Friday, December 6, 2013

Sweet Dreams Yoko

April 1993 - December 2013

Even tho things looked like they had stabilized for Yoko this week, last night and today she was having trouble swallowing her food and water.  The tumor in her mouth was growing rapidly. Often she would gag after trying to eat.   Rather than wait until this got any worse we chose to help her to the Bridge this afternoon.


This is so hard - last year we had our Christmas card made up showing an old photo of Chica and Yoko and my husband and I, in Florida 19 years ago side by side with a photo of all four of us in 2012.  Here it is, not quite a  year later, and both dear kitties are gone along with our Joey who left on Dec 7, 2012.   I must have known somehow that it was the end of an era.



We got Yoko as a kitten at the local shelter  to keep Chica company but Chica would have none of it. Yoko was the only cat we have had since she was a kitten.  All the others came to us at six month or older. Yoko was tiny and her eyes were still blue but grew to a big ladycat of hefty size.  Her feet seemed so big but she grew into them.





She was our Buddha cat - doing everything very slowly, methodically and focused.  She ate deliberately, savoring and chewing every bite.  She even made biscuits slowly, with her eyes closed in a blissed out state of contentment.  Being with her, taught us patience - to sit, and not rush around, to be still and savor each moment.
Yoko in one of Judi-bug's hats


 Her disposition was quiet and gentle altho living with Chica picking on her so much, Yoko learned to growl menacingly if she did not want to do something.  It kept Chica at bay and as we took in more cats, Yoko mellowed out with age, even grooming the other youngsters.

She favored my husband over me.  He could get her to do anything but I would  get the growl if I tried to give her a pill, clip her claws, etc. while Don could do all that without a peep out of her.  She loved to lay on his chest with her paws on each shoulder and her body stretched out full length down his like a fur tie!


She preferred to make snug hideaways in piles of blankets, laundry or bedding.  Once I picked up a pile of dirty laundry to put in the washer and I knew she was in it even tho I couldn't see her - it was very heavy.  Sure enough she had curled up inside the clothes.



Even since she was a tiny kitten, she loved the Christmas lights on the tree - she would sit on the floor or chair next to the tree and just stare into it for long periods of time.  She enjoyed the unwrapping of gifts and would make the discarded paper another place to make a snug bed.

We buried her on our land with a bouquet of fresh pansies and the Santa hat all the kitties are wearing in this year's Christmas card - Yoko will forever be our Christmas kitty. We will see you soon at the Rainbow Bridge Yoka Doke!

Thank you all for your kind words of support thru this wild week.  I could not have done it without you.  I may take a bit of time off from blogging and Facebook but not too long. We have other kitties to tell their tales.

Thank you Ann of Zoolatry for this lovely forever badege.


104 comments:

Mickey's Musings said...

We are sad to hear Yoko has crossed the Bridge.It is good that she had a wonderful,long and happy life with you and that she knew she was loved.
We send comforting purrs as you come to terms with the passing of this beautiful long time companion

Purrs Georgia and Julie,
Treasure,Tiger and JJ

Quill and Greyson said...

What a beautiful post to say goodbye to such a sweet lovely lady. We are sending our purrs and hugs to help ease your heartaches.

I only wish there was more I could say my friend.

Memories of Eric and Flynn said...

I am sorry that Yoko has made her journey to the Bridge. It is so hard to have to make the decision to help our loved ones on their way even though we know it is the only one. She will be meeting up with many of her friends now and be healthy and young again.
Purrs and hugs to all of you.

Annie Bear said...

I loved reading this about Yoko. What a wonderful kitty and what a wonderful, loving and long life she had with you! I am very sorry for your loss. I know the time is never long enough. It's so hard to lose them and miss them. I wish you much comfort during this time.

Marilynn said...

Ohhhhhh =(

We have all been purring and praying for all of you, and we'll continue. Losing one of your li'l jewels is very hard to take, I know.

Love,
Grace & Company

Jenn said...

We are sad to hear that your beloved Yoko has gone over the Bridge. What a lovely cat she was.

