It's a Cat's World

Excitement in the air!

2012-02-07T07:24:00.000-06:00

Something is going to happen today, I can feel it in my bones. Meow! Actually, Mandy is bubbling with excitement, so that can only mean one thing—someone is coming to visit. Mandy keeps telling Stella Auntie Julie is coming, so that must be the cause for all this excitement. Someone is coming to disrupt my life and schedule, but I know ajulie, so I will tolerate this for Mandy’s sake.

There is some sad news to report. A family that lives nearby has lost their kitty, Sunshine. She is a small orange tabby, like me. Ok, well I’m not small, but you know what I mean. Anyway, she has run away from home, and they are desperately looking for her. They even stopped by our house yesterday to see if we’d seen her. Mandy has a picture of Sunshine and she is a very pretty little thing. I only hope we can help find her. Peyton and I have been calling for her, and will continue to do so today, if we can go outside. I know when I ran away from home I was scared and alone, I can only imagine what poor Sunshine must be feeling. I hope we can help find her soon.

It has been so lovely outside, and Mandy has had the windows and doors open all day. We have stayed outside until we are finally so used to it, we can come back inside to nap. For a while, Peyton was taking his nap outside, but now that he is used to the open doors again, he’s come back into his bed.

Well, I think I will go chase Peyton.
Elway

Do Not Disturb!

2012-02-02T07:28:00.000-06:00

All the joy has left the house--or so it seems to this lonely cat. All we ever hear is “Kitties! Be quiet!” or “Do not wake up the baby!” or something similar. Every morning I like to greet the world with a song, and do you know what I hear? “Peyton, do not wake the baby!” At night when I sing my good night song, I hear the same thing. I would think that Stella would like my songs. Mandy sings to her; Stella talks and sings; I think I should be able to talk and sing. Mandy still lets me sing when I am with her, just not in the bedroom when that tiny thing is sleeping. But I think I should be able to sing wherever, whenever and to whomever I like.

Mandy fed Stella this morning, and now she is playing in her bed. She is talking and wants some attention, I think. Normally she goes back sleep, but this morning she is flopping around in that bed of hers like a fish out of water. Silly girl.

Mandy has been letting us play outside, because it has been so nice. I love to play outside, but that tiny person has been invading my space outside too. Is there no place that is sacred to a kitty? Mandy brings that tiny person outside and they walk around the big tub. Sometimes Mandy just sits and lets the tiny thing look around. Occasionally I will sit with them, and point out my favorite things to Stella. She likes to watch me talk and it amuses me to entertain her, when she is in the right mood.

I keep asking to go outside but Mandy says it is wet this morning. She says if it clears up I can go out, but I watched the weather this morning and it may rain all day and for a few days! Sad. I am going to go pout in my bed and watch the sprinkles of rain splash in the big tub.

Oh look! Red Lightening Bug! I will plan my attack on him instead.
Peyton

Tired People

2012-01-30T07:14:00.002-06:00

Mandy and Sam are exhausted, but that’s OK because I have found out that their lack of alertness has major bonuses for me. For example, yesterday morning Sam woke up and fed me breakfast. But when Mandy got up a few minutes later, she fed me breakfast too! I mean score! Two breakfasts in one day! Sam told Mandy he’d already fed me, but it was too late, I was already chowing down on my second breakfast!

On Saturday, Mandy let Peyton and I play outside for hours because Stella was, well, let’s just say rather fussy. Mandy allowed us the freedom to be outside so that we didn’t have to listen to her. I think Mandy would have liked to been outside with us. She looked out longingly at us several times, but she didn’t make us come in until it was almost dark.

Sam and Mandy have gone to bed earlier too. So, Peyton and I have snuggled up with Sam and Mandy in bed trying to keep them warm and snuggled in during the night. Stella has been waking up overnight more than she had been, so it is my job to keep Mandy’s spot warm. Last night Peyton helped to keep her spot warm too. When Mandy came back to bed, she snuggled up with Sam, Peyton and I, and we were a big happy family snuggling and sleeping.

Well, I am going to enjoy some Mandy snuggles before she starts getting ready to face the day. I think a few minutes of snuggle time will be good for Mandy—it has nothing to do with the fact that I miss snuggles.
Elway

Black Cat

2012-01-20T07:07:00.000-06:00

The last few afternoons have been beautiful, and Mandy has opened the door for us. Peyton normally rushes outside like a crazy cat, but the last two afternoons have been different. Yesterday Peyton didn’t go outside at all. Apparently the big tub lady came and scared Peyton into the closet, so after she left Peyton didn’t come back out. So, I enjoyed some alone time outside.

When Mandy let us out the day before we met a new friend—Black Cat. I thought Black Cat only lived inside, and did exactly as I did. However, this Black Cat moved of his own free will and had a mind of his own! He was small and scrappy. I growled at him, and of course Peyton, friend to all creatures, tried to make friends with this new and strange cat. Mandy saw our encounter and can rushing outside. She scared Black Cat off. He may be scrappy but he was also shy around humans. I came quickly to Mandy and let her pick me up. I wanted to show that scrappy cat that she was my human and I was not likely to share. I allowed Mandy to carry me inside and I purred the whole way into the house. Mandy went back outside to bring Peyton in, but he sat at the screen and called to Black Cat. That brother of mine is entirely too trusting and I keep telling him to be leering of new cats. He never listens to me though.

This morning it is rainy and neither Peyton nor I are eager to go outside so we are playing inside. Mandy says we are being too loud so we voted for a quick break so I could snuggle Mandy for a bit. However, as soon as Mandy moves to refill her smelly morning drink I will pounce on that brother of mine!
Elway

Busy Times

2012-01-18T07:35:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was gorgeous! It was simply beautiful outside and Mandy opened the doors yesterday morning after the sun came up, and left them open practically all day long! I played outside. I sang outside. I napped outside. It was simply amazing on a winter day in the middle of January! Mandy says I should be thankful I am a Florida cat. She says other cats are traipsing through the snow—whatever that is.

Last night Red Lightening Bug came out to play! I chased him from one side of the house to the other. I even attempted to chase him up the walls. I was able to squeeze in an excellent workout. Mandy has been attempting to work out every day, but Stella does not always s allow Mandy to finish her workouts, so I feel as though my time to stretch has been cut short. This work out was invigorating!

This weekend was extremely relaxing. Since it is tax season, Sam woke up and went to work on Saturday, but after Mandy got him out the door, she went back to bed. Elway and I curled up on the bed with her and we all slept until Stella woke up. It was very late in the day though because the sun was up high in the sky! It was fun to snuggle Mandy though.

Sam and Mandy made some more dinner for us. We had been eating store bought food for a few days, and I will be honest, I was happy to switch back to our homemade meals. Sam and Mandy did a great job this time, and Elway and I clean our plates with every meal.

Stella has been sleeping really way these last few days. She has let Mandy and Sam sleep all night and even sleeps though Sam getting ready to go to work. This morning she is still sleeping, and it has given us a wonderful time to just be with Mandy--and to catch up on our blog.

Well, perhaps I should wake Stella up for Mandy. Stella needs to eat breakfast soon, and I think I should wake her up. Perhaps I can wake her without getting in trouble? Mandy always tells me not to wake up the sleeping baby, but maybe she would not mind today. I probably will not try as I am thoroughly enjoying my Mandy time.
Peyton

Caged Lion

2012-01-10T07:10:00.002-06:00

This morning I feel trapped, like a caged lion. It is not fair for the king of the jungle to be treated in such a fashion. This morning it is my desire to go outside, but Mandy says there are puddles in the back yard that are preventing me from enjoying my outdoor kingdom. Mandy says I track in enough dirt that I do not need to bring in muddy paws. I told Mandy I would wake up Stella if she did not let me out, and do you know what she did? She picked me up and snuggled me, but would not let me out. I could handle being trapped inside if I could play with CT, but Sam tore him apart and put him away yesterday. Now my bed is back in its dark lonely corner, and Christmas is over.

Not only is Christmas over, but tax season is in full swing. Sam has started working long hours already. He does not work as late as he has in the past, but he sure rolls out of bed early. I enjoy the early morning hours. Elway and I can play in the house and run up and down the stairs in the dark. It adds an element of suspense to play tag in the dark. It is much more challenging and exciting! Plus we do not wake up Mandy when we play outside of the bedroom.

Well, I am going to see if Mandy will let me out yet. Yesterday Sam told her not to let me out because of the water. Mandy told me if I could wait until lunch time she would let me out, and then she left the door open! I enjoyed my time out side and am hoping for another promise if I consistently play with the door. Mandy is much easier to break down, and since Sam is busy working I am sure I will eventually get my way.
Peyton

Happy 2012!

2012-01-05T13:51:00.002-06:00

A new year has begun, and it seems like it will be a good one, albeit different than any other. Stella has turned our lives upside down. Before Stella, Mandy loved us and snuggled us so much we had to hide from her, now we have to seek Mandy out and snuggle up to her in order to fulfill our snuggle quota of the day. When Mandy feeds Stella in the afternoon, I snuggle up to Mandy. Peyton steals his snuggles during Stella’s early morning feedings.

Mandy has started to undress CT. I have enjoyed sleeping under his twinkling lights, and I’m sad to see Mandy take him down.

Tax season is upon us, and it doesn’t appear that Mandy will be joining Sam at the office like in years past. However, I can tell Sam is starting to feel a little stressed. This morning he woke up really really early and he didn’t go back to sleep. He eventually woke Mandy up when Stella stirred. He pulled Stella out of bed and changed her while Mandy got ready to feed her. Sam then got ready and left for work. After he left, Mandy went back to bed and slept until a more reasonable hour. I sure hope Sam gets some rest tonight, because he needs it.

Stella is napping which is a relief after yesterday. She screamed so long and loud yesterday that we eventually crawled out of hiding to try and help Mandy calm her down. Mandy says Stella might be teething, and as soon as Mandy started exploring that possibility Stella calmed down. However, Mandy was happy when Sam came home and he snuggled Stella. I can’t imagine what teething is, but it must be painful. Poor tiny person.

Well, Mandy is undressing CT some more, and I better go help.
Elway

Thank you notes

2011-12-30T08:37:00.003-06:00

Dear Santa Paws,

I am terribly sorry I was unable to write before Christmas. Mandy was so busy I was unable to use her computer. She hid it away and I couldn’t find it. However, I wanted to say thank you for the fluffy balls, treats and pumpkin you left us. Peyton was very nervous that you would forget us or pass us by because Mandy, Sam, Mom-With-Cool-Toys and Shrimp Dad stayed up so late. So thanks for stopping in even though they were late in going to bed.

