, love and trips to the vet, all things so many animals are dreaming of and sometimes can’t ever get. Also, he died on his own without the help of the vet. Those of us with elderly animals always wish for that kind of end for their much loved pets. Still, no matter the end, we are sad.
I’m so sorry to hear about JB. It’s so hard to lose our long time companions. My granddog Sally is getting worse. I think I won’t see her again – she has tumors all over her body. It’s so sad for my son and his family. And my other son’s cat isn’t doing well. He is having kidney problems. Both pets have been special companions through some hard times.
The heat has hit Texas this week. We’ve had fairly mild weather until now.
Mary, it’s so sad to hear about BJ. That was a cool cat, and great company.
The wind is relentless here again today. At least your weeds are growing! Even our weeds are stunted.
So sorry about JB, your sweet, old pirate.
You did all you could for him.
May each passing day bring you some comfort.
Sorry for your loss Mary. JB was a real trooper.
After 18 years you will be seeing your wonderful JB in your dreams. How fortunate you were that he was one resilient cat.
So sorry to hear about JB. Most definitely a life well lived. Take care.
I am so sorry to hear about JB; he was a sweetheart.
I did enjoy seeing Liz’s beautiful quilt-good job. I also really liked Alice Brown’s half square triangle quilt; I see one of those in my future.
There was stormy weather in our area yesterday afternoon and evening; hoping all is well for the blog readers. Thanks, Mary 🥰
I noticed the same thing about Alice’s quilt and that red border is at a good scale for the inside setting of the half square triangles. Do you think that these were leftover triangles? It is hard to discern from images what size the quilt might be.
Oh yes. I see Alice’s post now about the gifted triangles and that it is a smaller piece. Those reproduction fabrics are 100% appealing every time.
I’m so sorry about JB. He had the best life with you on the farm.
Liz’s quilt I very pretty. I have a charm pack and some yardage from that fabric collection. The colors are so nice and soft.
Very sorry about the passing of JB, Mary, but you will feel his presence in the days and weeks to come, weaving around your feet, paying a visit, making sure you’re OK. That’s always happened with my cats when they crossed to the rainbow bridge.
So very sorry to hear about JB! You and Rick are very special fur baby parents and give all you have to caring for them! He had a very good life with you! Makes us want to give big hugs to the fur babies we still have! I hope you have a better day today!
It’s always so hard to lose a pet you have had for so long. It definitely leaves a hole in your heart. Give Hazel and Keeper a big hug.
So sorry to hear this. It’s so hard to get through when they have been in our daily lives so long.
So sorry about your cat! Hope that today is sunny and bright with no wind and you can enjoy doing Friday things.
I have started quilting on a Spiderman panel with borders that will be a birthday present for a three year old in the fall. That web is fun to stitch!
I have also been doing some cross stitch…a big circle with a little house and hollyhocks in the center and flowers ALL around the circle. It says, “Live Simply. Bloom Wildly.” Pretty good advice for anyone!
I am so sorry to hear that JB has passed. I only have one note card with JB and Zack on it and will not send it out because I have met them both and am so happy I have. They were both so very sweet.
My sincere condolences to you. I wish I could give you a hug.
So sorry for your loss of JB. They are like family and it hurts to see them go.
Yes, I really do like Liz’s quilt. Also the one from SD quilter with bird is very striking!
Last night I put the final stiches in a quilt. Two more need the binding tacked–it could be another six months… I lost some mojo and need to get it back.
I’m so sorry about JB. Our outdoor cats often disappear when it’s their time. Every once in a while they will go to their favorite place. It’s sad but all cats go to heaven. Thinking of you. Hugs!
I’m so sorry for your loss Mary. I know how hard it is to lose a member of our fur family. But I also know your pets live their best life in your care. Hug and prayers
You are so good Mary giving so many cats your loving home. And you always will as it’s just who you are. Losing them is the part that none of us cope well with even when we say they are in a better place. Each time I go out to my gardens and see another plaque from a buried pet, I’m sad but know each one has a special place in my heart as all of yours do too. I feel bad for both you and Rick losing JB.
What a hole in your furry family, he will be missed. Treat yourselves extra kindly.
Oh, sweet JB… thanks for sharing his life with us… I know you will miss having him around. Take good care as you adjust and deal with your grief… sending you a hug
Mary, you have my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of JB. The death of a pet is so tough to deal with. For days, weeks you think you hear them in the next room. You look for them at the door. Or, at your feet while you are sitting or working. I speak from recent experience. I am so sad for you and Rick. Hugs to you.
Deb in MN
My heart is breaking for you. JB lived his best life at your house and passed peacefully where he was loved.
Many hugs and prayers for peace and comfort.
I’m so sorry about JB. He had a good long life, but it always hurts to lose our beloved pets. Hugs!
No words can ease the heartache of losing a beloved pet. I don’t think it ever gets easier. Hugs to you and Rick.
My sympathy for the loss of you dear JB. I have been in your shoes numerous times. It never gets easier. They, any pet, leaves a big whole in your heart when they leave this life. Prayers to you
Sweet Mary, we are all so sad for you and your loss. I know the pain is so awful and no words can take it away. He was blessed in life to be with you and now with Heidi and the others. Maybe have some iced teas and hug on Keeper. Love you!
Thank you for sending Rose my info, she messaged and I am enjoying her blog ❤️
Pamela – and I realized after I gave your email address to her that I did not ask your permission! I know better – Rose is a good friend and I’m glad you enjoy her blog
So sorry to hear about JB passing. JB and Heidi will live forever in your hearts.
