I just got home from the vet’s office where I had Pam euthanized. Yes, one of the hardest things in life you have to do but she deserved to slip away comfortably and not lay here to die inch by inch.
In 2008 we printed Pam’s Sewing Cards.
Just think….I was 58 years old when I got Pam as a rescue kitten from Pam Kerns who found her in a stack of wood as a tiny little thing. How much has happened in my life since I was 58?
We used Pam in so many pictures through the years including the Goat Gazette.
So….if you understand the Cat Distribution System you know a new cat will likely show up to take Pam’s place although those will be big paws to fill.
I am heartbroken but relieved for Pam and that’s the only thing that matters.
💔
Mary,
I’m so sorry about Pam. She had a wonderfully long life and you were really her person. Hugs to you in your sadness and grief. 🌻
So sorry for your loss Mary, but as you said it was the most loving thing you could do. You will always have wonderful memories of her. And who knows if Mortie came before to help you or if another cat will come your way. Thinking about you, and I know how hard it is.
So sorry Mary. Pam lived a long happy life. She was loved💔. It is a hard decision to make but it is the kind and compassionate one.
Viv in Idaho
Mary so very for the loss of Pam. A beautiful cat that was loved by a beautiful mom. May she now jump and run with all the other kitties over the Rainbow Bridge.
❤️
So sorry, Mary. I had not seen the adorable note cards featuring Pam; she was a beauty. As in this post’s title, you did your last act of love for her. Take Care, 🥰
Pam was such a beautiful kitty…She was so lucky to be adopted by you…and to live a special life on your farm..I am so sorry for your loss..
Oh Mary, I am all choked up. You mention Pam so many times over the years. She was a beautiful kitty with all the colors. Thank you for sharing her story. Like you said, maybe a new kitty that looks just like her.
You did the right thing.
Mary, Ilm so sorry to read about the loss of Pam. You gave her a wonderful life and she was so lucky to be a part of your farm and life. And i know that she gave you lots of happiness as well. It’s never easy to lose a pet and we always worry that whe we have to make the choice, that it is the right one/time. 20 years is just amazing. Proves that she was “living the life”. Sending hugs .
Mary, sending you a GIANT hug. I’m so glad you found your sweet Pam and gave her a peaceful crossing over the Rainbow Bridge.
It never gets easier… treasure all those precious memories you have of your sweet and beautiful girl.🐾💕 so happy that your heart is open for the next little nugget from the Cat Distribution System. Maybe Mortie was sent to you early to ease your broken heart.
I’m so sorry for you loss.💔
Know that she will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge along with all your other four legged friends.
Tim, have you seen him lately?
I can so relate as I too made that decision three weeks ago for my Leon. The house is really empty, but I too sense a tail going around the corner or those cat noises during the night. We are getting some house construction done in September, not a good time now to be adopted by a cat or two. But come the end of September and my birthday, I will be browsing the ARL daily for a couple of older bonded cats who want to adopt a human or two. Been married 55 years and this is the first time that there hasn’t been a cat or two in the house. Hubby says no more cats – he’s wrong, he just doesn’t realize it yet! Pets make us realize what we don’t know as they wriggle, purr and cuddle their way into our lives. Hugs to you Mary.
So sorry for the loss of your precious pet. Life comes with difficult decisions and though the pain is unbearable right now, you made the right choice. Sending prayers.
Losing a cat is such a painful thing……dogs too I am sure. Pets are such blessings to our lives. And cats are only halfway ours!!!!!! If they put their trust in us it is a very special bond. Pam was blessed to be in your care. She was loved and treasured. I hope you let us know when that newcomer shows up!!!!!!!
You are such a kind and caring person, Mary. Cats such as Pam seek you out and spend remarkable lives with you. It is so difficult to let them go as so many on the blog attest, but you have shown the courage to support them to the end. Bless you and take comfort in remembering all the happy memories that Pam brought to you.
Karen C.
Mary,
So very sorry for your loss. She has quite a story, such a part of your life. My son has a big Tom he toois old and biding his time. I do hope that soon another one like Mortie comes along, I love hearing bout him and the goats.
Thank you for being here each and everyday, you mean so much to so many.❤️
Margaret
So sorry that you had to make the tough decision to ease Pam’s passing. We’ve made that decision a few times ourselves. So hard to do, but the right thing. Pam was a great companion. I have some of her cards. Looking forward to seeing who shows up at the Farm to add to the love. Thinking of you, Mary.