I tried hard to be a good kitty all year, and I promise to try hard to be good again this year. Sometimes it is very tricky to be a good kitty--the desk chair is so nice to scratch. Mandy says good kitties don’t scratch furniture, but it feels so nice to stand and stretch and scratch. But I will attempt to be good and leave the chair alone. I try to make up for it by guarding the new tiny person in our house. I sleep in the bedroom while she naps, and I make sure nothing and no one bothers her. It is my attempt to make up for scratching the chair.

Anyway, thanks for stopping by.

Elway

Dear Mom-With-Cool-Toys and Shrimp Dad,

Thank you for the new and very cool toys you gave me for Christmas. I know one was supposed to be Elway’s new toy, however, I have claimed them both as mine. I enjoy throwing them up in the air and catching them. Mandy will not let me take them into the bedroom at night because of the bells but one day I will sneak them in so I can play with them all night!

Thank you Shrimp Dad for checking for ticks outside, and for allowing me to go in and out as often as I pleased. It was wonderful to have someone to be my personal slave and I will be grateful for you to fill that position whenever you come to visit.

Peyton

Christmas was a very busy time, and since we were unable to blog while we had a full house, I was unable to tell you that Mom WCT, Shrimp Dad, Bomom and Bonedad were in town over Christmas! It was a very busy and fun filled time. It has been a few days since everyone left, but Elway and I needed to recoup after all of the company. Mandy has been busy cleaning house, doing laundry and playing with Stella. The tiny person has started making funny sounds. She can be left in her chair or on the floor and she makes sounds to entertain herself. While I cannot understand what she saying, it pleases me that she can now smile at me, and make a happy gurgling sound when she sees me. Yesterday when she was eating I sat behind Mandy and she watched me for a great while. I just looked at her. She has big eyes. When she is not screaming, which really is not very often, she can be fun. Perhaps it will be nice to have another person in the house. Soon she will be able to open the door for me. That will be a welcome treat.

Elway hid in the bedroom most of the time the company was here, unless they were eating. Then he would spend time with Shrimp Dad because he shares his food. During dinner he would sit between Bonedad and Shrimp Dad, and he was spoiled. I ventured out to allow Shrimp Dad to open the door for me so I could travel outside and inside as often as I pleased. Sometimes Mom WCT would open the door for me when Shrimp Dad was preoccupied. He spent a great deal of time in the man-eating-room while he was here. I was able to slip out there one night and inspect his work. The room looks much better, and I now have a large space to play when I can slip unnoticed passed Mandy or Sam.

Well, it is time for Mandy to start moving before Stella wakes up. Mandy has a list of things she does before Stella gets up each day. If I do not get her motivated soon, she will run out of time, and it will be the most unproductive of days. I do not like those days, as there is much for Mandy to accomplish around the house.

Peyton

There’s something strange…

2011-12-13T08:58:00.001-06:00

“…in the neighborhood. Who ya gonna call?”Well, let me tell you that I am not going to be calling the Ghostbusters. I would not even call Mandy. No I would call Superman Sam. Sing it, I dare you. Rather catchy, is it not? Mandy calls Superman Sam whenever there are problems and he always responds. This weekend, Superman Sam was extremely busy. However to understand things fully, I have to tell you about last week. I begged Mandy to let me tell you sooner, but she is rather preoccupied with that tiny person. Nevertheless, I have now convinced Mandy that I can wait no longer to fill you in on my activities.

Last week, say on Tuesday, Mandy let me out of the house on a gloriously cool fall day. I was enjoying my time playing with the bugs and talking to the lizards. Bold Cat came by and we spoke for a while. He has many stories to tell me. He is a BIG cat, and I enjoy his company. Friends are a nice thing to have in your company.

Anyway, after Bold Cat left, I came in and helped Mandy decorate Christmas Tree. When Sam pulled CT’s box out Elway and I were ecstatic! It took Mandy and Sam several days to finish decorating CT, and Elway and I helped whenever they worked on it. Stella sat on the desk and Mandy jingled ornaments at her, but she never let Mandy or Sam work for long. She is an attention hog, but regardless, when Mandy took a break from dressing CT, I went back outside. It was not very much later that Mandy looked out back and saw me outside the screen! I had escaped and was trying desperately to find a way back into my screen. I was terrified! I do not want to find a new home, and I wanted back in my safety area. Unlike Elway I am very happy where I am, and without Mandy and Sam I would not get my pills which keep my seizures at bay. So, I had to find a way back in. Thankfully, Mandy came to my rescue, and I eagerly ran to her. She welcomed me back into the house and I snuggled her and stuck close the rest of the day. I did not ask to go back out until the next day. However, I was not allowed to go back outside until Sam fixed the screen. So, Elway and I enjoyed our time under CT and playing in the house. Not only that, but it was rather chilly outside.

On Saturday Sam let us back outside, and I relished my time in the fresh air away from the screaming mimi. I stayed out as long as I was allowed. Later that night is when the excitement started. Sam was scratching my neck when he found a bump. Suddenly his voice changed and he was very concerned. I had a tick. I knew I was not going to like what would happen next because Mandy closed the bedroom door. Both Sam and Mandy held me down while Superman Sam worked on pulling out my tick. They were unsuccessful, and Stella woke up to save me from the torture. However, after Stella went to bed, I was pinned down again, and Sam pulled out the tick.

I ran away quickly when the tick was out and hid from Sam. He found out why the next morning when he found another tick on me. Again, both Mandy and Sam held me down while they worked on my neck. Superman Sam worked his magic and the tick was freed! I feel much better now that those icky bugs are gone. Sam and Mandy are very worried about where the ticks came from. They checked Elway over very carefully, and even checked Stella and themselves looking for those nasty little critters. Sam went outside and sprayed all over and Mandy has washed everything I sleep on. We are all hopefully that the ticks are gone and will never return.

However, because Mandy and Sam are worry warts, Mandy took both Elway and I to see Dr. Vicki yesterday. Elway had never been to this cat doctor before. However, Dr. Vicki is the one that helped me the most with my seizures. She is very nice, and snuggles me in a very scary place. Yesterday I was very calm when we arrived at the doctor’s office, but there were two small very noisy dogs in the waiting area which were very scary. Mandy was alone with us, and I was thankful because those yippy little things would have made Stella cry and then Mandy would have focused on her. Instead Mandy was able to snuggle both Elway and I and keep us calm. The vet looked us over and gave us our vaccines. They even weighed us, and I am happy to report I have lost almost a pound since last time I was weighed! However Elway, the little porker, has put on almost two pounds! But Dr. Vicki says we are just big cats, and we are beautiful. I knew there was a reason I liked her!

I was very happy to come home, but I asked Mandy to let me be free in the car so I could look out the window. I sat in the passenger seat and sang with Mandy while we drove home. Elway stayed in his cage and pouted the whole time. He was very nervous, even though I tried to keep him calm.

Well, it is sure to be a busy day. Mandy says we have company coming and you should see our house. It is trashed. Mandy has started some sort of project on the big table and there is stuff everywhere. She has a lot of work to do before I can allow company in our house.

Peyton

Thanksgiving Fun

2011-12-01T08:45:00.000-06:00

This week has been very busy, and I have not taken the time to update you because we had a house full of people! I wondered if people were coming when Mandy started doing some company cleaning, but she moves so slowly now that Stella has arrived. Mandy spends a lot of time with that tiny person, and they mainly sit on the couch or in a chair. Stella eats a lot, because it seems like whenever I come over to sniff at her, she’s eating again.

Well anyway, last week Sam left Mandy cooking in the kitchen. They had been busy all day and when Sam left I thought things might slow down a little, but when Sam came home he brought people with them! It was Half-sized human and his parents! It took me a while to recognize Half-sized human because he is not so small and everyone called him Tim. So, since he is hardly half-sized anymore I guess I will call him Tim too. Anyway, Tim was overly excited to play with me and at first it was rather unsettling. However, he played with my toys and I couldn’t let him play alone. Sometimes he was a little rough and I would run and hide in the bedroom, but I always came back out to play with him. Since that tiny person has come into our home, Mandy and Sam have not played with me as often as I would like, and having Tim here to play with me was exciting! Sometimes I would come out and look for him, but sometimes he would hide upstairs so I couldn’t play with him. Maybe I was too rough for him? But even if we both spent time hiding in our rooms I still had fun playing!

This morning Peyton came out and begged Mandy to go outside. Mandy let us both go outside, and it was cold! Peyton made a new friend, who was very bold. This cat didn’t leave no matter how hard I tried to scare him off. Mandy even came outside but was unable to scare this bold cat off. Peyton, of course, followed this bold cat around and they sat nose to nose for a long time and talked. Mandy tried to take Bold Cat’s picture, but he would run when the camera came out. Strange how Mandy couldn’t chase him off, but the camera sent him running. He must not want his ugly mug frozen in time. Eventually Sam and Mandy made Peyton come in, because Bold Cat was making everyone nervous. I was thankful when Peyton was safe in our house. I did not like Bold Cat.

Mandy says since I was unable to update life for Thanksgiving, that I should let you know all the things for which I’m thankful. First I’m thankful for Peyton, for without him I would have no one to bite. I’m thankful for Sam and Mandy because they love me. I’m thankful for my house, because it’s a cold dark world beyond my screen. I’m also thankful for my food, crunchies, and catnip. I’m still debating if I’m thankful for Stella, but I know Mandy and Sam are very happy to have her in our home, so I guess I don’t mind her. She likes to watch me and makes cute little sounds at me, so I can deal with that.

Well, I think I hear Stella waking up, so I am going to go check on her.

Elway

Gift Giving

2011-11-17T08:40:00.001-06:00

Stella has been receiving gifts from all sorts of people, so Peyton and I decided we needed to do our part to make her feel welcome. This morning we found a lizard and tried to give it to her. Unfortunately for us, Mandy heard the tiny person wake up. Mandy has become like a super hearing maniac, if Stella makes the slightest peep, Mandy hears it. Anyway, we were trying to give Stella the lizard when Mandy walked in on us and apparently Mandy wasn’t happy with our idea.

Mandy rushes over to grab the lizard away from me, so I snatched the lizard up in my mouth and ran away. Mandy can move quickly again, so I didn’t make it away before I was tackled. Mandy tried to get me to drop the lizard, but I refused. Then I did something I’ve never done before—I growled at Mandy. I mean I really told her what I thought about her trying to take my lizard! She was startled and ended up calling Sam because Stella was crying, Peyton was trying to distract her and I was giving her the growl. I ran under the bed at my first available chance and proceeded to make Mandy think I ate the lizard. Stella will have to wait for the next lizard to receive her gift. When Mandy told her that I ate the lizard, Stella made funny noises and Mandy said she smiled! I wish I could have seen it, but I was too busy hiding from a now angry Mandy. She says we are bad cats, because our job is to protect Stella from invaders not give them to her! However, I believe Stella would have enjoyed the lizard. Peyton and I enjoy playing with them, so I imagine the tiny person would have enjoyed it too.