Sending hugs and purrs your way. xx

GLOGIRLY said...

We're so very sorry that your sweet Yoko has crossed the bridge. We're sending comforting purrs and hugs.
Bless you, and bless sweet Yoko.

~Glogirly, Katie & Waffles

Old Kitty said...

Oh darling Yoko! We are so so sorry that you have left us. The heavens have gained a bright and beautiful angel star. Run free and healthy now. We send you and your family many hugs and purrs. Take care
x

Percy the Cat said...

We are so sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and purrs!

CatInTheFridge said...

So many tears for you because we know how hard it is. You were blessed to be able spend your lives together. Even though it hurts now, all those years together were worth it. Purrs to you. Love, Alana & Crepes.

Cat and DOG Chat With Caren said...

Our hearts are breaking, we are deeply saddened to hear of the news of Yoko having crossed the Bridge.
Your memorial to her was beautiful, thank you for sharing so many vivid memories with all of us.
May God give you strength in this most difficult time.
With much love and sympathy,
Caren and Cody

Team Tabby said...

We are very sad to hear it was Yoko's time to cross the Rainbow Bridge. May you take comfort from having her in your life for so many years and the many happy memories.

Purrs,

Mindy
Moe
Cookie
Mike

Anonymous said...

We are so sad to hear the news of Yoko. What a beautiful, heartfelt blog post you wrote. Just lovely and a wonderful tribute to Yoko. Please know that we are sending you comfort. Take care.

Hugs, Bugsy, Knuckles and HH (Lou)

Katnip Lounge said...

My heart just aches for you, I was so hoping for a small miracle of a little more time. It's always so hard to say goodbye, it's our lot, I guess.
Sending love and purrs from the peeps and kitties here at the Katnip Lounge.
xx Trish

My Mind's Eye said...

Oh Dear Mom and I are so very sorry to read about Yoko's trip to the bridge. Run free and happy and chase lots of butterflies
hugs madi and Mom

Timmy Tomcat said...

We are saddened that sweet Yoko has gone over the bridge. We are all purring hard to give you peace at this difficult time.
Thanks so much for sharing a bit of her life and purrsonality.
Until that day we all meet again in the land of warm sun puddles and the best noms ever watch over us from on high dear Yoko
Purrs
Timmy Dad and Family

Big Piney Woods Cats said...

We are so very sorry! We know what it is to loose furry ones, we lost two this year. They will be at Rainbow Bridge (Mittens and Mistre) along with Patches to greet your sweet Yoko. Big hugs,

Calico Mom Toni and the girls, Squirt and Miracle

Jacqueline said...

We are so sad to hear that precious, beautiful Yoko has gone to the Bridge; we understand how difficult it is to part with such a dear member of your family...Our sincere condolances over this terrible loss and we will keep your family in our prayers...Wishing you all comfort at this time of great sorrow...hugs and love...J, Calle, Halle, Sukki, Mommy Cat, Daddy Cat

katsrus said...

I am sorry for the loss of your precious kitty. Hugs and purrs.
Sue B
Charlie,Cashew,Garfield,Tubby

Mariodacat said...

I am so very very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful girl. Our hearts are breaking for you, but you gave her your final act of love to help her cross the bridge so she would not suffer.

Everycat said...

We are so sorry that beautiful Yoko had to leave. This is a lovely tribute to her.

She will have the sweetest dreams of the wonderful life you gave her and she will keep an eye on you all for a while.

Farewell Yoko, you were one very special lady

Sending love and rumbly purrs to you all

Mungo & The Ape xx

Gemini and Ichiro said...

We are so very sorry to hear about Yoko. Our purrs to you.

www.shelter-cats.com said...

Thank you for sharing Yoko's wonderful life with us. I know her passing has left an enormous hole in your hearts. Hope all those sweet memories bring you comfort.
With sympathy,
Maggie

Laila and Angel Minchie said...

Our hearts are breaking for you on the loss of your beautiful girl, Yoko. Such a beautiful tribute to Yoko. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. RIP sweet Yoko.

