Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Grayce


We were walking through a residential neighborhood to get to church one Sunday morning almost 2 years ago when I spotted the most beautiful cat lying on the sidewalk.  When I bent down to pet her she barely moved and had the softest fur ever, but I noticed I could feel her bones through her coat.  Right then and there I told the Chef, 'No church for us today.  God put this cat in our path and we're taking her with us.' So off he went to knock on a few doors and find out if she belonged to anyone.  Finally a guy said she just wandered the neighborhood and he didn't think she had a home, so the Chef jetted off to get a can of food while I waited with her as she peered through the bushes into a backyard occupied by a large dog.  We think it used to be her home and she got left behind when her family moved, as was very common when the recession first hit and people abandoned their pets.

When the Chef returned and opened the can she zipped over to the back of the truck and hopped into the hatch.  We closed it and took her home.  She never cried or tried to get out once, instead finishing her snack and stretching out on the leather seat in back.  The Chef named her Grayce--for her gray fur, that she was found outside our church, Grace Community Church, and that it was God's grace that put her in our path.  She was a constant companion, a light as a feather little pal who slept next to him on the pillow and softly touched his cheek repeatedly in the morning to get him to wake up.  She could play a mean game of chase the feather and was often found racing up and down the halls in between the leaned picture frames when she wasn't sitting right next to the Chef while he worked on his computer.

Three days ago she went missing and someone called yesterday to say they saw her get hit by a car a couple doors down from his parents' house where he's been staying temporarily while the restaurant gets up and running.  The Humane Society confirmed it late today so I don't think I'll be posting anything else this week.  

It might seem crazy to some people, but Grayce was like family to us and we are devastated and guilt-ridden over what happened to her.  She was much more than just a cat or even the average cat; I'll admit I even tried to get him to trade my two cats in exchange for her on more than one occasion (sorry Monk and Lil).  She was special.  The Chef is particularly tossed up because, as an avid cat lover, he hadn't had a cat for many years since his last one passed away.  Grayce filled a hole in his heart, reawakened his love of cats, and they were best friends.  It was the story of a guy and his cat.  As dramatic as it sounds, we'll never recover.

I'll see you sometime next week. Cat lady over and out.

83 comments:

Anonymous said...

It's not crazy and it's not dramatic at all. They're part of your family, it's as simple as that. You and the Chef are in my thoughts and prayers.

Claire Kiefer said...

I am so sorry. It's really devastating. Losing a pet is awful. Will be thinking of you both. xoxo

annelise said...

Oh no :( As soon as you mentioned her in the past tense, my heart sank. I am so sorry for your loss. Like Katie said, pets are members of your family. Take your time to grieve and I know from losing Eddie earlier this year, it does get easier. You and the Chef are in my thoughts. xxx

marjorie rose said...

I'm so sorry to hear about Grayce's passing, Carrie. This is so hard. I feel for you and the Chef.. Pets are so much more than just pets. I wouldn't know what to do if I lost my Snow.

I'll keep you both in my prayers..in the meantime, take good care.

Tiffany Kadani said...

I am so incredibly sorry for both of you. I'll tell you what I told Sabine when she lost her cat: I think pets are the hardest thing to lose because they represent the tender side of us, the nurturing caring side and when we lose that we feel as if we've lost that part of us. Love to you and the chef.

Catita said...

i am so sad to hear that, you write so well it brings tears to my eyes because we all know that if you care for your pet than it is part of your family and these little creatures really know how to win your heart. I have mu chihuahua-terrier mix for no 8 years exactly and she is like my daughter, I got her in Canada and brought her to the Netherlands 8 months after moving her. Those 8 months without her were long and lonely and I can only imagine the pain it is to loose your little companion. My love is with Grayce, you and Chef, so deeply sorry.
xoxo

RosaLovesDC said...

Girl, I am thinking of you, Chef and Grayce right now. Hugs!

Anonymous said...