Mary –
I am glad that you were able to find Pam and be with her when it was time to say goodbye. Its such a hard thing to do but an honorable thing to do. Pam was a beautiful and personable kitty and so photogenic! I don’t think I ever saw or knew about the cards you made with her before now. What a wonderful story and keepsake to remember Pam in her “hay days”. I’m also wondering if Mortie wasn’t sent to you by the cat distribution system a little early to work her way into the farm menagerie and be there now to comfort you at this time of loss.
I feel deeply for your loss, I’ve been there many times and the loss of a beloved family member is so very difficult even after you have given them a rich, healthy long life. You did do the right thing, letting her go peacefully without suffering until the end. She was a beautiful girl and you are lucky to have had her to love.
And thanks for the photo of the little goats running out to play – little goat butts! So darn cute!!
Heartfelt blessing to everyone, may you have a wonderful day.
I am so very sorry for your loss she was a sweet little lady and a real beauty. She now is at rest but was certainly hard for you but the best option for her.
What changes she experienced with you and new friends to be made. We were always greeted by her and her family which made me feel so welcome. Bless her and you.
Pam was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have her. She was a beautiful cat. I’m sending you a hug tonight.
I’m sorry for your loss of pretty Pam. That was a brave and compassionate thing to do. She lived a long and happy life with you.
Dear Mary,
Thank you for the life and dignified passing you gave Pam. I’m so sorry. It’s so hard to say goodbye. ❤️
So sorry to hear about Pam. She lived an incredible life with you on the farm and undoubtedly knew just how much she was loved. Take care.
So sorry for the loss of Pam. It’s so hard to do, but you know you did the right thing for her. I recently lost the last of our cats, she lived more years than any other farm cat I have had. I am waiting for the cat distribution system to work, this is the first time in 45 years we haven’t had any farm cats.
Mary,
Thank you for all the beautiful care you give to your all your snimals. You treasure them and they in turn treasure you and your many kindnesses to them, year after year after year. Pam is at peace and you can also be at peace. You have so many great memories of Pam to celebrate, not to mention photo’s and cards!
I’m anxious to see the lucky kitty that is sure to show up soon looking for “ The Country Threads” hangout!
Sorry for your loss Mary. Pam sure was a celebrity.
So sorry to hear about Pam. She was one photogenic cat…and she had a great life! Hugs
I’m so very sorry Mary. Pam was a beautiful girl. Her cards are a treasure!
Mary, you
Loved Pam to the end. I am so glad you found her hiding place and kept her from harm. God bless you for all the care and love you give all your animals. Thinking of you
I send you my sympathy in the loss of Pam. I’ve buried 3 wonderful kitties and I have 2 that are 17 years old—brother and sister. It’s so hard when you love them so much. The vet helped me also.
Mary, it is an act of kindness. You are the kindest person.
Thank you for sharing with us her beautiful face and many stories.
So sorry for your loss of your sweet kitty. Such a hard decision for you! Made with great love.❤️
What a heartfelt post. Thanks for giving Pamt this final gift of love. Enjoy all you fabulous memories. 💔
So sorry to hear about Pam, It is always hard, I just had to let 2 of our cats go, and now there is another one who likes to hide
Mary the title of this post says it all. We’ve also had numerous cats that we’ve made the same decision for over 45 years. It is hard. Treasure the memories of your sweet Pam. Take care of you.
Mary, My condolences to you on the passing of Pam. Please continue to share more photos of her, and any stories about her. Janice, TC area
Mary, I am so sorry for your loss! It is a very hard day for you, but what a gift for dear Pam! Not only have you held her in your heart all those years, today you put her needs ahead of yours and gave her the added gift of peace. I am 80, and had my first cat “reserved” for me by my grandmother in the Catskill mountains when I was born, to be delivered when I reached the ripe old age of 1 year. Tigerfoots was a joy and took care of me until I was 13 years old. My prayers are with you today and in the future….I am waiting to see what cat or cats will notice the cat vacancy and drop in to cheer you up!
As always, thank you SO much for your wonderful blog! It is usually the first email I look for every morning.
I hope my Charlie is playing with Pam right now.
Mary, I’m so sorry for your loss of Pam. We all know when it’s time to let our fur babies go, but it sure isn’t easy. Pam had such a good life with you, lucky girl!
So sorry, Mary. But I know Pam had a swell life at your place. But it takes time to quit expecting them to be there. I am glad she is resting in peace. Never an easy to let them go. Maybe you can find a bit of comfort in your sewing machine.
This is a sad day in Garner. I am so sorry for the grief you are feeling right now. You will hold Pam in your heart forever and happy memories will replace your sorrow. Pam will be patiently waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge – there will be a stampede of all your animals as you cross rainbow bridge – all of them covering you with licks and kisses. You are a special person to love animals so much.