I am being careful to be sweet to Mandy so she will forgive me for this morning, but for now I will sit in the closed kitchen window.

Elway

Imprisoned

2011-11-16T14:36:00.002-06:00

We’ve been doing a great job protecting the house from lizards, but Mandy doesn’t seem to think so. She says that we are only protecting the house by keeping the lizards out of the house not bringing them inside. In less than 18 hours, Peyton and I brought in three lizards and a frog! It was amazing! Our skills were not appreciated, and Mandy has closed the windows and turned on the air. She even closed the kitchen window, because I pounced through the screen in order to get the frog. She says the kitchen window is closed until repairs are made. What a sad thing! I feel like I'm trapped in a prison!

Today was very busy. Mandy woke up very early with Stella and rather than crawling back in bed to sleep longer, Sam woke up and started getting ready to go. He dressed up and left very early, and Mandy dressed too. She moved a little more slowly than Sam, but eventually she and Stella left too. Apparently, Stella had to visit the doctor for her one month check up. I find it hard to believe that the tiny person has been here for a full month, but I guess time goes fast when you’re constantly in hiding. Today I have decided to accept Stella, regardless of my personal feelings for her. When Mandy was in the kitchen filling up her water glass, I sniffed at Stella while she was sleeping in her chair. She woke up when I was close and squawked something at me. I’m not sure what she said, but I’d like to think she said hello.

Peyton has taken up guarding the tiny person, and if Mandy does not act quickly enough when she’s crying, Peyton comes running to see what the matter is. He does not get close to Stella, but he will walk around her. This morning when Mandy was taking her picture, Peyton was in the background watching. He likes to make sure she is happy, although he won’t do anything to make her happy.

Well, I think I hear that tiny person yelling again, so I will take my leave to the closet for my afternoon nap.

Elway

Beautiful Outside!

2011-11-13T13:28:00.000-06:00

It’s simply beautiful outside, and Sam opened the windows for us! It has been rather cool, so our windows have not been open for a few days. Peyton and I have been going in and out through the door, but with the windows open it is much easier to come and go as we please.

Last night the tiny person slept for a little longer than usual, and I was able to talk with Mandy when she was feeding her in the middle of the night. I snuggled her and then warmed her spot in bed after a little while.

Last night Sam gave us tuna for dinner. Mandy’s homemade tuna is my favorite dinner. I absolutely love tuna!

Well I’m going to go back outside while it is still nice out!
Elway

Big Adventure -- Hunt for a New Home

2011-11-10T16:49:00.000-06:00

Life has been so unpredictable and busy I haven’t had a chance to fill you in on what’s been happening. Peyton told you that Mandy and Sam brought the tiniest person I’ve ever seen into our home. I tried hard to protect her when she would kick me from Mandy’s tummy, but now I’m not so sure what I think. She is noisy, and takes all of Mandy’s time. Peyton has become rather protective of the tiny person and Mandy, but I tend to stay as far away as possible.

Last week, Mandy was really sick. She slept on the couch and Sam had to help her out. I’ve never seen Mandy so sick, but thankfully she is doing better now. I did come out and sleep with Mandy, snuggling her to keep her warm. It was all I could do to help Mandy feel better.

This weekend, Opa and Elly were here. They’ve been here before, and I don’t think Opa cares for cats much, so he leaves us alone. Elly is concerned that I’d bother her yarn, but I’ve never really played with yarn, so I don’t think I’d bother hers. They do offer us bites of food, so that is nice.

After Opa and Elly left, I did some deep soul searching. I came to a decision that was hard for me to make, but one I felt that needed to be made. I decided to look for a new home. No one ever plays with me, and Mandy and Sam are always busy with that tiny person. So I decided to make a break for it by breaking through the screen by the big tub one afternoon when Mandy left the windows open for us. Peyton stayed behind, claiming that Mandy and Sam do play with us and care for us. Peyton said I was being crazy by not counting my blessings, but I thought maybe I could fend for myself. I played in the brush behind the house, and went on a big adventure. I will never admit how far I wandered, or if I wandered from home at all, but I was free! Mandy came out back looking for me a few times, but I stayed hidden away so she couldn’t see me. Peyton told her I was hidden in the closet where I normally sleep. When Sam came home from work, he went out back, and I hid from him and I watched him water the tiny tree Opa bought for the tiny person.

After a while, it got dark and I started to get hungry. Being free wasn’t all it was suppose to be. Sam started looking for me and I came running! I guess I don’t want to fend for myself after all. Some attention is better than living out in the wild. I guess I will just have to accept that tiny person no matter what it means to my play time with Mandy. I will just have to count my blessings. Mandy does look for me, and she love me. She even plays with me at times and gives me treats. Both Sam and Mandy feed us, and my box is cleaned daily. I even play with the toys Mandy leaves out for me. At night when she feeds that tiny person I can sit with her and attempt to keep her awake. I can also keep her spot warm so when she comes back to bed it’s warm for her. Mandy always loves me when I come out to see her even if she is holding that tiny person. So, I guess I do have a lot to be thankful for, and have decided not to run away again—tiny person or no.

Well, it was cold today so Mandy did not open the windows for us. Sam has closed up the hole I made in the screen, but I have no interest in breaking free. Life is comfortable here, and I rather enjoy my warm bed.

Elway

Life Will Never be the Same Again...

2011-10-31T14:46:00.003-05:00

So much as happened in the last few weeks—that I am at a loss of what all to tell you. It all started two weeks ago when Mandy and Sam called their family and said the baby was coming the next day. Mandy said that Mom-With-Cool-Toys and Shrimp Dad were coming to take care of Elway and me.

The next morning Sam and Mandy woke up really really early and left Elway and I alone. They said Mom WCT and Shrimp Dad would be here later to feed us dinner, and that it would be a few days before Mandy came home because she had to get the baby taken out of her tummy.

Mandy was telling the truth, Mom WCT and Shrimp Dad showed up and fed us dinner, gave me my pill and even gave us cool new toys! Mom WCT played the noise maker and sang to me, and I came out and welcomed them into my home. They took good care of me since Mandy and Sam left us. They even brought Ajulie into the house and she loved us too.

It is what has happened since Mandy and Sam came home though that has turned our lives upside down. When Mandy came home a few days later, she brought in the tiniest person I have ever seen. Everyone was oh-ing and aw-ing over this tiny creature. Mandy carefully picked her up and everyone held her. Mandy tried to show her to me, and do you know what she did? She bopped me in the nose! The very first time that tiny kick boxing body invader got close enough that I could smell her she smacks me in the nose! Mandy and Sam call her Stella but really she is just a screaming mimi! Whenever she is unhappy she just screams and Mandy or Sam come running to take care of her every whim!

Mom WCT, Shrimp Dad, and Ajulie left after a few days. I had hoped they would taking the tiny screaming mimi with them, but when Sam and Mandy came inside after saying good bye that tiny person was still with them. Mandy said she is here to stay.

I have tried screaming in order to get my way, or to get Mandy’s attention and when Stella is sleeping or eating, (which is most of the time) I get shushed. As long as Stella is awake or if Sam is holding her, Mandy will still jump to help me out. I miss my play time and snuggles with Mandy and it is because of this tiny person I feel like life will never be the same again.

Peyton

Here Lizard, Lizard, Lizard!

2011-10-14T16:22:00.002-05:00

Today has been rather unusual. Mandy and Sam slept in again, which they have been doing all week. I don't understand why Sam isn't going to work as early as normal. After Sam left for work Mandy pulled out the video games and started jumping, dancing and moving all in front of the TV. It was vastly different than her regular work out. Then after she rested, she went outside and did some yard work. She took the bush-wacker to the plants by the big tub, and then she swept up all the leftovers she cut off. Peyton helped her sweep things up, and was allowed to stay outside even longer since he was so helpful. Mandy said he was extremely helpful. He even pawed some of the leaves Mandy didn't sweep up.

After a while, I joined Peyton outside and we found an intruder! I snatched that lizard up in my mouth so fast you would have been impressed. However, the lizard put up a fight and Mandy heard the ruckus. That lizard tried to take a bite out of me! Mandy jumped up and met me as I jumped through the window. The lizard was flopping out of my mouth, and he had a tuft of my hair hanging out of his mouth. He was a feisty little critter.

Mandy grabbed me and tried to get me to drop the lizard. I refused at first, but Mandy was very persuasive, and the lizard was less than cooperative in my mouth. Eventually I gagged and the lizard sprang from my mouth and literally flew across the room and landed on the couch. He immediately hid under the pillows and Mandy shooed my away. Then she gingerly picked up the pillows so not to allow the flying lizard another flight. Mandy found the intruder and he sprang at her. I'm telling you, that creature was something fierce! She stepped back and the lizard jumped up on the back of the couch and then down onto the floor. Mandy tried hard to capture the lizard but he was just too fast for her. She was moving furniture and trying hard to scoop up the lizard but he was one ferocious little critter! He even snapped his jaws at Mandy showing her the tiny teeth that had snagged a tuft of my hair. She said he was more gator than lizard! Eventually, Mandy called Sam since she didn’t think she’d be able to catch the trespasser. She was winded, and tired. Sam said he’d come home and help as long as Mandy could keep an eye on the lizard. Just then the trespasser made a run from under the couch to the chair. Mandy threw a towel on him and scooped him up in the towel! She captured the lizard! Sam was called back and told not to return home--Mandy can capture lizard after all!

Mandy took the whole towel outside and let the lizard go. He still had my hair in his mouth. He was a mean little sucker. Well, at this point, Mandy made both Peyton and I come in the house and she closed the windows. She said we broke rule number four, No lizard snatching, and not only that, I had brought the mean little intruder into the house.

It was rather humorous to watch Mandy jumping and throwing furniture around. I did not think she could move like that any longer, but apparently she still has a few tricks up her sleeve.

This afternoon has been rather calm. After a stressful and active morning, Mandy has relaxed and cleaned house for the weekend. Hopefully it will be a fun weekend.

Elway

Rule-Breaker

2011-10-12T08:19:00.001-05:00

With the new rule in place, there are now so many rules to remember it is hard to obey them all. I mean four outside rules?! It is just excessive. I will review the rules for you, since Mandy just repeated them to us, that way you do not have to rack your brain to remember all these rules!

