Three, very special to me, have died in the same year.

First my grandpa to bone cancer

Second, my  favorite ELA teacher to some illness passed on to her while caring for her son

Thirdly, and most recently, my family's cat at 13 years old. This photo from months ago. I can't believe I never took any recent pictures of her either

Her fur started thinning and she stopped eating but continued to drink water and juices from the food we tried to get her to eat. Then it became difficult for her to stand. Then she died in my father's lap, across the United States. She's been through so much over the years. At least she died peacefully I hope.

Now let me vigorously wipe these tears off in peace before someone notices