Earlier this week I had to say goodbye to my best buddy for the past 16 years: my kitty, Ganymede.

He was the last one remaining from his litter as his brother, Figgy – who was my grandson’s kitty – passed away a couple weeks ago. Their sister, Callisto – who lived here with Ganymede and me – passed away back in 2022.

“Ganny” was my “work-from-home” colleague during COVID, and neither of us was happy about the recent Return to Work order that sent me away from home for more than 10 hours each weekday. Still, we had our crafting time. He was always beside me when I sat on the couch and crocheted or knitted, and he was a regular companion when I spent time in my sewing room.

Last night I went back to my sewing room and made a small purse out of some fabric scraps. I was missing him terribly as I cut out the pattern pieces and sewed them according to the pattern, but the process was helpful in soothing my heart.

I’ve had 4 cats as an adult, and saying goodbye was heart-wrenching, every time. It’s part of the price that we pay for having them in our lives, loving them, and enjoying their company and companionship.

When Figgy passed on, I received his roomie, Lena, who never did care for my daughter’s dogs. Miss Lena cannot replace Ganymede, or Callisto; but she is a loving and gentle soul who is patient and sweet.

I will mourn Ganny, re-mourn Calli and remember with fondness and an earlier sense of loss, Miss Jingles and Pyrex.

Our beloved family pets remain in our hearts, and I’d like to think that they take a little piece of us with them across the rainbow bridge.

The purses I make this weekend will remind me of this sad week, but also of so many wonderful memories of my sewing buddy, Ganny.

The pattern, pictured above with my pieces, was a blessing as it was simple, straightforward, with clear and easy instructions, making it the perfect project for a period of grief.

I’ll experience episodes of grief again when I pick up a knitting or crochet project and miss Ganny snuggling in next to me as I work on the piece.

Grief is a process, and a journey we cannot avoid. I’m grateful for the memories I have of my pets and my projects, and for the solace of my fabric and yarn stashes.

Wishing all who grieve, solace, peace and healing.

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