      1. No Frog Chomping
     2. No Bug Munching
     3. No Fishing
     4. No Lizard Snatching

Well this morning, Elway became the Rule-Breaker. He found a lizard outback and rather than alerting Mandy, he snatched that lizard up in his jaws of death and raced into the house. Fortunately for the little lizard, he started wiggling around in Elway’s mouth, and right in front of Mandy Elway had to gag that lizard up. He was able to snatch him back into his death trap before Mandy knew what was going on though. He raced into the bedroom, and Mandy knew he had something. She slowly maneuvered her way off the couch, (she attempted to jump, but was unable to do so) and started hollering for Sam. She did her slow trot into the bedroom where she dropped on all fours, still hollering for Sam. Elway was under the bed and attempting to execute the tiny lizard. Sam grabbed the flash light and was able push Elway out from under the bed. Elway raced past Mandy, since she is so slow and into the next room.

Finally the chase ended when Elway gagged the lizard up under the big table. Amazingly, the little lizard was still alive and Sam rescued the lizard from Elway’s jaws of death and took him outside. Mandy is unsure if he will live, but Elway does not mind. He was disappointed he was unable to execute the intruder for trespassing on our domain. Elway says he is working on protecting the home so the baby is safe. He believes if he can rid the house of all intruders, perhaps the baby will come sooner. We are all anxious for her to make her début. I am a little unsure if I am ready to meet her, since she kicks me so often, but Elway is overjoyed to finally meet the little life that practices her kung-fu on us through Mandy’s tummy. Any day now.

Well, it is beautiful outside, and since Mandy did not close the windows after Elway’s escapade, I am going to enjoy the outdoors.

Peyton

Intruder Alert!

2011-10-11T09:06:00.000-05:00

This morning, Mandy opened the kitchen window for me and immediately grabbed me away from the window and slammed it closed. Whoa! I immediately knew something was up, but I didn’t know why Mandy was acting so strange. She told Sam there was a frog inside the screen! What?! A frog in my window! How could I miss that? Apparently, she was unsure if the intruder was alive, but she was not going to take any chances since I was there. Sam came over, and cautiously opened the window. I tried to assist Sam, but he pushed me away. Unfortunately, Mandy’s speculation of the frog’s life was correct, the trespasser was dead. I was unable to execute punishment, but I suppose he already received it. Sam carefully pulled the dead prowler from the window and disposed of him. May this be a lesson to all intruders...even if we do not find you, death will follow if you try to enter our house.

Well, since it is early not much else is new. Sam has left for work, and Mandy is getting ready for the day. Yesterday she cleaned house, and pounded on the wall upstairs--she was hanging something in the baby’s room. Peyton helped her, and Mandy was pleased that he was not afraid of the hammer.

I better run, Peyton looks like he is ready to pounce, and I want to make the first move.

Elway

Any Day Now

2011-10-10T13:26:00.001-05:00

So, we’re waiting. All of us. Peyton and I are trying to encourage the baby to come meet us, but she just won’t listen to our pleas. We have tried to help Mandy by chasing her, or having her chase us all of the house this weekend. Last night, I even walked several laps around the pool with her while Sam watered the plants.

Peyton has become rather rambunctious lately. He even tried fishing, not once but TWICE, right in front of Mandy. Needless to say, Peyton ended up a little wet. I was glad he got in trouble! He was awfully bold, jumping up to fish right in front of Mandy like that.

Last night, Peyton was upstairs singing while Mandy played the noise maker. After he stopped singing Mandy went upstairs. I followed her up and begged to be let into the baby’s room. She let me in, and I made a bee-line for the open bathroom door and raced around to the guest room! Since Mandy can’t dive anymore, I easily made it into the guest room! Score one for me! However, Mandy called Sam and he poked at me with a long stick, until he could reach me. Then he pulled me out from under the bed and I was thrown out of the guest room. It sure was sure fun while it lasted though!

Today, Mandy has been cleaning house. Our house seems to be cleaned just about every day. Mandy finds little things to do on a daily bias that seem rather odd. This weekend, she cleaned the wall around the fireplace. Strange.

Mandy has been boiling water today, and dumping it on ant piles out front. I think the water is almost ready so, I am going to watch from the front window!

Elway

Quiet Mornings

2011-10-07T13:56:00.003-05:00

Life has been rather quiet since the morning chase earlier this week. However, when Sam leaves for work Elway and I make sure we are at the front door to make sure no intruders trespass in our domain. So far, nothing else has dared enter into our home.

The other day Mandy was napping on the couch, and Elway woke up her up let her know there was a small bug not far from her. She was able to capture the bug and dispose of it, before it could disrupt her nap. She praised Elway for his brave display of protectiveness. In order to show Mandy that I am also brave, I have looked for bugs all week, but have not been able to find another. However, when another one sneaks into the house, I will be there to pounce.

The weather has been beautiful of a morning, and Mandy opens the windows for us as soon as she wakes up. This morning, Sam overslept slightly, and I was forced to wake Mandy while he dressed for work. I jumped up on the bed and told Mandy it was time to get up. She responded by pulling me into a cuddle. I told her that I did not want cuddled, I wanted outside! Mandy eventually responded to my requests and woke up to let me outside! It was gorgeous this morning, and I sang to the world to say good morning! I am hopeful that when Mandy grills dinner tonight, I will be able to enjoy some time outside again this evening.

Peyton

Unbelievable Morning Chase

2011-10-04T08:27:00.001-05:00

This morning there was a big chase around the house. Guess who was being chased? Me! Sam was leaving for work and Mandy was holding the front door open briefly to say good bye when a sneaky little intruder scurried into my domain! I pounced on that lizard so fast, Mandy had no idea what was in the house! I took off into the family room to commence corporal punishment. All intruders are instantly guilty and the punishment is death! (Peyton disagrees, and would rather play with our visitors, but I remind him they are interlopers not friends!)

Mandy called for Sam and then she came running after me—I say running, but Mandy doesn’t really run anymore. It’s a rather humorous trot while she holds her ever expanding belly. Sam came in the house and a full out chase had begun! At first Peyton stayed with me as my wing man, or as a possible ploy to rescue the trespasser, but eventually he deserted me. Anyway, since I was not going to be allowed to give the lizard a proper death, I scooped him up in my mouth and started munching—death by fangs would have to suffice. Mandy was coming up behind me and Sam was towering in front of me—this is when Peyton deserted me. He plopped down in the family room and watched the events unfold. I carefully observed my exit paths and quickly slithered past Sam and raced into the bedroom. He came barreling up behind me, so I dove under the bed. Mandy can’t crawl under the bed anymore, so I knew I would have a little time to execute my prisoner.

Sam started army crawling under the bed and eventually I had to abandon my post. I tried to hide in the window, however Mandy saw me and she pulled the curtains back. I bolted past her back into the family room. Unfortunately, I started gagging on the lizard and was forced to abandon him. Mandy finally caught me, and Sam scooped up the now dead intruder.

It was a fun morning event for me. Watching Mandy trot around the house was hilarious, and it was a entertaining start to the day!

The windows have been open for several days now, and it is glorious! Sam has been cutting the palm tree leaves, and I believe that is why there are so many lizards and frogs trying to invade our house. Their homes are being cut down, and they are interested in revenge. We have been on full alert keeping these critters out of our home. May this be a warning to all invaders--trespassing is punishable by death.

Well, I think I’ll chase Peyton down and let him know what I think about his abandonment in this morning’s chase.

Elway

New Rule

2011-10-01T09:43:00.000-05:00

I was able to force Mandy and Sam into making a new outside rule—and this rule was created solely because of me!

Last night, Mandy asked Sam to do something outback in the dark. I came running into the family room as soon as I heard Sam unlock the door and asked as nicely as possible if I could join him outside. Mandy said it was a bad idea, but I gave Sam my best “Please?! I promise to be a good kitty!” look. “Meow, Sam Meow!” Sam overruled Mandy’s ‘No’, and let me outside in the dark! He said he would bring me back in.

After a few minutes, Mandy joined us outside. She must have been checking up on us, but Sam said it was time to go inside. He tried to get me to come in the house. Guess what I did? I ran from him. Meow!! Mandy joined in on the chase, but I am speedy and stealth-like. However, at this time Elway joined us outside and Mandy was less than amused by Sam’s decision to let us outside in the dark.

After a few minutes, Mandy gave up on me, since Sam promised he would bring me inside and she started to bring Elway inside. I ran to the corner by the grill, and guess what I found?! A Lizard! I grabbed that lizard in my mouth and made a beeline for the house! However, that wiggly little critter was not cooperative and I had to drop him before I made it in the house. Sam knew I had something and called to Mandy. They tried to stop me before I made it inside, but I was quicker than them. (Have I mentioned that Mandy no longer runs or dives after us?) As soon as I was in the house, I ran through the family room, under the piano and into the bedroom! However, by the time I made it to the bedroom, the lizard made me gag and I had to drop him just before I crossed the threshold. Mandy actually did dive after me at this point, and I was forced to abandon the lizard!

Sam came running up behind Mandy and captured the lizard while Mandy kept me away from my prey. Once Sam captured the lizard, my play thing was gone! Sam took him back outside and said I was not allowed outside after dark ever again. Meow.

Mandy made sure the lizards tail was not in my mouth and I fussed at her for ruining my play thing. She was upset that I brought the lizard in the house. She said it is my job to keep the invaders out, not bring them in the house!

So, do you remember the three rules of outside play?

     1. No fishing
     2. No frog chomping
     3. No bug munching

Well can you guess rule number four?

     4. No lizard snatching

All well, it sure made for a memorable evening, and now there is a rule in place because of me! All of the other rules were put in place because of Elway, and now I have assisted in the creation of our list of outside rules!

Peyton

Best Morning Ever!

2011-09-29T09:03:00.000-05:00

This morning has been amazing! We have three rules to play outside:

1. No fishing
2. No frog chomping
3. No bug munching

Well, this morning Peyton broke rule number one! For the third time this week!!! Guess who went for a swim! Not Elway! Nope, I was a good kitty! The first time Peyton was caught, he was only watching the fish and Mandy gave him a warning. The second time his paw was raised in the air, but as soon as Mandy went outside Peyton hid, and since Mandy doesn’t move as fast right now, she gave up the hunt. Today though, Mandy closed the windows and locked Peyton outside because it looked like his paw was ready to scoop up a fish. He gave up running and faced the punishment! After Peyton finished swimming, (he hardly got his paws wet. Seriously Mandy?!) Mandy wrapped him in a big towel to dry him off and bring him inside. He was one unhappy cat. Mandy snuggled him and loved him, just like she did me last year. However, it doesn’t make the swim any more fun. And Peyton was angry! He let Mandy dry him off and warm him up, but he refused breakfast and shunned Mandy. I’m just glad that crazy cat finally got in trouble. He’s pretty good at blaming me, and this morning he had to face the music alone!