Ah, Mary, I’m so sorry you had to perform that last act of kindness and mercy. It’s just heartbreaking to say goodbye. Losing our “Kitty” a few years ago left a wide open hole in our lives. I still come close to tears when I think of all the joy she brought into our home and his hard it was to lose her. My husband cried his eyes out, as did I, and said he’d NEVER get another animal.
And then, a while later, we too fell into the cat distribution ring and now have Scarlett, who is every bit as sassy and bossy as Kitty! She came along about six weeks into a heart scare for my husband. Our daughter-in-law sent a photo of her at an adoption center in Ohio, and the next thing I knew, he was rooting around the crawl space for a litter box! He said.. I need a cat to help me heal. We had a six hour drive from NY to pick her up!
I’m guessing you’ll have to travel about 60 yards to find your next best friend to love. I think loving is the hardest part of life, as it does lead to loss. But the memories you have! The Country Threads Pam cards! Priceless.
My heart breaks with you, for you. You have acted with deep love and compassion, but it sure doesn’t make it any easier, I know. Pam was a beautiful and extremely photogenic cat; she’ll live on in your heart forever.
Oh Mary , I’m so sorry for you loss. May you find comfort know that she and all your other animal pets will be waiting for you
Awww, Mary. I am so sorry, but at least she was with someone who loved her. She knew you were there. She was beautiful. I still have some of those cards, I think.
Our county was bit by straight line winds and a tornado yesterday. We lost two big branches and lots of twigs, but all ok. BIG Trees were uprooted all over and a church lost its roof! Lots of chain saws around us.
Those last acts of kindness are never easy… I’m so sorry for your loss! What great memories you have…
I am so sorry for your loss. It is so difficult to make that decision. You have many good memories of Pam and you gave her a good life as well as making the tough decision to let her go peacefully.
There are tears in my eyes as I type this. You were both so lucky to have each other. Pam had the best possible life with you.
Oh, Mary, I’m so sorry, and I sure feel your pain about Pam. I’m a crazy cat lady – have tears right now. As hard as it is, you knew it was time. Remember those 20 years of life you shared with her. And all the love and comfort she gave you in return. Thinking of you….
I am so sorry for your loss…. Our fur babies are so much like family… you absolutely did the right thing…its not about how sad you feel but how much you loved her and did the right thing…God bless you .
Oh, my sweet Mary, tears are flowing here. My 12 year old poodle died in my arms in the way to the vet 28 Feb. I know exactly how you feel. I’m sitting here with both my cats who have loved me hard since her passing.
I’m not close enough to give you the hug I long to give, but I’ll pray for you.
Abba, wrap our Mary in a big, tight hug & don’t turn loose!! Surround her with your love & give her your peace that passes all understanding.
Love you, girl
Mary, I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved cat, Pam. It is never easy on people to have to do the hard thing when it comes to their pets. I’m not a cat person, I belong to the dog pound, but I can empathize and relate to what you’re going through. More than likely another cat will show up and try their best cantics (cat + antics) to get your attention and make room in your heart – cats are funny that way. Asking the Lord bless you and to ease your sorrow.
I’m so glad you were able to find Pam when you did. It’s such a hard thing to do but it’s the right thing to do. She was a beautiful kitty, and I do hope that the Cat Distribution System kicks in soon! I’ve been hoping to have a stray kitten show up but it’s been a long time since we’ve had that happen. My cat Blue could use a young friend, but my husband isn’t interested – but if one just “showed up” that would work! I’m so glad you have so many beautiful pictures of Pam! She will never be forgotten. Jan in MA
I’m saddened for your loss but know you did the right thing letting her go in peace instead of wondering what ever happened to her. We’ve been through this many times, and it never gets any easier. I’m hoping all these messages bring comfort to you at a sad time.
Sorry for your loss, Mary. You did the right thing for sweet Pam!
You gave her the best life and the best ending, Mary! She was such a cute cat. I think she is pictured in one of the patterns I have from Country Threads. Think I looked at her more than the quilt. Take it easy today! You did the right thing!
Mary I am just so sorry about your little Pam! We love these people so much that when it’s time to say good bye we hurt something terrible even though we know it’s the right thing to do. I am sorry that you have to go thru this heart hurt…again. God bless you for being the most wonderful furry petson guardian.
And treasure all of your memories , knowing that Pam was a happy cat!
So sorry for your loss. I’ve had many cats over the years and it is never easy to have them put t down. But like you I tell myself they are no longer suffering. My cats have mainly been strays who made a home with me. I like to think they lived their best life with me – spoiled and safe.
