Lately

If you missed it on social media over the past week, my sweet cat Otis passed away on the 4th of July, very unexpectedly. It was incredibly difficult to accept that it happened and say goodbye. Each day that goes by, the pain of the loss is replaced by the good memories and an even deeper love and appreciation for his brother, Milo. Milo has never been one to snuggle, but he’s been sleeping right next to me every night, even so much as being the little spoon sometimes 😉 
My sister so thoughtfully flew me down to Raleigh for the weekend, to spend some time with them and have a much-needed distraction. The getaway came at the perfect time – I was able to have more time pass from the day he passed and it was so good to have a couple days of “normal” life again.
 My brother-in-law virtually kicked us out the door on Sunday night to go to something fun, just Kate and me. We pulled ourselves together (which felt odd because I rarely do my makeup, hair, or wear anything other than athletic clothes when I’m there) and headed downtown in search of dessert and/or drinks. We walked around a little bit and wound up at Bittersweet, the cutest desserts and drinks bar. If you live in the area of ever visit Raleigh, we both recommend it! It’s the perfect spot for a date night or girls night out.  
It’s nice to get back into a normal routine, now that I’m home. I have a lot of work to catch up on, but I’m thankful for the flexibility of my job that allowed me to take the time that I needed last week to deal with what happened. 
I don’t feel like I’ll ever be able to say thank you enough to all of you who have sent condolences, well wishes, shared personal stories of loss and hope, and everything else. You all surrounded us with so much love that it was overwhelming. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Your kindness and love has been incredible and I will never forget it. The world can be so dark (especially with all the headlines lately), but you guys reminded me that there is hope and light, even in the midst of pain. 

Hi there!

Lauren Bown Lifestyle Blog is an online destination where I share my personal style, beauty finds, and bits of life in hopes to inspire other women to feel good in their skin and find the beauty in the ordinary.

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27 Comments

  1. 7.11.16

    Where is your maxi dress from? So cute!

  2. 7.11.16

    My cat is one of my best buddies in the history of ever, and he's my first official "adult" pet. I have lost a few pets in my lifetime and it's never easy – but I know losing Angus will be the toughest for me… I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that Milo will help comfort you. Sending warm cuddles and thoughts you way! ox And your sister is the best!!! So happy you have each other, no matter the distance.

    • 7.13.16

      So sweet, thank you! That was my same situation for Otis – first adult pet and a very deep connection. It was so hard to say goodbye, but I've found so much peace in knowing that he lived a great life. Hope you have many more happy years with your Angus!

  3. 7.11.16

    I know I don't know you, but I was so sorry to read that Otis had passed. It is so hard to lose a pet, they really are members of our families. I'm glad you had a nice weekend with family. Big hugs to you and Milo!

  4. 7.11.16

    My thoughts are with you.

  5. 7.11.16

    I'm so so sorry for your loss. I have a cat who is my baby so I can't even imagine how much your heart hurts!

    Her Heartland Soul
    herheartlandsoul.com

  6. 7.11.16

    So sorry for your loss. Pets are like family, and it is never easy.

  7. 7.11.16

    With each passing day, you will feel a little better- losing a beloved pet is so painful – you have your work and a great support system and I know you will continue to heal. Thank you for the beauty and positivity of your blog.
    Love from a cat lover in Georgia 🙂

  8. 7.11.16

    I am so, so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is never easy. 🙁 He's waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge now!

  9. 7.12.16
    Unknown said:

    Lauren, so sorry about the passing of your kitty. Our pets are part of our family, and I feel so very sad for you.
    It's true that with time, the sad feelings will be replaced with all the sweet and funny memories of them.

    Take care,
    xxx,
    Izabela

  10. 7.12.16
    Tabitha said:

    I'm so sorry about your kitty. It's never easy to loose a beloved furry friend. It was really nice of Kate to fly you down- you looked like you were having a good time.

    • 7.13.16

      I did have a great time – it was the perfect distraction. Thank you!

  11. 7.12.16

    I'm so sorry to hear about Otis xxx I hope you and Milo feel better soon I send all my love xx

  12. 7.12.16
    Nikki said:

    So sorry for your loss. Unfortunately,I know how it feels. I had my beloved cat Jordan for 10 years and he passed away unexpectedly just before Christmas in 2013. I still miss him and sometimes think I see him out of the corner of my eye. Pets leave such an imprint on our hearts! 💙

    • 7.13.16

      So sorry to hear that. It's so hard saying goodbye, especially when it's unexpected.

  13. 7.13.16

    Thinking of you during this difficult time Lauren! Hope you are feeling better a little bit day by day! <3

  14. 7.16.16

    Oh man. I know I'm late to the party to send condolences but I must say that I'm so so sorry. I can't imagine losing the cat I have now. I have loved seeing pictures of either Milo or Otis on the blog. Hopefully, a new fun cat can enter life pretty soon, not to replace but as an addition.