I'm truly sorry for your loss. I was so sad as I scrolled down to read. Just recently lost my baby too of cancer. It does get better over time.

Diana Mieczan said...

Ohhh, sweetie. I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and kisses your way. Muah

Judy C said...

Love given and love returned is never wasted and always to be mourned when lost. I still miss my Shadow. I will feel with you for a while.

Ashleigh said...

Oh Carrie I'm so sorry for you and Chef. What a beautiful name and sweet story behind it. My eyes are filled with tears for your loss. *Hugs*

jen said...

From one crazy cat lady to another, I am sorry for your loss.

Polly said...

Oh you poor things, I am so so sad for you. Take care xx

fshnonmymind said...

Aww, I'm so sorry that you and the Chef lost such a wonderful family member. She was beautiful and obviously brought so much joy to your life!!

Danielle (elleinadspir) said...

I almost didn't read this post, and have been scared to email you all week. I was afraid this might be the news. I have tears in my eyes for you and chef. I am a crazy cat lady who loves my cat like a kid. I cry just thinking that obe day she will be gone. I am so so sorry. I hope you guys know how much better you made her life and how happy she must have been. Sorry to have not checked in with you, I was selfishly hiding from something that scares me rather than holding your hand through this. Bad bad friend. I'm here now, thinking of you guys and sending hugs. She was a lucky kitty to have found you guys. Xoxo

Anonymous said...

So sorry for your loss - a fellow cat lover.
Carrie

Lacey in the City said...

Oh Carrie, I am so so sorry to read about the loss of Grayce! Pets become a part of your family, so you are not being dramatic at all. Keeping you and Chef in my thoughts. Xoxo

Closet Fashionista said...

Oh my goodness, that is so sad! I'm so sorry for your loss :( But Grayce will always be with you in your hearts!
My thoughts are with you guys *big hug*

Anonymous said...

Carrie, anyone who has loved a pet totally understands your devastation. Pets are like family members, they are like our children. You saved her. You made her little life wonderful. Don't feel guilty. It was an accident. It was not your fault or chef's fault. It was just her time to go. Thinking of you both. xo

Micah said...

Such a sad ending to a wonderful story. Grayce was blessed to be with you and Chef for two years. I'll be thinking of you during this tough time.

Isabel said...

aww im so, so sorry! sending hugs xx

Courtney Erin said...

I am so sorry Carrie. I've had the misfortune to experience the deaths of three cats in my life and each and every one of them has ripped my heart out and left me grief stricken for weeks and even months. Last year about three weeks before I left for England my baby boy Conkers got sick and spent 3 days in the hospital and I was so terrified that I might never see him again or that he might get sick while I was away that I was almost paralyzed. All I can say is that you are all really lucky for the time and joyful things you shared together and that there are so many more kitties out there who need love and care and it sounds like you both have so much to give and, if nothing else, that's a truly wonderful thing.

xoxo ~ Courtney
http://sartorialsidelines.com

Taylor said...

Take as much time as you need, don't let anyone tell you you can't have these emotions! She had a better life with you and Chef and she will always be with you, and I'm so sorry! Love you!

Kristen said...

this brought a tear to my eye. loosing a pet is devastating. hang in there cat lady and chef.

xo
Daisy

Jessica @ Beautify My Life said...

I am so so sorry for your loss. We lost our dog last month, and it was unbelievably heartbreaking. My thoughts are with you and the Chef.

Jamie said...

I'm so sorry sweet girl!! That is devastating!! There are no words :(

It's weird b/c I had this cat show up at my door step yesterday and it has a collar that reads : I ♥ bed in rhinestones but no name tag. She was so thirsty and hungry so I fed her and she's now taking residence on my porch. I think she's an indoor cat that got out but I don't know where she lives and I haven't stopped worrying about her! Her owner is probably worried too. Kitties are so sweet and like little people. It is so heartbreaking when something bad happens.
Take all the time you need. I wish I wasn't leaving Saturday or I would come down this weekend and take you out. I promise when I get back I definitely will though.
xoxo

http://www.glamlatte.com

Secondhand Stella said...