I think since this morning, Peyton has let go of his anger. He’s directed his attention to the front door again. There are several frogs that have made their home our front door. So many frogs that Sam and Mandy no longer use the door once the sun goes down. The other day, they let in a lizard and it took a long time to corral him. Anyway, we had four frogs in our sights last night! Two larger frogs right in the center of the glass on the door and two tiny frogs up higher! Mandy says the tiniest tree frog lives on top of the doorbell during the day. We can’t see him during the day, but Peyton watches the door all the time now, just in case.

Well, it’s my turn to guard the door. The windows are open though, and it is hard to pull myself inside. It’s so beautifully cool outside, Maybe Peyton won’t notice if I skip my watch.
Elway

Stange Happenings!

2011-09-27T13:04:00.000-05:00

A few nights ago, Sam and Mandy started moving all of our furniture around! It was rather strange, because it’s been a long time since they moved furniture! And they were not rearranging the furniture; they were moving it all into the kitchen! Then when they got up yesterday morning, they finished moving the furniture all around. Sam moved the couch into the entry way and Peyton and I had a whole room to play in with no furniture! It was awesome!

However, all the fun and games ended when Mandy pulled out the evil villain yesterday morning! But after villain came out, the furniture didn’t get put back in to place. Instead, Mandy tried to gather us into the closet. She said we would be safe in there, and she’d keep the door closed for us. We didn’t want anything to do with the closet because we had open spaces to play! But a strange man ruined our play time. Mandy let the man into the house. Sam showed him all over and then the strange man started dragging stuff into the house. He made so much noise in our house! I thought Vacuum was loud, but whatever this guy did was much louder!

After a long time, he finished and left. Mandy said we could come out of hiding, but we ignored her and stayed hidden away for a long time! Come mid-afternoon Mandy dragged me out of hiding and showed me the house. When she put me down on the floor, the carpet was wet! I smelled all over the house, and everywhere I went the carpet smelled clean but it was wet!

By the time Sam got home the carpets were fairly dry, but Mandy and Sam still haven’t put all the furniture back into place yet. They have put a good portion of it back into place, and Mandy has been working on putting all the “stuff” back in place. I’m glad she doesn’t have a lot of “stuff” out. It makes it easier to put the house back together.

Last night when Sam came home, he was working in the garage. I sat in the front window to watch him. Strange Cat came clear up in front of the house. I only smirked at her as she looked around to see if Peyton was in the front window—he was not, and I wasn’t about to tell him he had a visitor. Sam saw her and watched her for while before he said, “Hi Strange Cat!” She freaked out! I laughed at her in the window and joyously watched as she flew out of our yard! Way to Go Sam! Keep her away from Peyton!

Today Peyton and I have been rather sleepy. We stayed up a good portion of the night playing and wrestling. Unfortunately we kept Mandy and Sam awake. We were guarding the house too! There was an intruder outside our bedroom window and Peyton and I worked hard to scare it away. Sam got up at one point and tried to see what we were fighting off. He said we were imaging things, but that’s only because his untrained eyes cannot see in the dark.

Well, I think I will help Mandy do some more stuff around the house. She has been busy doing odd things lately. She cleans strange things, and today is no exception.
Elway

Resting Up

2011-09-21T12:10:00.001-05:00

This weekend was busy. Mandy told the truth about company. Late Saturday night, Sam and Mandy tore out of the house and when they returned Mom With-Cool-Toys was with them. Elway and I were sitting in the window when they pulled up and we saw her climb out of the car. She came in and talked with us for a little while before we all went to bed.

The next day, Mom WCT was true to her name and pulled out some new toys for us! However, these toys were different than anything she has brought us before. She had to make these toys! She filled mice with catnip and sewed up the bottom. She made a catnip mouse for both Elway and I. After she gave them to us, Elway pulled out several of his toys from the toy box to show Mom WCTs how much he likes her toys. She laughed at us, and enjoyed our company.

Sunday evening, Mandy and Mom WCT came home with more stuff for something tiny. It is still spread all over our house, but Mandy has been going through it and writing on note cards. She spends time with us next to the front window while she does these. She says we are a big help as she sorts and folds these tiny items.

On Monday, Mandy and Mom WCT left us alone for a good portion of the day, and when they came home in the afternoon, Mandy said we had to say good-bye to Mom WCT because she was going home. We both came out and said good-bye and then she was gone.

Sam has been busy working in the yard. He has been cutting some of the palm tree branches down. He created a huge pile of branches in front of the house, and today a big green truck came and took those branches away! Now our front yard is clean again!

Wee Little Turtle was in the back yard yesterday! We would have gone outside and talked with him, except it was raining and neither Elway nor I wanted to go splash around in the sprinkles. However, Wee Little Turtle looked as though he was thoroughly enjoying himself. He stretched his neck way out of his shell and was looking up at the sky. It was fun to watch him.

Well, I believe it is time for a nap.
Peyton

Seizure Awareness

2011-09-17T10:23:00.000-05:00

These last few days have been filled with many ups and downs. Wednesday evening, Sam worked late and Mandy was home alone. Peyton went running by her into the bedroom in sheer panic and started having a seizure. It was very scary. Mandy came running in and rushed to be with Peyton. However, his seizure was much longer than any he has previously had before, and Mandy was scared. To be honest, I was petrified. I tried to help Mandy calm Peyton and keep him from hurting himself, but I gave into my fears and hid under the bed. Eventually Peyton came out of the seizure, but both Mandy and I were shook up. It took Peyton a few minutes to find his meow and a little bit longer for him to find his legs. He seemed to shake off the seizure once he started moving. We were all trying to act calm in a very stressful situation. Mandy called Sam and I could tell in her voice she was upset, although she tried to hide her fears from us. Sam came home, and worked from home the rest of the night. He stayed up late working, which helped Mandy get some good sleep after being so upset. She needed to sleep off the fears.

The next morning Mandy called Cat Doctor and talked with her. Because Peyton’s seizures are becoming closer together and are gradually getting more severe, they agreed it was time to put Peyton on daily medication that will hopefully suppress the seizures. Mandy has fought putting Peyton on this medication for a long as possible, and has shed many tears over the decision in the last few days. We have all been praying that the seizures would just stop. Mandy has done everything to rule out any possible outside source as being the cause of the seizure. She makes our food, she keeps us calm, and she always tries to shelter us from stressful situations. However, the blood work shows that the seizures are not caused by anything chemical. Sometimes, rarely, but sometimes cats just have them. The last seizure was so scary that I am glad they are doing something that will attempt to prevent these horrible attacks in the future. Peyton seems relieved to be taking the medication, because he didn’t fight Mandy at all when she told him what the medication would do. In fact, he took the pill willingly—right out of her hand!

Peyton was not ready to discuss this yet, but he thought it was acceptable if I told you, that way you can all pray that his medication works, that there are no serious side effects, and that the seizures will seize.

Onto a much lighter note, it has been a little cooler and Mandy has let us play outside. In fact, she has been outside some too. Every day she walks around the big tub, multiple times, and we play outside with her. She used to splash around in there, but I think the water is a little cold, because she can’t seem to ease her mountain of a tummy into the water.

This morning, Mandy took the plant scissors out back and went to work cutting the dead off of our potted plants. Sam pushed around the grass eater, so I didn’t stay outside long, but Peyton was determined to enjoy the beautiful weather. He hid under the table and watched as Mandy cut the plants and Sam pushed the grass eater. It was noisy out there, but Peyton was brave!

Mandy says we have company coming tonight! Yesterday she trimmed our claws, and told us how handsome we were. Today, I am going to make sure my fur is extra clean so I can impress our company tonight. Maybe the company will bring me toys!
Elway

Sticky Bubbly Mess!

2011-09-13T09:36:00.000-05:00

This morning I was sitting in the kitchen window, since Mandy had opened it for us, and I was watching the outside world. I was not paying attention to Mandy so I am not entirely sure what happened but she made a huge mess! After she made Sam’s lunch she was reaching for something in the fridge, or putting something away, she knocked a glass jar on the floor and dark glass and sticky bubbly stuff went flying everywhere!

Elway came running into the kitchen to see what the ruckus was, only for Mandy to pick him up and tell him he could not help her clean up this mess because of the glass. He was offended and is currently pouting in the bedroom. Mandy started picking up little shards of glass, which was entertaining to watch since Mandy has a hard time picking things up off the ground--even when she is close to the ground. Maybe she should have taken Elway up on his offer to help! Anyway, I slithered up behind Mandy to see what she spilled all over the floor. It was one of her Lime Sodey Pops and it was sticky and sweet! Sam came to help Mandy clean up the mess, and between the two of them they cleaned it up. Sam helped Mandy pick up the little pieces she could not reach and Mandy soaked up the pop. Clumsy Mandy—it was a huge mess!

After Sam left for work, Mandy worked out and then there was a loud noise outside. I thought it was the garbage truck, which I love to watch come by, so I ran to the window! But the garbage truck was nowhere to be found! In its place was what Mandy called a city truck. Men dressed in colorful vests climbed off the truck and started cutting some tree branches off of a palm tree. Then they took the branches and tossed them in this truck that ate the branches and spit them out in little bits! I watched the whole time they were there. I have never seen anything like it! I do not know why they were there, or why they cut the branches down, and Mandy seemed surprised to see them. I will have to watch to see if they come back.

Well, I am trying to motivate Mandy to start her day. She promised to make us more food this afternoon, so she needs to get moving!
Peyton

Heating up

2011-09-12T14:26:00.000-05:00

It has started to heat up again overnight, and Mandy has not opened the windows for us to enjoy all night. It is very sad to have closed windows again after such freedom and cool outside air! However, it is warmer outside, and I did not spend as much time outside as before when it was cooler.

Mandy is starting to sleep less and less overnight—which has major perks! She gives me crunchies when she gets up! I know it means less crunchies in the morning, but the midnight snack is simply amazing. I tell Mandy regularly, this is now supposed to happen all the time. Midnight snacks are official expected and no longer a dream.

Mandy’s tummy is getting bigger all the time. Sometimes I think she just might explode, so I try not to push on her tummy often. However, since she is awake several times during the night, she is exceptionally difficult to wake up in the mornings. Sometimes I have no choice but to walk on her. I try to step mainly on her ribs, because when I miss, her tummy really kicks at me. It is rather uncomfortable because it throws off my balance, and it always makes Mandy groan in pain. Sam yells at me when this happens. If this happens, I always try to snuggle the unfriendly belly to make up for stepping on it. Mandy then proceeds to snuggle me, but it does not always guarantee she is awake. Sometimes if she grabs me while she is still asleep, I feel trapped.