You did the right thing Mary! I’m sorry for your grief. Pam was obviously a special kitty.
Rest in peace Pam. What a good life you must have had at Country Threads! I remember shopping the quilt shop many times only to find a cat sleeping amongst the fabric! I sure miss Country Threads!
Oh Mary, my heart in braking for you. Those Pam cards are just adorable! So many wonderful memories.
Sending you hugs.
Very sorry you had to let your sweet girl go, Mary. She was a beauty… and a lucky girl to find a home with you. Take good care of you now.
Feeling sad for you…..it’s always so hard to say goodbye to our pets.
Mary, my heart is aching. Making “the decision” is so heartbreaking, even when you know it is the most loving thing to do. Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos of Pam and her story.
Praying that God grants you comfort and peace
I recall someone telling me years ago that we are the pets guardian and that we know when their time is up with us. That we have to make that “difficult decision” for them and not for us. One of the hardest things to do for those we love. Thank you Mary for all those loving years you took care of Pam!
So sorry but ou did the right thing Mary. No need for animals to suffer. God bless.
I am so sorry about Pam. It is heartbreaking but making the decision to let her go is sometimes the kindest thing to do. Pam was photogenic. All the sweet pictures will bring a smile to your face and help heal your heart.
Mary,I’m so sorry for your loss. You did the kindest thing possible for Pam. You were brave & kind & most of all loving. Looks like Pam had an amazing life. You gave her all the love you had. It’s apparent from the care you give to your babies in all shapes & size that you give your all for each & every one. You invite others to bring their babies to visit & provide a wonderful time with your babies too. Take care & give yourself all the time you need to grieve.
So, so sorry for you to have to say good-bye to your beautiful feline companion, Mary. What a sweetie Pam was. Thinking of you and remembering my own special kitty who passed in my arms over 20 years ago. We don’t forget them. ~ Suzanne in Michigan
I’m so sorry for your having to take Pam to the vet. So many beautiful comments, though, and as Stephanie so eloquently said, ‘Sometimes heartbreak and kindness go hand in hand’. RIP Pam, such a good kitty.
So so sorry for your loss. You gave her a life filled itch love, I’m sure she’s looking down on you with gratitude. RIP Pam
The checkerboard quilt on the chair either in muted colors or aged a bit–I will now think of it as Pam’s quilt. What a dear companionship you to shared. It is nice to think about such a sweet creature.
When I had to make that decision, my veterinary technician daughter asked me if I was keeping her alive for me or her. I still expect to see her in all her favorite spots. I am so sorry you had to make that decision too. But I’m sure the Cat Distribution System has a surprise in the works.
Mary I’m sorry you loss Pam. You gave her a good life and show compassion by letting her go in dignity. You were with her in the end and she thanks you for that. You won’t have to worry where she is and if she is ok.
Thanks for sharing the great cards and pictures of Pam and her life on the farm.
I am so sorry for your loss She is free now
It never gets easier to lose a pet That shows love and strength
Anita
Mary, if the Distribution System brings you another cat, I feel that you’ll get a new place in your heart for that cat, and Pam’s place won’t get filled. Each cat has a special place they occupy forever. I have many cats in my heart.
I lost my cat Rusty to cancer a month ago, and thought that I was too old to get another cat. But my daughter said she’d take over if I couldn’t care for my cat. A few days ago, we found a four-month-old calico girl at a rescue adoption event. I was looking for an older cat, but the System gave me this one! I named her Millie.
Oh Kathy, it’s so hard to let our furry kids go, but you did the best possible thing for Pam by giving her a peaceful release from a faithful life in your loving arms. And yes, in the cat hierarchy of life, you’ll probably get two to fill Pam’s spot in your life and your heart! That’s the way it is in farm life!
Mary, so sorry for your loss! As pet parents we have to do what is right for them and not let them suffer! She had the very best home any pet could have with you! You loved her and knew when it was time to not let her suffer! To have had her by your side for so long was incredible. I hope your memories will help you through your grief!
The sending you hugs and prayers from Michigan ❣️
RuthAnn
I’m so sorry for your loss. Pets leave their footprints on our heart.
I’m so sorry Mary.
So sorry about Pam. You gave her so much love. I have been in the same situation several times and it is never easy. Thank you for rescuing her. So many need to be rescued. Bless you!
Glad you did what was best for Pam. Remember when Mortie showed up? I no longer have a pet because it is too hard when they die. However, any stray is lucky to find your home.