Julia Williams said...

So very sorry for your loss. Yoko was a beautiful soul and your tribute post to her is just as lovely as she was. Sending many hugs and purrs to you all.

Fr. Tom Fish said...

Our candle for Yoko went out just a little while ago, so we know she's safely over the Bridge. What a life of love she had with you all! Cheri, that was a beautiful tribute post for a wonderful ladycat, a very special Christmas kitty.

Purrs,
Mom Julie, Tinker, Anastasia and Chopin

Andrea and the Celestial Kitties said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Our hearts go out to you.

da tabbies o trout towne said...

We extended our sincerest sympathies to your dad and mom Yoko, we know how devastated they are. God's speed to you pretty girl; and HIS strength to your family. Your mom has written a beautiful post for a beautiful girl. With hugs and loves from all of us
xoxoxoxo

JC said...

I am so sorry.
What a wonderful life she had with you.

XO,
JC and the Purr and Fur Gang

Ellen Whyte said...

Oh Cheryl I'm so sorry. I wish I could give you a hug. I hope that knowing Yoko had a wonderful life with you helps you through this sad time. We're thinking of you and Target and Guido send purry furry headbutts.

Brian's Home Blog said...

We know how hard it is to have sid goodbye to your beautiful Yoko. She indeed knew love like so many kitties can only dream of and she gave that love back to you. We all send you our best love and hugs. Thnk you for sharing Yoko with all of us, we felt like we knew her. Run free dear girl.

Our Rainbow Friends said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know that Yoko has left behind many good memories that will always remain in your heart.

ANGEL ABBYGRACE said...

We feel so lucky that we've been able to share these past years getting to know each one of your cats. I was always amazed at Chica and Yoko. Yoko and those magnificent eyes. Cheryl I am do sorry she had to make the trip OTRB. You made the right choice for her, but saying it is hard is not adequate for how hard it was for you and Don, even doing so with all the compassion in your heart for Yoko. I know you are relieved she is out of her physical illness and free. Free to be welcomed by Chica and her long lost siblings, both birth siblings and adopted siblings as well as all of her friends, including my beloved Abby. I will keep you on my heart this Holiday as you too will feel the same bitter sweetness I do. Thinking and praying for you both.

Kitties Blue said...

You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this time of grief. It is so difficult to lose a loved one (animal or human) near a holiday. You certainly made Yoko's last days very happy for her. All our past nine kitties and two dogs are buried in our yard. Purrs and hugs, Lily Olivia, Mauricio, Misty May, Giulietta, Fiona, Astrid, Lisbeth and Calista Jo

Summer at sparklecat.com said...

Our heart is breaking for you and your husband - losing a kitty is especially hard when she practically defines a piece of your life. I think it was Yoko's own mindfulness that taught you to be mindful of her illness and to let her go at just the right time. Purrs to you.

Cathy Keisha said...

I’m here to pay my respects to Yoko. *bows head* Sleep tight, Yoko. Your humans loved you enough to let you go. Conforting purrz to those left behind.

Angel Prancer Pie said...

We are so sorry to hear about your beautiful Yoko. Our Princess had the same thing and our hearts go out to you. We'll be keeping all of you in our purrayers. XOXO

Ramblingon said...

Your post made her an even more loved darling in my heart than she was. All of your angels were.

Yoko is and was a dear member of the family a nd deeply loved. I will miss knowing she isn't with her family but I know we will all meet again by and by. Xxxooo

Ramblingon said...

Your post made her an even more loved darling in my heart than she was. All of your angels were.

Yoko is and was a dear member of the family a nd deeply loved. I will miss knowing she isn't with her family but I know we will all meet again by and by. Xxxooo

Pattyskypants said...

We are very sad that her time with you had to come to an end. It is heartwarming to see how much love you shared! xxoo Patty & Bhu

Cats Herd You said...

What a lovely tribute to a very special cat. We are sorry for your loss. We are sending purrs, headbutts, and hugs to your whole family in this difficult time.