It was a short weekend. I guess summer really is over as Sam no longer spends extra time with us on the weekends. And his hours are getting a little longer too. I miss our evening playtimes when Sam and Mandy would splash around in the big tub and Elway and I could play outside. It is nice to go outside with Mandy, but it is just not the same without Sam.

Today has been quiet. We are napping and Mandy is working on laundry. I will help her fold it in a little bit if Elway does not wake up first. I would prefer Elway to wake up, but he is become slightly lazy. So, I might have to do his work.
Peyton

Beautiful Mornings!

2011-09-09T10:21:00.000-05:00

Oh what beautiful mornings! We have had several days mornings now that have been absolutely glorious! Mandy has opened the windows for us, and we have enjoyed time outside. It is wonderful! I have missed our outside time more than I thought. Strange Cat came by yesterday and we talked for a long time. We even walked along the screen together. Elway pouted and went inside when Strange Cat came by, but at least I was able to spend some time with her! She is fascinating! I was careful to groom myself this morning before I went outside. However, I did not see the intriguing creature this morning.

This morning we did have a new visitor though! A wee little turtle come by and told us about life! This turtle was much smaller than Mr. Turtle or even Little Turtle. We are unsure what happened to them, but Wee Little Turtle was friendly and had much to share. He even stayed close by and let Mandy and Sam look at him. He has beautiful coloring on his shell.

This morning Mandy’s alarm went off, normally only Sam’s alarm is set. So as soon as I knew it was time to get up, I started asking Mandy to open the windows. It was almost light outside, and I knew she would let us out if we asked. Mandy got out of bed first, but she made us wait a little bit before she let us outside. She said it was still too dark to go outside, but when Sam finally rolled out of bed, only a few minutes later, he opened the window for us! Apparently a few minutes made all the difference.

Last night, when Sam came home, he pulled out the grass eater and went to work. Mandy let us play outside again, and it was beautiful. We stayed outside until Sam started pushing the grass eater in the back and then we came inside.

This morning Sam went to work. He has not worked on Fridays for a long time, and I guess that means it might start getting busy for him again. We will miss our long weekends. It just not the same without Sam home today. Hopefully we will be able to enjoy him tomorrow.
Peyton

Good-Bye Sunshine

2011-09-05T09:43:00.000-05:00

Mandy says the sun will come out tomorrow, but I think she’s just singing to us to make us think there is hope we’ll see the sun again. The sun went to sleep Thursday night, and has been gone ever since. In it’s place, we’ve had dark clouds, rain, thunder, lightening, and wind. Lots of wind. This morning, the wind is screaming through our back yard. It is rather spooky. Not to mention, dark. Even with the lights on, it’s dark in our house. Mandy and Sam have been out in the awful weather, and we have worried for him. We are always relieved when they return home. We tried to keep them from church yesterday, but Mandy said the storm wasn't that bad, and that we would be fine. We were forced to believe her, and she was right. We were fine until they returned home. But it wouldn't have been so lonely if they stayed with us. I stayed curled up in bed while they were gone.

On top of all of that, I thought Sam was suppose to return to work today, but Sam and Mandy slept late again, and there is no sign of Sam even thinking about getting ready for work. Those lazy people are still in their pj’s lounging around the house. It’s relaxing, but I’m not sure what it means. How am I suppose to help Mandy with laundry if Sam is doing all my work?

Sam caught me jumping on the big table today. I’m not allowed to be on the big table in the fancy eating room, and he dragged me back into the family room and forced me to sit with Mandy for a while. I didn’t stay long, before I was off playing again. No man can tame me.

Well, I think I might go play with Peyton. He’s been extremely vocal with this dreary weather. He talks to anyone who will listen, and often he just sings a song all of his own. Mandy and Sam have sung with him, talked to him, and played and he’s still howling away. I’m going to attack him, and maybe he will play with me instead of making such a ruckus.
Elway

Oh, Happy Day!

2011-09-02T19:02:00.001-05:00

Mandy made my favorite dinner tonight—tuna and oatmeal. It was delicious, as always, and I loved it. Peyton is not as excited about the homemade tuna meals, but he can just deal, since it is my favorite.

Today has been rather strange. This morning we let Mandy and Sam sleep late because Sam seemed really tired last night. Once they woke up, Mandy fed us breakfast and the she started making breakfast for Sam. He stayed in bed for a little while Mandy cooked. After breakfast they went outside to work. Mandy used the bush whacker and went to work on several bushes, while Sam pulled weeds and picked up Mandy’s mess.

When Mandy came inside, she changed and opened the window for us. We all went outside, and Mandy just sat down in the pool. After a little while, Mandy turned around and just dropped into the big tub. She started floating and was very still. Peyton and I started worrying about her and I went to check on her. She floated close to the edge of the pool, and I reached—very carefully—into the pool to sniff her fingers. She came back to life and I knew she was ok at that point. Peyton came to check her after I made sure she was fine. He talked to her for a while to confirm she was fine and then she started floating again. She floated for a very long time. Normally when Mandy is in the big tub, she swims or splashes around, but not today. It was very disconcerting. However, Sam eventually came out, and he swam some.

This afternoon, Mandy slept on the couch while Sam played on his computer. She was really out of it, because Sam was talking on the phone and making a whole bunch of noise and Mandy didn’t even budge.

Well, I am going to let dinner settle some more and then play with Peyton.
Elway

Absent People

2011-09-01T13:20:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon, when I slipped back into hiding, I must have hurt Mandy’s feelings because she left us. It was unusual for her to leave in the manner she did. She woke up from a nap, and quickly left the house. She mentioned something about going out with Sam, and that she would be home soon. Well, soon turned into hours and when she finally came back home we were well past worried. We greeted Mandy at the door to make sure everything was fine, and to let her know that it was way past dinner time!

Before Mandy did anything else, she fed us dinner. She apologized profusely for such a late dinner, and not only did she feed us a special can of food, she gave us some treats. Sam loved us too when he came home a few minutes after Mandy. We quickly forgave them since they were so seemingly sincerely sorry for the tardy meal.

This morning our people exhibited more unusual behavior. They woke up in the middle of the night and talked. They do this upon occasion, but it is always unusual. They did not talk about anything important—the weather, strange dreams, food, and seemingly unimportant topics. Eventually they went back to sleep, and slept until morning. However, Mandy dressed with Sam this morning and they left together! They were laughing and happy when they left, but Mandy normally only leaves with Sam on his days off. They were not gone a long time, so I am unsure where they could have gone.However, Mandy did bring back one of those cups of smelly brown liquid that she drinks. She has not been drinking that stuff lately, so I was surprised that she drank it today. However, she seemed in good spirits and has talked to several people on the phone and cleaned house today. We have stayed close to Mandy, but everything seems fine and everyone is happy. It is just unusual behavior for our people in the middle of the week.They do not normally break schedule and when they do, we are always surprised.

Mandy says this weekend is a long weekend. We are looking forward to spending time with our people. We have big plans for them, and I hope they follow our plans rather than their own. We would like to spend as much time as possible outside, so I hope they splash around in the big tub. I also hope the weather is nice. It has been slightly rainy, which Mandy likes -- she always sleeps when it rains. However, the rain has been coming when it is time for Mandy and Sam to splash around, so we have been unable to play outside.
Peyton

Nap Time

2011-08-31T12:41:00.000-05:00

Elway and I have chosen to take our naps in the bedroom these last few days. Mandy is feeling better so she does not need watched anymore. We have enjoyed our nap times tucked quietly away from prying eyes and it has been lovely.

Today I stayed with Mandy most of the morning before hiding away. She was kind and snuggly and I allowed her to love me as she pleased. However, once nap time came, I ran for hiding.

This is a short post today, as I have to sneak back into hiding before I am discovered.
Peyton

Oh the Messes We Make!

2011-08-29T12:39:00.000-05:00

This weekend was action packed. Mandy and Sam stayed busy for most all of it, and Peyton and I had to keep up. On Friday, Mandy and Sam left early in the morning, only to return home for a little bit so Mandy could nap for a short time. Then they played all afternoon doing silly people things—nothing fun or exciting like chasing Red Lightening Bug. On Saturday, Mandy and Sam woke up and enjoyed a relaxing morning before running some errands. When they came home, they worked some upstairs until some very noisy men came and started bringing stuff in the house. Peyton and I hid in the bedroom while these men worked upstairs. After they left, Mandy invited us to come upstairs, but then Sam pulled the evil mini-villain out and let him go to work on the stairs. Peyton and I retreated back into hiding and waited for Mandy to come rescue us. When she did, Sam chased us upstairs so we could see what all the commotion was about and all we saw was a new piece of furniture up there. Big deal. That night Peyton and I had to burn off some extra energy after being hidden away all day, so we chased each other around the house for almost an hour—and that’s when we made the big mess.

It happened so quickly, that I’m not entirely sure what happened. We were racing in or out of the bedroom, I don’t remember, but one of us, or maybe both of us, jumped up on the old radio and knocked all of the sea shells off. Mandy kept a huge dish full of sea shells on top of the radio. We knocked it off and broke several shells. It made a huge and terrible noise, and Peyton and I scattered in opposite directions. Mandy hunted us both down, and checked us over to make sure we were not hurt. Sam worked on cleaning up the shells, and Mandy joined in after she checked us over. Then they pulled out the Villain and sucked up all the little bitty pieces of sea shells.

Peyton was terribly upset about the whole incident, but Mandy made sure he calmed down before we went to bed. It took him a long time to relax. Mandy had to sing to him, and tell him it was ok. She really wasn’t upset about the sea shells. We felt awful, and have apologized profusely, but she says not to play up there again, and all will be fine.

Yesterday night, Sam and Mandy went into the bedroom, and we thought it was an early bedtime. Instead, they dressed for the big tub, and opened the window! It was dark outside and we all went outside and played in the dark! There were nighttime bugs all over the place, and Peyton and I were on high alert. Sam didn’t feel so great, so he went in and left Mandy to swim laps. He was working on something for the fishes, and we opted to guard Mandy. Then those two crazy kids decided it was bedtime. I don’t think they went to bed later than normal; it was just such an unexpected twist in events to enjoy a playtime in the dark!

This morning we tried to snuggle Sam into submission and convince him to stay home with us. However, he is not as easily persuaded as Mandy. Peyton even told Mandy that he wanted Sam to stay home, but Mandy could not talk Sam into staying home. So, I hope he does ok at work today. He was so tired this morning that we thought it would do him good to stay home and sleep. All well.