I'm so sorry! This story breaks my heart. I have two cats and know how you feel.

She had two wonderful and special years with you, and it might be hard to think of this now, but at least you can be grateful for that :)

I will keep you in my thoughts.

Lisa Griffin said...

I'm so sorry! From reading this blog I know how important these cats are in both your lives and although I'm a dog owner, I believe these adorable, lover, creatures are very much a part of our family. I'll be thinking of you both!

Debby said...

It is so sad when a pet dies. SOmething that just tears your heart apart. So sorry. They are family.

Lisa - respect the shoes said...

I'm so sorry, Carrie. My heart goes out you and your Chef.

Kim said...

Oh my heart hurts for you Carrie. It's not dramatic at all. Pets are family members. I am so sorry for the tragic loss of your little one. You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Corks + Caftans said...

I just can't even... I don't know what to say.

I'm so sorry. These little guys and girls are so incredible, to think that when they have to go we don't even get to say goodbye--I have to believe we're the last things they think about. It just breaks my heart in a million pieces.

I can barely look at Eli right now--if animals aren't proof we have resilient hearts, that we're able to love them knowing we'll outlive them, mostly, have to say goodbye, someday... she was a little gift and I'll shed a little tear for her today.

take care. you're in my thoughts.

xx
C

Jessica said...

Oh, Carrie, this breaks my heart. I never had a cat growing up, but Dave's cat quickly made his way into my heart. When I first started reading this post, I could imagine Bacon doing the same quirky antics. And I felt a pang of sorrow when I continued to read. Losing a pet is losing a member of the family. Big hugs. Love you!

Holli said...

Sending gentle hugs and good thoughts from one coast to the other. Cats are awesome little beings. Yes, family they are...

17 Perth said...

Oh Carrie, I am so so sorry. Our animals are our like our children so I completely understand you guys mourning the loss of your loved one. Based on the picture and your description she was an amazing little cat and she loved you guys very much. I pray you guys find some solace in this hard time.

Both you and the chef will be in my thoughts and prayers.
xx

justagirlLaura said...

Ok, so I literally had to stop reading because I started to cry and I do not want to be a blubbering mess at my desk. I'll finish reading the post when I get home and can cry all I want.

However, I did want to send my love.

I am so very, very sorry about this, Carrie. It is heartbreaking and I am sending you both love and prayers.

bailey said...

So sorry. Thank God you came across her when you did to give her a wonderful and happy life. Feel better xo

Lynzy said...

Carrie (and chef)
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Animals quickly become part of our life and melt our little hearts. Being a mommy of two kittens I can not imagine what you are going through. My prayers are with you...
xo

Raez said...

Oh no! I can only imagine the anxiety and paint to lose a family member, even if a pet! I hope everything turns out alright my dear!

xx Raez

A Crimson Kiss said...

Sending you both all my love.

Unknown said...

oh honey i'm SO sorry to read this - i've been hit with 2 devastating things this week - and i LOVE my 'pets' like no other - so i UNDERSTAND that type of love you have - u take time to cry, pour your emotions out, go out next door to ur neighbors house and GIVE IT TO THEM - now's the time - get it all out - cry, scream, laugh, veg, .. DO YOU babes!!!!

my heart is with you lovey! - a prayer will be said today for ur furry friend! - i'll pray for Buffy, Snowy, Riley, and our birds to welcome Grayce with treats!

hip hip gin gin said...

Oh God. Carrie I'm so so sorry. I was so hoping that she'd just wandered off and someone had picked her up and would call soon. I'm so sorry she is gone.
I'll be praying for you and the Chef (and sweet Grayce too). Losing a family member (and they absolutely are family members) isn't something you ever get over. My first dog Tristan died over five years ago and I still miss him. Sending you both all my love, hang in there.

Anonymous said...

We totally understand.
I would be a basket case.
Hugs.

Josie said...

