Well, I'm writing the letter that I knew one day I would have to write. My oldest boy Chomper has crossed the Bridge. I can't even cry right now. All I feel is numb. Chomper was a MF boy. I got him from the pet store in April of 1996. He was always very laid back and mellow. Never gave me a minute's worth of trouble. He always ate whatever food I was currently trying without a fuss. He seemed to know what the litter box was for from the first time he saw it. During play time, he was content to wander for awhile and then come back to me to cuddle. His favorite toys were stuffed animals. It didn't matter what kind. Just so it was a stuffed animal. His leaving us is so sudden. He was fine Saturday nite when my daughter fed him. I went in tonite to start their play time and found him in the bottom of the cage. He had already crossed to the Bridge. His cage mate Nipper was looking rather puzzled as if she couldn't understand why Chomper wasn't playing. When we first brought Nipper home, Chomper welcomed her and bonded to her quickly. They have been cage mates for the last three years. I now have to be sure to lavish lots of attention on her so she won't feel his absence too much. I bathed Chompie one last time and wrapped him in his favorite blanket. We will be having him cremated. Sandee..please watch out for Chomper. He will arrive carrying a stuffed animal and his blanket. He is really partial to sweet tea so if there is any sweet tea, please show him where it is. Sandee, please look up Buddy and Digger and have them meet him. Buddy and Chomper were cage mates for about a year and a half so Buddy will be glad to see his brother once more. Digger never met Chomper but I know they will get along great. Chompie, we will miss baby. You are now a shining star. Run sweet boy and play to your heart's content. Mommy will see you when she gets to the Bridge. I love you so very much my sweet little boy. Take care everyone and don't forget to love your fuzzies while they are here with you. You never know what tomorrow will bring. Pat L. [Posted in FML issue 3368]