Yes ma’am, that’s the only thing that matters. You gave her a more comfortable passing and were there with her . You were such a good mama to her and she would thank you if she could! I treasure my Pam cards, so beautiful, such a beautiful girl. You are in my prayers 💔
Sending hugs and prayers to you.
Been in your shoes Mary cats, dogs, cows, horses. Had to face it all with our much loved animals. Thanks for sharing your grief my hearts feels your emotions. Pam was a beautiful cat. My cats too just show up. Just had a 3 or old tomcat fixed and now he is a happy boy in a home where we love him. His name is Tom of course. Love your blog.
One of the hardest things about loving pets is letting them go. So sorry about Pam but I’m sure you have many happy memories about her. I love the sewing cards & what a great memory.
Hugs and prayers Mary! So sorry for your loss.
I am so very sorry. That is always so hard. I think I have one of Pam’s cards. Such a sweetie.
Rest In Peace, Pam and big hugs for you, Mary. She will always be remembered through your cards. Such a beautiful cat. God Bless…
You gave sweet Pam a great, long life. I’m sad she’s gone but feel you did the right thing in easing her out of this life.
Mary, So sorry for the loss of your kitty Pam. 😢
Mary, I think all of us grieve with you as we know when our pets depart they leave a hole in our hearts. I suspect you will experience as I often have when my cats passed away a sense of them weaving around your legs as you go about your day. It is true! She will come back to make sure that you are OK. Then she will head over to Rainbow Bridge.
Well, I thought I was going a little crazy, but maybe it’s common. Sometimes I feel a cat walking on my bed when I’m trying to fall asleep, and it’s not Scarlett, our “distribution system” cat, she’s sleeping on a chair. Or I see a tail leaving the room while Scarlett’s sitting with me. I’ll feel a cat-length of warmth along my back, where Miss Kitty used to sleep. Lots of strange things like that, often enough to make me wonder. Recently my husband said “sometimes I think I see Miss Kitty’s tail go through the door, or I feel her walking all over the bed like she always did at night.”
So I don’t know why it is, but four years later, I think she’s still here, being her sassy little self, teasing us.
Mary, what you did for Pam today is pure kindness and compassion, heartbreaking as it is right now. You stayed with her to the end, a loyalty that you and Pam shared and matured with. Thank you for showing us once again what a wonderful human can be. Biggest hugs and many smiles to you as you remember your time together.
I am also so sorry for the loss of Pam. I know you took the best care of her since you first got her. It is a hard thing to do, but was the right time for her to go. Many hugs to you.
Mary, I ‘m so sorry for your loss.
Something’s in life never get easier.
Mary, me again. You did make the right decision so Pam could go in peace 💕🐱💕. Love the cards you had printed. Do you have a huge stash of them? I’d buy a set if you do
Hugs to you too 💕
Henners – I will look
Mary-I am feeling every moment of your pain. We all love our furry babies, and it’s especially hard when we have to do what you were brave enough to do. I always tell myself exactly what your thought was in your note today….that another little soul will find it’s way to you, and you will respond with kindness and love. Thank you for being you and for sharing. Better days will arrive soon. In the meantime, keep the happy thoughts of Pam that I know you have for her.
Lovingly,
Peggie Riccio
Fremont, NH
Mary so sorry to hear you had to make this difficult decision. I’ve already hit tears streaming down my cheeks. Bless her in kitty heaven 💕💕💕
May you find comfort with your decision 💕
You made a kind decision for Pam. She was telling you she was ready. Our daughter’s two 14 year old cats have moved in with us while she is working on her Italian refugio, and I am a nervous Nellie as they adjust to their new home. So far so good. Ella likes the window and my lap, and Sam likes to hide under beds.
Mary, I’m so sorry for your loss of Pam. She had a wonderful home with you.
Hugs to you. She had a wonderful life with you and lived it to the fullest. Elliott said she looks like his kitty, Maggie. 🩷♥️🩵🐱
RIP, dear Pam..
So sorry! Pam had a great life in your farm! Hugs!
Mary, my heart breaks for you.. losing a pet is so hard
May the memories of her fill your heart with joy
Pam in MI
I had to do the same thing to our cat just two weeks ago.
They deserve to die peacefully rather than day by day. Bless you.
Mary, I am sending many hugs. The Pam cards are a precious memory of her treasured life with you.💙🙏💙
I’m so sorry you had to say goodbye to such a good kitty. She looked so sweet.
I am so sorry, Mary, though glad you found her and were able to see her off to the Rainbow Bridge rather than wondering forever where she went. She had a very good life with you. Sending you hugs!
Sometimes heartbreak and kindness go hand in hand. I am sincerely sorry for your loss.