All my love and thoughts go out to you and the Chef -- and to Grayce as well. Please let me know if I can do anything at all, Carrie.
xo Josie

Lisa Lisa Lisa said...

I am so sorry! What an amazing companion you had. Let me know if there is anything I can do!

danielle said...

aww girl, that's devastating. my dogs are like my kids. if i lost either i'd freaking lose it. prayers to the kitty and i'll be thinking of you and chef :(

Victoria said...

You poor thing---I am so sorry this happened. My husband and I recently took in an abandoned cat and even though we are new cat owners, I can't imagine how we would feel if this happened. She sounds like such a sweet animal and definitely beautiful as seen by your pics. I am so so sorry.

Unknown said...

That's so sad, I'm so sorry about your cat. =(

Poppies and Sunshine said...

I am so sorry to hear about your loss, Carrie. I know how special this type of family member is in a family. I hope you both find peace in this time and joy knowing that you were able to have Grayce in your life like you did.

xoxo

stylenuggets said...

Cat Lady -I know exactly what you're going through. We lost our first cat, Lady, when she just disappered one night and never came back. For the rest of the year I scanned every house and street till I had to finally give up.

FRANKIE HEARTS FASHION said...

Oh Carrie I am so sorry....You and the chef and Grayce have been in my thoughts since she went missing. Losing a member of your family fur or no fur is never easy. Sending you hugs and love. xoxo N

Lori said...

Ahh Carrie ~ I saw your post over on FB and my heart broke for you both. Losing a member of your fur family is so hard ~ I know when Sasha passed away I had not cried that hard since Dad passed. Take the time you need and know that I am here if you need me. xo

Anonymous said...

I am so, so sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one (even a four-legged one) is absolutely heartbreaking. I'm sending prayers, support and positive thoughts your way.

Peetzi Jen said...

Whimper!

I was not expecting the story to end this way.

There are no words. My heart is BROKEN for you and Chef.

Love and prayers!
xoxo
Jen

Tracy D said...

Oh Carrie I am so sorry. I cried for days when I lost each of my cats. You all were blessed to have found each other and now sadly, that makes the loss that much harder. RIP lovely Grayce..she appears to have been a beauty and special soul.

Stacey said...

thinking of you and the Chef Carrie. I have a dog and would be devastated if anything were to happen to her...Hugs to you. XX

Anita said...

I'm so sorry! ):
http://xtheperfectmess.blogspot.com

Danielle Moss said...

Oh I am so so sorry that it was confirmed. I was hoping + praying that you would find her. My heart has been BREAKING for you. I know how much you loved her. Sending you lots of love. I know that you are not feeling ok at all right now. It will definitely take time but you will heal. You will be in my thoughts + prayers.

Love,

D

Keira Lennox said...

Oh Carrie, I'm so sorry to hear this. Sending you lots of love.

Marcie said...

My thoughts are with you and Chef. Understandably this is a very hard time.

BonBon Rose Girls Kristin said...

It is not crazy at all.I am so so sorry. I've been there and it just plain sucks.

MarlaD said...

Hugs, love, and a little prayer to you and the Chef. I've been there, and there's not much anyone can say to make you feel better, only time and distance can begin to help. Just know a lot of people out there are symbolically holding your hands. It's awful, and there's no way around, only through. The saving grace is those of us who love our animals as we do experience something that, even though we know will be bittersweet at some point, enhances our lives beyond all measure. Grayce found a keeper family and she knew it!

LyddieGal said...

I am so sorry. The loss of a pet is devastating, and I understand how you and the Chef feel. I don't think it is over dramatic to say you will never recover, it is completely true.

CHOCAROME said...

I'm soooo sorry for you loss, I know how you must feel at this moment.. :(

By the way, I really like your blog style, it's unique and I read your blog so often and I just wonder..if we could follow each other.. But even if your answer is “no” I’ll be still your reader ♥

with love,
http://chocarome.blogspot.com/

I hope you'll feel better soon.

