Christmas Day 2024 with Bette

I actually had a good Christmas Day overall. We did the usual Christmas things, like go to Manny's brunch with the in-laws, open presents, and see friends. The only thing that was different was that people had to say goodbye to Bette. My mother-in-law, Maureen, and my brother-in-law, Kyle, both said goodbye to her today. They won't be seeing her again. 

We have decided that Bette will be euthanized on January 7 at 4:30 pm. CST. We have invited our friend Bradley to join us, and he has accepted. I also hope to have Jeff on the phone during the procedure. I still need to tell Bradley about the day and time. 

Kerry is depressed about Bette. And I'm not exactly in the best frame of mind, either. But by keeping this blog I hope I will remember the good times. My sister reminded me today of one of the fun memories: the time that Dorrie, her cat, came to visit our house and got introduced to Bette. They weren't exactly the best of friends, but I'm glad that Alison was able to bring Dorrie to our home at a time when she needed to. Alison said to me that she still talks to Dorrie, and she told Dorrie that Bette will be joining her soon. I know that gives her comfort. In some ways, it gives me comfort, too.

Alison had a more difficult situation to deal with. She found Dorrie already passed away; she didn't get the chance to prepare or say goodbye. At least Kerry and I get the chance to do that. 

I said to Kyle today that I'm not sure if I have the strength to do this. He told me that he thinks I do because I have a lot of support around me. And he is probably right about that: I have Kerry, Bradley, Rachelle, Jeff, and Maureen. All of us will mourn Bette. I'm sure Alison will, too. 




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