I’m off to sleep some. It was a busy weekend.
Elway

Tiny Clothes

2011-08-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon Mandy started doing some more laundry. This was strange because all of our laundry was done. Well, when she pulled the clothes out of the dryer, she folded them on the kitchen table--another strange behavior, normally she folds laundry in the bedroom. Well, these clothes are itty-bitty. I have no idea what could possibly fit in these clothes. I sure hope she’s not planning on dressing Peyton and I. We refuse to be dressed. Besides they look too small for us. Well, anyway, she did one load yesterday, and she’s done some more laundry today. Our kitchen table has tiny clothes all over it. So strange.

Mandy has returned to her regular workout routine. She took some time off when we had company, but she has completed her workouts everyday this week. This morning, I sat close by and cheered her on. Meow Mandy Meow! I tried to do some of her moves, but four paws makes these things a little harder.

Peyton and I got in a little bit of trouble last night for playing too rough. There was fur flying everywhere, and I guess maybe I was biting Peyton. But sometimes he deserves it. I mean, when he’s hogging the scratching post and I want to play, sometimes my only way of getting what I want is just to bite him in the rear. Of course, Mandy and Sam disagree with this, but I do it anyways. It always get’s Peyton off of whatever he’s on and instigates our playtimes.

Well, I’m off to nap for a while. It’s nap time, and I might try to snuggle Mandy into a nap. But don’t tell her. Sometimes a surprise snuggle works better than the planned naps.
Elway

Hard Work

2011-08-24T10:19:00.001-05:00

Mandy really did kick it into gear yesterday and she accomplished more than either Peyton or I thought. We helped for a while, but eventually she wore us out, and we only supervised her work.

Ok, so maybe I wasn't helping much, but at least I kept Mandy company.

I don't think Peyton helped much either though. He looks more like he's chillin' up there. It doesn't seem like a lot of motivation, but to give Mandy credit, she kept working.

I believe she has another list of things she would like to accomplish today. However, she has already been working upstairs in the room we are now allowed in. Sam brought up a large rectangular object this morning and Mandy put what I assume was a sheet on it. Then Sam put it in the giant cage. After Sam left for work, Mandy worked on putting very colorful objects in the cage and now, it doesn’t look so cage like. It actually looks rather cozy.

Last night when Sam came home from work, he joined Mandy in the big tub. They splashed around for a long time, and when they finally got out of the big tub, it was well past my dinner time. Peyton was not pleased at the lateness of our dinner, but we both ate every bite Mandy gave us. She says she is proud of us for eating her food. Her food has improved lately, and I really like the tuna dinner she makes us.

Well, I think it’s time to play some.
Elway

New Found Dedication

2011-08-23T09:58:00.000-05:00

Something big is going on here. Mandy continues to tell me that everything will be just fine and that she will love me forever, but sometimes it all makes me a little nervous. However, I am determined to show Mandy my dedication to these changes. Yesterday when Mandy was splashing around in the big tub, someone rang the door bell. Mandy did not hear, so when Sam came home last night he carried in a colossal box. Elway immediately turned tail and hid from this gigantic box. This behavior is highly unlike Elway, and it amused me. Because of my new found dedication to prove my loyalty to Mandy, regardless of changes, I helped Sam as he took the contents of the box out, and I supervised him as he put the item together.

Mandy left Sam after a few minutes and drove off in a huge rain storm. I believe she goes to teach someone about the noise maker, but I do not know for certain because I do not accompany her. However, when she returned, she was a little damp from the downpour and quickly changed clothes. Then she showed me what the item was that Sam put together. She picked me up and set me in the chair. Then she pushed me around the living room. Honestly, I was so surprised by this action that I sat in the chair and looked around the house as I allowed Mandy to push me around. It was rather relaxing. Elway did not agree, and quickly jumped out of the chair when it was his turn. One turn in the rolling chair was enough, and I do not believe I will need to try that again. The chair is very small. I am unsure what will be so tiny to fit in that chair, but Mandy and Sam do not seem worried.

It is still hot outside and I look forward to when Mandy will leave the windows open for Elway and I to play outside as we please, but we have enjoyed the time outside when Mandy and Sam splash around in the big tub. Yesterday Mandy played by herself, and Elway and I patrolled the area to keep Mandy safe. She says we are brave kitties and she appreciates our protection.

Mandy has been waking up regularly overnight, but last night she slept soundly. I was sleeping at the foot of the bed, so I knew everything was fine, but Elway became unnerved when Mandy slept through her first two waking times. So, he jumped on the bed, and climbed on her shoulder. He stuck his face clear up to her nose to make sure she was breathing. When Mandy woke up, she was surprised there was a kitty in her face. Relieved that Mandy was only sleeping, Elway curled up on her feet until she slowly dragged herself out of bed. The best part of Mandy’s middle of the night waking(s) is that she always gives us a few extra crunchies. I have noticed our morning crunchies have diminished in amount, but the middle of the night crunchies are much appreciated.

Well, Mandy really needs to clean house today. She has said it many times, and so rather than snuggling her into submission today, I believe I will assist her in cleaning. Perhaps Elway and I can take turns helping her. Although at some point we will probably need to hide from the evil villain.
Peyton

All is quiet

2011-08-17T15:44:00.001-05:00

Everyone has left and our house is quiet. Shrimp Dad, Mom With Cool Toys, and Ajulie left in the middle of the night! I heard people up moving around in the middle of the night. Mandy’s alarm went off and she let us out of the room only to let us watch the car being packed up and everyone leaving. The day before I had allowed everyone to shower me with affection, and I was sad to see that all my admirers were packing up. Shrimp Dad fed me goldfish tails while he ate the heads. I sure love those cheesy crackers! I allowed him to scratch my head later to say thank you for the tails. I even ran up the stairs and sang for everyone while Mandy banged on the noise maker.

After our house was empty, Mandy and Sam went back to bed. Then after a while, Sam started getting ready for work. It took him a great effort to wake Mandy. I even snuggled up next to her growing belly and allowed myself to be kicked, but Mandy did not budge. I do not believe Sam would have even tried to wake Mandy, except she prefers him to let her know he is leaving. Once Sam finally woke Mandy up, and he left for work, Mandy took it easy all day. Elway and I slept too, recovering from all of the extra play time we had with the visitors in our house. All of us were worn out, so when Sam came home it was not a surprise that we had an early bedtime. After sleeping almost all of yesterday and all night, I am feeling a little better and Mandy has actually accomplished some things today. However, I do miss the extra hands playing with me, but I enjoyed my watch this afternoon as Mandy napped. I snuggled in and stayed with her while she slept to make sure everything was fine. Now that she is awake, I am going to go sleep in my closet.
Peyton

Tiny Things

2011-08-14T16:36:00.001-05:00

Things have turned upside down here. Mom-With-Cool-Toys, Shrimp Dad, and Ajulie have really turned everything around. They keep their shoes next to the front door and I have more shoes to play with then ever before! Elway likes to try shoes on and he has gone to town trying everyone’s shoes on.

Yesterday Mom WCT, Ajulie and Mandy dressed up and left. When they came home, they brought in a ton of stuff and all of it was for something tiny. Mandy says that I should be excited, but all I know is that this stuff makes a mess! Mandy has cleaned it all up, but Shrimp Dad and Mom WCT put this thing together and Mandy and Sam rolled it into the bedroom. There are baskets on the bottom of the contraption and Elway and I like to play in those baskets. I am not sure what is on top, but before it was rolled away, I could stand on the couch next to it. I could see that it was like a bed in there. I do not know what could be so small to sleep in there besides either Elway or me, but Mandy says we should not get in there.

Today, Shrimp Dad was working in the room with my box. He has torn the white chair off of its spot and now there is a big hole in the floor! I am unsure why Shrimp Dad had to move the chair, or why there is a big hole in the floor, but it is unsettling. When someone knocked on the door this afternoon, I had to run past Shrimp Dad and the newly homeless white chair to find safety, and it was not pleasant. However, Sam and Mandy seem pleased with what Shrimp Dad is doing, and Sam is even helping him! So, it must all be acceptable.

Ajulie likes to play with me. Upon occasion, I allow her to dangle a toy in front of me and I swat at it to make her feel like she is worthy of my attention. She does an acceptable job of dangling toys, and I will continue to allow her to tempt me with toys as long as she does not touch me.

This afternoon Shrimp Dad walked past me, and I allowed him to scratch my nose. He showed the appropriate respect and pleasure, and I may allow him to show affection again.

I have enjoyed the extra company because they admire my beauty and it makes me feel ruggedly handsome.
Peyton

Full House or Fun House?

2011-08-12T12:43:00.000-05:00

I knew something was up Monday night when Sam and Mandy started getting ready for bed, but didn’t put on their PJ’s. Then the phone started dinging every few seconds, and I knew something was going to happen! When Sam and Mandy left the bedroom, I ran to the front window just in time to see headlights pull into our driveway. I ran back to the bedroom and hid until I heard voices in the house. Mom-With-Cool-Toys, Shrimp Dad and Ajulie were here! Mom WCT was true to her name. She brought a whole heap of cool toys! She pulled them out and started giving me toys to play with right then! I have played with all of my new toys and they are cool. Sam went into the bedroom and pulled Peyton out of hiding and made him come out to greet everyone. Mom WCT gave Peyton and toy mouse, and told him it was his toy. Peyton was rather snobbish at first, but he warmed up to the mouse and now plays with it. He likes to remind me that Mom WCT gave it to HIM, and Peyton gets very offended when I try and play with HIS mouse. My favorite toy, Mandy has already taken away. She only lets us play with it when someone is playing with us. It is a long stick with a string of feathers hanging off. It is great fun to play with that toy! I can eat the feathers, which is why Mandy says she has restricted the toy and probably because I gagged on it the other day. Sam thought he might have to perform kitty Heimlich.

Shrimp Dad has not had any shrimp yet. Poor Shrimp Dad. I told Mandy this morning that she should feed Shrimp Dad Shrimp! But she only smiled at me. Maybe he will be able to eat some yummy shrimp, than he can share with me! But even if he hasn’t had shrimp, he has been kind to share his food with me.

Ajulie plays with us too! She plays with my favorite new toy and makes sure I don’t eat the feathers. Yesterday she had to chase Peyton down and get a feather out of his mouth. It was pretty funny to watch. I rolled over and laughed at Peyton’s horrified face.

