Yes, it will grow easier. I have been writing a eulogy for my father this afternoon and I had to smile at some of the memories even through tears. I may run out of fluids soon! Jonah was the most wonderful cat and was very happy living with us, I know. Every night when I came home from work he'd be waiting on the doorstep (inside!) for me. He would chirrup with excitement when I opened the door then follow me by his private route - involving weaving around glass tables and sofas - to the kitchen where I would feed him something - it didn't matter what, just the fact that I fed him was important - and sit down on the sofa with my g&t. When he'd finished what he was given he'd come and jump on my lap and watch television if it was of interest to him - other cats or little prey animals - or just sit and purr gently. He'd put his front paws onto my tummy and rub my face until he felt settled and then curl up on my lap until supper time. Every night.
Already I am thinking happy memories of him. I only cry once or twice a day. His successor will have big furry boot to fill though. I remember one time when it snowed. Jonah came out for a walk with me but he hopped in my footprints through the snow rather than make his own. I stepped scrunch, scrunch, scrunch and Jonah followed, only stepping where there was a Jeremy pawprint.
Once, through some oversight, we left him out overnight in the snow. He was a kitten - or very young, anyway - and presumably fooled us he was in the night before. But the next morning we looked into the garden and Jonah rose out of a large flowerpot, where he'd spent the night, with a hat made of snow! He had quite a bit to say about irresponsible parents but we felt so bad we spoiled him rotten with treats so I think he forgave us.
Cat memories...