Oskar said...

This is a beautiful tribute to Yoko. We have an elderly tortoiseshell girl that's slowing down & I needed that reminder to appreciate her during this busy time.

We are so sorry for your loss, and hope you find peace.

Hugs,
Pam & Oskar

Anonymous said...

Please accept our deepest sympathy over the passing of your sweet Yoko. She truly was a remarkable kitty girl from your tribute. May she run free in Summerland & may all your memories be a comfort to you now & always.
Sincerely Sherri-Ellen & Nylablue
The Purrfect Pad (WP)

meowmeowmans said...

Our hearts are breaking for you, because we know how much you loved your dear, sweet Yoko. What a difficult yet loving and brave decision you made to help her to the Bridge. Thank you for loving Yoko so much, and so well, for all these years. Surely you will all be reunited one day at the Bridge.

With love, and in sorrow,

Kevin, Tracey, Moosey, Gracie and Zoe

Oui Oui said...

We are so sad to hear Yoko has passed over the bridge. We remember the birthday post you did with the song "Oh Yoko". It was always one of our favorite posts. Run free and easy, dear Yoko. We are purring for all your loved ones left behind. Our deepest condolences.

The Island Cats said...

We are so sorry to hear about Yoko. We send you comforting purrs, headbutts and hugs.

Wally, Ernie, Zoey and mom Sue

dArtagnan Rumblepurr/Diego Hamlet Moonfur said...

Such a beautiful and special girl, I am so sorry for your loss. Fly free, sweet Yoko.

Maggie May said...

One can certainly not deny Yoko had one of the fullest lives a kitty could have. Not only that, she had one of the best lives a kitty could have because she had you guys as parents. That said, it doesn't make it any easier to say goodbye. We are sending you our very best comforting purrs during this very sad time.
(((Hugs)))
Maggie May and The Creek Cats

Bernadette said...

Join some of my best friends, Yoko, you are in very good company there.

Robyn and The (Mostly) Badass Cat said...

We're so sad Yoko had to go. Sanjee and Mini will no doubt meet her over the bridge to show her way to her brightest star. All of us at the House of the Mostly bBlack cats send love and purrs for your sadness.

Jans Funny Farm said...

So very sorry it came Yoko's time. It is always hard to let them go. Hugs and purrs.

Kiril Kundurazieff said...

Daddy Kiril and I wish to express our condolences to you all for the loss of Yoko.

Purrs and Purrayers

Elvira Mistress of Felinity

The Opinionated Pussycat
http://www.opinionatedpussycat.com

Shawn said...

I'm so sorry and me heart aches for you. You have many years of memories to hold close during this difficult time .

The Swiss Cats said...

We're so sorry for your loss. We send you comforting purrs and gentle headbutts. Purrs

bichonpawz said...

I am so very sorry for your loss. May Yoko rest in peace.
xo Chloe and LadyBug

Clooney said...

Oh so sad to hear this. It was beautiful that you put the Christmas tree up for her to see before she left. Such a sweet post for your Buddha girl and how well you both loved her. Wrapping you in light and love and sending you gentle purrs.

Be Well Sweet Yoko

Photo Cache said...

we are so sorry for your loss. our thoughts are with you.

emma and buster

Anonymous said...

We are sorry to hear that Miss Yoko had to go. We know how sad you must be. Hugs and loves to you. We will be praying that your hearts will be comforted.

Love,

Jackie and Mom

Vanessa Morgan said...

R.I.P. beautiful Yoko. My heart is with you and your family.

Kea said...

(((Hugs))) and universal Light to you all. Such a beautiful post for her...We're sad she had to leave, but are so glad she had a wonderful life with you.

We really hope and purray 2014 brings you more laughter than tears, more joy than sorrow.

Peace and Blessings, and godspeed, Yoko.

Kim, Nicki and Derry

Marg said...

We sure are so so sorry that Yoko had to go to the bridge. It is just way too sad. It sounds like she had a wonderful life with you and Don. And we also believe that you absolutely did the right thing.You all take care.

