So far

Bug catching

things are progressing. Cordelia will, for the most part, play with Figaro. Phoebe is the last to warm up, but with my play-therapy, she's gotten to where she will not seek refuge on the cat tree all the time. She's also seeming to warm up a little, too...the kids this a.m. have been playing a bit more.

I've not had the greatest week, a lot of stress over the kitty situation and hardly seeing McCheeky. He came today and we had a good petting time. I tested to see if it would be possible for me to pick him up. I lifted him up a teensy bit, and then decided it would be good to try. My neighbor lady thinks he's not doing well, and I hadn't seen him for a few days. I worried he had died outside. So I got the carrier, but as soon as he heard the door clink he was off.
So I haven't been feeling the best, and the anger I have towards the people who put McCheeky in the situation he's in just bubbled over. I started crying. I just can't believe that he will likely die without any dignity or feeling loved. I was ready and would've called the clinic right after shutting the carrier door-to take him in to have him put down. He sounds very congested, he tried to purr but had a hard time doing so. He's stiff, he's probably loaded with stuff.
I just wanted to do something right by him. He makes me think of Bella Mae so much, and it cuts open my heart a little bit. He deserves so much more than what he was given in this life.

So I'm right in that this will have to be a two-part deal. I'd have to go over and love him up while Bill got the carrier ready...and try to manage to keep a hold on McCheeky until I got him into the carrier. Likely easier said than done.

Today has been a good day so far...the girls seem to be becoming comfortable. Phoebe isn't running away so much-but still hisses.
I hope I have time for a nap today.