Thank you all so very much. Your words mean more than you possibly can know. There have been many tears - I just included to quote to remind myself of all of the good times. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
We did go to San Diego, and are still here. I'm sure everything will hit again when I get home, but I've tried to focus on the joy in life this week. I do think going ahead and leaving was a good thing (my DH had to go, and I don't think it would have done me much good to stay home and mourn - which is what I would have done). And I understand from the multiple friends who are staying with my other kitty in shifts to make sure he doesn't get lonely that he's doing OK. That's a relief.
CA
Most days in life don't stand out, But life's about those days that will...