ZOOLATRY said...

I send you my love, and my prayers.
Ann

Unknown said...

Your post is so filled with love for Yoko. We are so sorry to hear of her passing, but know her beautiful self will be welcomed at the Bridge. Real love is letting go when the time is right - if only it were easier. Lots of hugs and purrs, Jobi and Fisher

Anonymous said...

We're so sad for your loss. Yoko was quite brave until the end but that tumor gave her no choice but to move to that peaceful place over the Bridge and bless you for helping her make that journey. Losing a pet is always hard but somehow more tough at holiday time...particularly if as you say she was a lover of Christmas and all that means. We send hugs of understanding....and great sorrow.

Pam and Sammy

The Daily Pip said...

I heard about sweet Yoko from Brian ...I'm so sorry for your loss. She sounds like such a wonderful, loving, and gentle soul ...

Run free, Yoko ...

Hannah and Lucy said...

We are so sorry your lovely Yoko decided it was time to make the crossing over Rainbow Bridge and can only imagine what a big hole she will have left in your hearts. We are sending gentle head butts and many whiskery kisses in the hope you will know you did the right thing for your sweet lady.
Love Hannah, Lucy & Mum Sue xx xx xx

Lisa Kolosey said...

Wow, such a hard year for you two... May you find peace in knowing she is now a part of everything and may you find joy in new beginnings.
~LisaCo9T

Anonymous said...

What a lovely tribute to your sweet Yoko. We are so sorry that she had to go to The Bridge. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace sweet Yoko. Leaving lots of warm, gentle hugs for you sweet friend.

Tama-Chan, Benny, Vidock, Violette, Ollie, Heloise, Momo, Ryu said...

We are so sorry that you lost your beautiful girl and companion of so many years. You clearly gave her an absolutely wonderful life.

Purrs,
The Chans of The Poupounette

CATachresis said...

This is a wonderful post and sweet tribute to Yoko. We are so sorry for your loss. She will be dancing at the Bridge now! Sending hugs and many purrs. Austin and Caro xox

Kjelle Bus aka Charlie Rascal said...

Sending lot of comfort (((purrs))) and huggies ♡
R.I.P Yoko

The Monkeys said...

We are so sad about sweet Yoko! She was a wonderful girl! We all send our purrs

SailorEdgar said...

A wonderful tribute for a remarkable cat. We had to make the same decision for our beloved Hemingway. Hugs from us and purrs from the kitties. We learned about this on Katie's blog.

Mishkat said...

We are so sorry to hear about Yoko's passing! Sending you and the rest of your family many purrs and much love.

XOXO from Franklin, Dobby, Tasha and Mom Katie

Ivan from WMD said...

We are so sorry that Yoko had to leave. It's been such a sad time for many of us but your family especially. We will keep you in our thoughts at this time of healing.

Catherine said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. A little piece of our heart goes with our furry friends when they leave us.
Sending much love and warm thoughts.
xo Catherine

Cara n Crew said...

oh, we are so sorry to read this about Yoko. Rest in peace, little one.
Sending purrs and prayers of comfort-

Pip, Smidgen, Minnie, Hollie

catsynth said...

We are so sad to header about Yoko's passing. You have our thoughts and sympathies. It sounds like she had a wonderful life as part of your family. And we loved the tribute, including the kitten pics of Yoko.

Love, Amar and Luna (CatSynth)

Unknown said...

We are truly sorry for your loss. Hugs & Lots of Purrs we are sending you and family to help get through this!! We know this wasn't an easy decision to make, but a loving one!!
God Bless,
Loretta & Kitty

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear about your sweet Yoko. What wonderful memories you have of her and what a wonderful life she lived with you!

Karen Jo said...

I am so very sorry that you had to help Yoko to the Rainbow Bridge. You gave her that last and kindest gift--relief from trouble and pain. The cats are purring for you and I send hugs.

E. Smith said...

Beautiful post about a lovely family member. I'm so sorry for your loss.

animal lover, quilt lover said...