Blue said...

Oh my God, I am so sorry. Losing someone is always horrible. I hope you feel better soon.

alli/hooray said...

Carrie! I wish I had the right words. I'm a cat lover too and this broke my heart. I'm so glad there are nice people out there like you guys - hope you'll take comfort knowing you gave her a good home & life. Big hug to you.

kimbirdy said...

oh carrie, i am so so sorry. that is just devastating, and i totally understand how very much a part of the family our furry babies are. i can only imagine how much your heart is hurting right now and i just want you to know that i will be thinking about you and sending you all my love. please find some ways to take care of yourself right now and let me know if you need anything.
xoxo

Faith said...

:( i am so sad to hear this ... if that were my cat i would be feeling the same thing.

Kelly-Ann Maddox said...

I'm really sorry for your loss. Pets are totally part of the family. <3

Marissa said...

I'm so sorry, Carrie! Loosing a pet really is like loosing a family member. Just try to be thankful for her falling into your lives, even for such a brief period of time.

Ashley said...

I am so sorry for your loss, I completely understand what it's like to lose a pet. I am still devastated over the loss of my dog. Take as much time as you need to recover, we will be here for you when you come back to blogging.

-Ashley
http://breakfastatsaks.blogspot.com

Joyti said...

Carrie, not crazy or dramatic at all! I have a princess and a dictator cat myself, and I know I would feel the same way (your Grayce looks like my dictator cat, whose name is Lenin).
Take care,
Joyti

Barbara von Enger said...

Devasting. Terribly sorry to hear this awful news. You and Chef must be very sad.

Nadia said...

Oh Carrie. I just read this now. I'm so sorry for loss. Sending lots of love your way.

Take care. xo

Nadia

TheChambrayCountess said...

Oh my gosh, that is so terrible and I feel so sorry for your loss! I hope you and the Chef are remembering the good times with G and that it helps you heal.

Callie Grayson said...

I am so sorry to hear about your beloved grayce! I am crying as I sit here in my workstation at work, I am going through a tough time with my pup (she is very sick right now) so I can relate that they are family! all I want to do is curl up with a cosy blanket with her and cry and wish her better.
I am sending you big hugs and hope your pain eases.
xx
callie

Meghan said...

I am so sorry to hear - I hope you and Chef feel better soon. Losing someone you love - a person or an animal - is always so hard. Grayce was so lucky.

Miranda said...

Hi, Tracy D actually sent me your way. I totally know what your going through,I am going through the loss of my cat right now and devastated over it. She is on day 5 missing and I know something is wrong because she just wouldn't do this. I am still trying to have hope but its fading with each day.I have had such an emotional few days and just wondering when I am not gonna randomly burst into tears. Im so sorry you had to go through a loss too :(

Unknown said...

Aw, Carrie. My heart breaks for you and the chef. Little Grayce sounded like one amazing kitty that provided endless hours of entertainment and joy for you both. I love the story though - of how she got her name, how you found her and how much she immediately loved you guys. So so sweet.

Hang in there my friend!

Hot Pink Combat Boots said...

Oh....I'm so sorry to her about grayce. She was placed in your path for a reason, and I'm so glad you found each other. I loved how she could play a mean game of feather.

Sending happy and comforting thoughts your way.
Michelle

My Heart Blogged said...

My cats are like my family. I'm so sorry for his loss. I hope he can remember that he gave her a new life, and a great home. I am a crazy cat lady, and tonight I will appreciate my cats a little more than usual.

drollgirl said...

oh girl. i am so sorry. i lost two kitties this year and it just about did me in. the pets bring so much love and joy and happiness. they are generally so much more fun and so much more lovable than a LOT of people. they give so much, and it is so hard to lose them.

i am sorry i am late in writing this. i haven't been getting to blogs so much lately. hugs to you and your man.

torrie said...

Ahhhhh, Carrie.

I'm just catching up on your posts, and I'm so sorry to hear about this.

So sorry. xoxo

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails