oh dmcamera, I'm so sorry for your loss. As a cat owner, I know how that feels as I have lost more than one cat to some unforeseen circumstances. The tragedy really breaks the heart and the pain never truly goes away. Even though it's fairly easy to find yourself another furry partner, it's never going to be quite the same.
Still, I salute you for being such a good 'mum' to them for so many years. You must have an incredible bond with them that no one else can quite understand.
Thanks for your kind words. Yes, in my lifetime I have had to say goodbye to 8 cats and 2 dogs. Each one was special, and as you you know, the pain of missing them can return at any moment. The oldest one I had was 21! As you say, those who have not had the pleasure of living with pets have no idea what it is like to lose them.