So so sooo sorry about poor Yoyo!!!!
All of us will have that time when it is our time to go to the bridge and be back with our beloved dogs and cats!! You will see her again!!
RIP Yoyo!!

CCL Wendy said...

Yoko sounds like she was a wise and gentle little soul. She graced your life for so many years, and now she needs a rest. You must do something very right, though, to have such longevity within your kitty family. I think it is love that keep them here, and ultimately love that takes them when their time is inevitably over.

I'm sorry for your loss, though you have so many wonderful memories to tide you through this time. Yoko will always be with you in your heart, mind, and in spirit.

A few Good Cats said...

We just heard the sad news and wanted to add our condolences for your loss. Yoko had a good long life with you and you will always keep those happy memories. We send you comforting vibes and purrayers.

san said...

We came here from Katie's blog. We are very sorry for your loss but we know Yoko is frolicking at the bridge and will be with you forever.

Andrea said...

I'm sorry for your loss. Yoko was such a big part of your life for so long. Now she and my Sweet Lady Butterfly are up there waiting for us.

Terri said...

We are sad to hear about Yoko. We know she had a wonderful life and a pawsome welcoming committee at the RB. It is so hard to let our fur babies go. Hugs and purrs from our house to yours.

Andy & Tater said...

We are so sorry for your loss. Your post was a beautiful tribute to your dear Yoko. Purrs and Hugs, Judy & Cali, Andy, Tater and Shelly (C.A.T.S)

Anonymous said...

I am sorry for your loss. Rest in peace, Yoko.

Angel Gracie=^o.o^= said...

With a very heavy heart and mom typing for me through tears I came to visit and let you know how so so so sorry I was when I learned that sweet Yoko had left for the bridge. I know there are no words that can help but know that Yoko's many friends love and will miss her so much. Forever she will be free of pain and the limits that life had put on her. It isn't good by but until we meet again. Run free sweet friend.

The Florida Furkids said...

The greatest gift of love you could give Yoko was an easy and painless passing. We're sending soft, healing purrs and prayers to you at this sad time.

Love,

The Florida Furkids and Mom Sharon

animal lover, quilt lover said...

Our kittens make holes in the walls while we sleep, that is how wild there are. They are Bengal cats. Google them!!!! LOL

Tamago said...

We are so sorry to hear about your precious baby Yoko. Sending warm thoughts and soft purrs to you..

Fozziemum said...

We are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful Yoko..we too know the pain and especially at this time of year as we also experienced.What a beautiful baby and no words can help,but know we send our love and deepest sympathy.
Love Dinnermintz Pickles Cleo Marbles and their Mum Bev xxx

Connie - Tails from the Foster Kittens said...

purrs of healing and comfort for all who loved Yoko during this difficult time

John Bellen said...

A sad day for all in the Wildcat Woods; I wish it hadn't happened so near to Christmas, but such a loss would have made Christmas sad regardless of when it happened. Please accept my condolences. Godspeed, Yoko.

JB's Big and Small Worlds said...

Lovely post for a sweet girl. Sending comforting purrs from us all.

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

I came back from a week away to see your sad news. My heart aches for you and I share your suffering. I know Jasper would be there at the bridge to welcome sweet Yoko. Run free sweet one and I send love to your house. Carol x

Debra Taylor said...

I am so sorry for your loss of Yoko. Yet it's so good to read about all she taught you about slowing down and the rest.

I am certain she is grateful you helped her be freed of physical pain.



Debby in Arizona
http://homelesscatcare.blogspot.com/

SquirrelQueen said...

We are so sorry to hear about Yoko. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Run free Yoko.

All our love,
Cindi Lou & The Kitty Krew

Donna said...

I am very sorry. :( (((hugs)))

Maggie from Stillness at Cherith said...

I'm so very sorry to hear about your sweet girl.
Sending gentle and caring thoughts your way.
Maggie

Rain said...

What a beautiful tribute to sweet Yoko. Thank you, Cheryl, for sharing all of this love with us all. Wishing you peace.

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