Mary, My condolences to you and Rick on the passing of JB. Very sad, to lose first Heidi and then JB. My condolences again,. Janice
Mary,
So sorry to hear about JB….he had a wonderful life with You and Rick
Sending hugs…..
Sandy
I am so sorry about JB. 18 years is a long time to live a pet.
I’m on my way to Waterloo for my shoulder surgery at 8:00 this morning. I’m shaking like a leaf. I’ll be glad when this is over.
Gloria – best of luck today!! Won’t you be glad it’s over? Please let me know how you’re doing.
Prayers for a quick recovery!
Mary our thoughts are with you and Rick with the loss of your kitty.
How do you dare ride through the trees with this awful wind!?
Jay has been coughing for three weeks and he is finally going to the doctor this morning. I hope they can do something for him!
Love the quilts and wall hanging!
Dear Gloria, I’m saying a prayer for you that you have peace as you go to surgery. God be with you as you recover.
Carolyn
I am sorry for your loss. We are still recovering from putting our two old dogs down within a few months of each other last year. I found some inexpensive memorial edging stones on Etsy to use in the garden and I take great comfort when I see them. Maybe something like this could help you as well. Some days are just so hard to keep putting one foot in front of the other to keep moving…
Mary and Rick sorry about your loss of JB. What better place to be able to roam the farm and that is what he tried to do nearing the end of his life. It was very windy yesterday and all the flowers blew off the oak trees and made windrows in the driveway. What a mess. The lawn looked brown instead of green. At least now we can wash down the porch.
I am so sad to read about JB’s passing. I remember talking to you about JB and my cat, Tuna. That was probably a couple years ago. Anyway, you told me JB was 20 at that time. It sounds like JB died peacefully, for which l am thankful. Please accept my heartfelt condolences, remember him fondly, and always keep his heart in your heart.
Our lives are so much better having our furry friends in it. It is a loss when they leave and pass over the rainbow bridge as JD and Heidi have done. Know that they felt your love all these years!
I meant to say JB. Sorry!
Mary, condolences with the loss of JB – he was such a fixture in your lives and on the blog. I will miss him too. But a life well lived, just like Heidi’s on the paradise for cats that is your farm! That’ll be some reunion on the other side of the rainbow bridge today. You and Rick be kind to yourselves the coming days. Hug your other pets and take comfort in knowing that you enabled JB and Heidi to live their best, long, lives, full of love and companionship. No cats could have asked for more.
Mary .. my heart goes out to you. I’ve closely followed your updates on JB … precious kitty. And Heidi too. So special. My condolences to You & Rick.
Lyn in Lake Tapps, Washington
So sorry about JB’s passing. You and Rick gave him a good home for so many years. He knew he was loved.
Mary – So sorry about JB. Now he is resting in peace with Heidi. Eighteen years is a long time. You were blessed to have him and Heidi for so many years.
Take care, Mary.
Hugs for you, Mary…
Hi Mary, so sorry to hear about JB, it’s hard to lose our pets, such a big part of your family. Take care everyone, best wishes from Sandy
I’m so sorry for your lost. JB was a lucky kitty growing up and growing old on your farm.
Mary, I’m so sorry you’ve lost both JB and Heidi. Your ‘fur family’ definitely couldn’t have asked to find a more loving home. Thank you for sharing their antics and stories … I love them all (even the sad ones). Take care of you and Rick now.
So sorry that you’ve lost both Heidi & JB. They both lived their best lives with you on the farm. It’s always a sad day when we lose our sweet fur babies. Our weather has gotten very hot & humid (80+) here in SW Ohio. More rain is expected by Fri! I think this is the wettest spring on record so far! Lots of sinus colds due to the up & down temps. Ron & I both have been sick with sinus infections for over a week.
So sorry about he loss of both Heidi and JB – it is so hard to lose our furry family members.
It was so windy today! I was working in my sewing room this afternoon and walked by the window and did a double take – I couldn’t see the trees a block away because of the dust storm! Then I stepped out on the deck to see if our chairs were still in our yard – they were – but my eyes were gritty and I could taste the soil. We have sticks all over the yard but no trees down, we didn’t lose power and we aren’t fighting a fire in our area so we count ourselves as lucky! Sherry in Kasson
Mary, I’m so very sorry to hear of JB’s passing. My heart goes out to you.
So very sorry about the loss of JB. I know you will miss him terribly. He lived a life in which he was safe and loved, and he’ll be remembered. That is a real gift to give to anyone. I know he gave to you in return, too. Sending love.
I’m so sorry about JB. So hard to lose a pet friend. My oldest cats have been 18 that I’ve lost,such a part of our lives.
Alice Brown: I love your little quilt! I’m in SW Ohio, too! I thought I was the only one around here making reproduction quilts, and small ones, to boot
Jay, the friends I sew with love reproduction quilts! A couple of them used their scraps to make HST & we were each gifted a Ziploc bag of them. This was what I made with mine! Very pleased with how this little quilt turned out. Where in SW Ohio do you live? I’m in Maineville.
Rick and Mary condolences to you both. After all those years together……….so sad.
I ‘m sorry about JB. He certainly had a good life with you.
So sorry, Mary. JB and Heidi have been a part of your life for many years.
I am so sorry you lost JB.What a lovely,loyal friend he has been to you for so many years! He has traveled the Rainbow bridge and found all his friends and Heidi . He is basking in the sunshine and chasing butterflies. I like to think we meet all our furry friends on the other side🌼.
I’m so sorry your JB is gone, but he sure had a good, long life, and he knew he was loved. That’s all any of us can ask for.