Diane, I was so sorry to hear about chip. I know how hard a choice that must have been for you. I had to make that same choice last year with Hoover. And I don't think he left us right away, we kept thinking we saw him for the longest time. Occaissionally we would hear the sound of his paws running across the linoleum in the kitchen.

I have lost of lot of people in my life, friends and relatives, and children of friends but this one, though not a stranger, touched me too inside a little more than usual.

Right now Sandy is doing okay, because she is busy doing what she does best. Organizing, planning, taking care of her guest, and trying to hide her feelings and stay strong for others. But in a few weeks, when the guest and friends are long gone, I will be there to help pick up the pieces. And to listen. I spent today, writing in advance, several cards and letters of what I will say. Words of encouragement for over the coming weeks, and I will send one every few days, when I can't be there. This way, being written down while I'm thinking clearly, I won't forget.

Thank you all for your thoughts, words, and prayers. I will let her know they are being directed her way.

Bye for now.

Mary/Maya