Shrimp Dad and Ajulie slopped some of that smelly goop on the walls, in the one room Mandy lets us go in upstairs. Last night, Mandy took me upstairs and let me in the room. You would not believe the changes! Nothing was left in the room except a bed in the middle of the room, and everything else was piled into a mess in the hallway! The room still smelled like that goopy stuff, but it was nicely done. Too bad I didn’t realize what they were doing. I could have helped.
Elway

Bye-Bye Boxes

2011-08-08T08:24:00.000-05:00

The boxes are gone. All of them! This weekend Mandy and Sam were upstairs cleaning out a closest and bringing several boxes down for Peyton and me to use as toys. We had more boxes to play with than ever before! Some of the boxes smelled like Mandy and Sam, plus other smells we were not used too. We enjoyed playing in the boxes, and Peyton and I played for hours with all the boxes. We set up obstacle courses and played tag. But now they the games are gone—a mere shadow of our imagination. Even the big box that Sam played in is gone. It is a sad day in our household.

Something is going on here. Sam and Mandy are cleaning things up like company is coming. I can’t imagine who is coming, but whenever they clean upstairs people show up. Other than cleaning out the boxes upstairs, and doing a little bit of yard work, Sam and Mandy slept all weekend. Mandy sleeps a lot. I feel like that is all she does any more. She still tries to play with us, but it’s just not the same.

Well, I think Mandy has a lot planned for today, because she started doing stuff around the house early. She says kids are coming today to play in our big tub. Maybe I will watch them from the safety of a window.

Oh, and Kara! We were thrilled to hear from you! We love all the comments, and would love to hear from more of you.
Elway

2011-08-04T09:11:00.001-05:00

It’s hot here. Mandy says it is hot in a lot of places, but every morning when we wake up, the windows are all fogged up. It is humid, but we are still enjoying playing outside when Mandy is splashing around in the Big Tub. Good times.

Mandy has left the big box for us. I’m not sure how much longer we will be able to keep the box, but we enjoy playing in the box with Sam.

One of the games we like to play is keep away. Sam takes some of our bouncy balls into the box. My goal is to catch the ball and run away with it or to slap it away from him.

I sure have fun playing in the box with Sam.

Mandy and Sam have continued working on the room upstairs. Mandy lets us in the room while she works. We are not allowed in all of the rooms upstairs, but we are making progress. It is just a matter of time before I know we can break Mandy and we will have full run of the entire house! Peyton doesn’t think Mandy will ever cave and let us in the he wants in, but I think we will get what we want…eventually. Yesterday Mandy tore into a huge box and spread stuff all over the room. She worked for a while, and then left a huge mess! She closed the door, came downstairs and took a nap. She sure has turned into a lazy girl. She sleeps a lot, and works only a little. I try to snuggle her, but that tummy of hers is getting bigger by the day, and it sure moves around a lot. I try to snuggle her feet since I know Mandy won’t kick me.

Oh, by the way, we have changed our settings, and hopefully it will be easier for you to leave comments. We love to hear from you!

Elway

Guilty Pleasure

2011-07-30T08:58:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been terribly fun. Sam and Mandy have been very playful, and we have enjoyed playing with them. Sam has been in the box playing with Elway. Mandy took pictures, as there were many requests to see them, however, when Sam saw the pictures he vetoed them, and said Mandy could take some more later today. Red Lightening Bug has been very active. I have enjoyed jumping and running after him. He is an allusive littler bugger, and neither Elway nor I have had any success in catching him, but I believe that is what makes it so fun.

This morning, Sam woke up early and dressed leaving Mandy in bed. He slipped out of the bedroom, and although Mandy said good-bye to him, she did not budge. I stayed with Mandy hoping to calm her when she woke up and Sam was gone. I knew she would be upset. However, the silly girl did not move. She slept the whole time he was gone. When he returned, he woke her up to breakfast in bed! Mandy said she was terribly spoiled, and they watched TV and ate breakfast in bed. It was not anything I cared to partake in, no eggs or bacon, so I stood guard at the door and Elway sat at their feet. When they finally got out of bed, they fed us breakfast.

I have a small confession to make. I love music--that is no surprise to anyway who knows me. I love beautiful music, like classical, opera, sacred, or Broadway music that tells a story. However, I have found something else I enjoy. It all started last Sunday when Sam and Mandy were watching the Sunday Morning News while they dressed for church. There was a story about a music group and I was thoroughly enjoying watching the story about this band called Journey. They have a fascinating story and I quickly fell in love with this band. However Mandy turned the TV off in the middle of the story. I yelled at her and she quickly took me into the other room, so I could finish watching the story about this music group. Then everyday this week, there has been an advertisement on the morning news that this group was going to perform on Friday. Mandy and Sam never watch the Friday performance on the news, but I begged Mandy all week long to let me watch this concert. So when Friday showed up, I came running into watch the news. As soon as the band was introduced I jumped down to the ground and started singing their most beloved song--“Don’t Stop Believing!” I sang loud enough that even Sam heard me in the other room. But I did not care. I sang loudly and unabashedly. When Journey finished their performance, Mandy called Mom with Cool Toys on the phone, and I sang for her too! Now, as I said before I do not normally indulge in such music, but this group just might be my guilty pleasure.

Well, it is well past time to start the day, and I need to encourage Sam and Mandy to get a move on it.
Peyton

Rain Rain Go Away

2011-07-27T10:29:00.000-05:00

It has been raining for over 24 hours now. Granted, we need the rain, but I love sleeping in the sunshine and the rain is depressing. Yesterday Mandy sat around in the dark all day. She even cleaned house in the dark, but thankfully today she has turned on some lights. At least it looks like day time in the house, even if it is dark and stormy outside.

Yesterday to distract Peyton and me from the nasty rumblings and lightening outside Red Lightening Bug came out to play. We were able to play with him for a good portion of the afternoon, and it really did help to relieve some of the rainstorm blues. Not to mention it really helps to burn some calories!

Last night it was my turn to snuggle Mandy and Sam. Peyton says I don’t share the responsibility of snuggling, so after consistent nagging from my brother I climbed onto the bed and fulfilled my duty to snuggle Mandy. I snuggled into her knees and slept for a few hours. Mandy really did zonk out and slept soundly while I snuggled her. Maybe Peyton will get off my back for a few days now.

Oh, Mandy and Sam received a package this weekend! It came in a HUGE box! They took everything in the box upstairs and have been looking at goop samples again. I think they are going to be slopping that smelly stuff on the walls again. But anyway, Mandy left the box for me. It is so big I can sleep under the flap of the box and no one can see me! The box is so big that both Peyton and I fit in the box and still we have room to play! Last night Sam crawled in the box and played with me. What fun! He was sure funny looking as he tried to hide in the box. It wasn’t quite big enough, but we sure had fun playing with him.

Well, I think I will chase Peyton some. Maybe we can chase away the rainy day blues.
Elway

Broken People

2011-07-22T10:44:00.001-05:00

I think it is possible that we may have broken Mandy yesterday. Our goal was to encourage her to stay home and sleep by snuggling her into submission. She desperately need to rest, and she did. All day! However, when Sam came home Mandy was out of it. Sam fixed dinner since Mandy was waiting for Sam in the big tub. I do not believe she knew it was so late in the day. So she cleaned up while Sam grilled the meat. It was the first signs of her being loopy all day. Then after dinner, Sam encouraged Mandy to go to bed. Those crazy people went to bed very early. I mean, so early Elway and I did not enjoy our evening play time. Well, Mandy fell asleep quickly and she was sound asleep. It was my night to snuggle her, and my job was easy. Even if she did wake up a few times, she quickly feel back asleep.

Sam, however, was a completely different story! He stayed awake forever! I was not sure he would ever fall asleep. He watched TV late into the night and then slept late this morning. Mandy woke up at their normal time ready to eat breakfast, which made me thankful. So, Sam dragged himself out of bed to eat with Mandy, but not long after breakfast, those two crazies went back to bed and slept some more! In fact, I think they might both still be asleep! They are going to sleep the entire day away! Our goal was to keep Mandy home, not turn her into a sleeping machine, and we certainly did not intend to draw Sam into the web of sleep. I am unsure if life will ever be the same. I have done everything possible to wake these two people, but they are like rocks—totally unresponsive. They must really need some sleep.
Peyton

Making Mandy Lazy

2011-07-21T12:21:00.000-05:00

One of the best ways to ensure that Mandy doesn’t accomplish much in her day is to be affectionate kitties. Today, Mandy had big plans. While she was on the phone, I heard her tell Mom-With-Cool-Toys all the places she wanted to go today. So Peyton and I made a pack. We are being extremely loving and very snuggly. This ensures that Mandy stays on the couch and rests. She has not been sleeping well, and so Peyton and I have been drawing straws to see who has to snuggle her and try and get to fall back asleep in the middle of the night. Peyton “won” the first night and snuggled Mandy until she fell asleep. But last night I won. Unfortunately, Mandy was not only wide awake, but she was also chatty. She wondered the house for a while but eventually came back to bed. She didn’t keep Sam up long, but it took both Peyton and I snuggling her on the bed to force her to fall back asleep. And even at that, it took a while.

Snuggling Mandy is not as comfortable as it once was. Her tummy is getting larger, and not only that, it kicks us. So when we snuggle Mandy we are in for a beating. We have tried to convince the tummy we are friends, but I think the tummy thinks we are fiends. We blame the tummy for Mandy’s mid-night wakings and lack of sleep.

I am fairly confident that our affection has Mandy settled in for the afternoon. Her eyelids are getting droopy and she looks like she could use a nap. I bet she will be asleep soon.
Elway

Stressed-Out Morning

2011-07-19T16:19:00.000-05:00

This morning, everything seemed fine. Mandy played on the computer, worked out, and then dressed for the day. I should have known she was up to something, but I was naively turning a blind eye to her suspicious behavior. It seemed like out of no-where she grabs me and closes me in the small room and comes back with the cat cage. I was shoved in the cage and taken to the car. The whole time Mandy is apologizing and telling me how much she loves me. Yeah right.

She puts me in the car and takes me for a ride. I screamed at her, and called her several names. But then the car turns in a different direction and I think I am safe since we are not going to the cat doctor; however, Mandy has a surprise for me. She takes me to a different cat doctor! Mandy said she was only doing this because she loves me, and wants to talk to a doctor about my attacks. I had another one this weekend, and Mandy was very worried!

When we arrive, Mandy carries me into this new building. It was so noisy outside! A guy was there, pushing around a grass eater, and there were dogs! When we get inside the building those big creatures were thumping their tails like maniacs! Perhaps they cannot control their tails the way I can. Sam came and joined us, and both Mandy and Sam petted me while we sat in the waiting room. It was rather relaxing to be loved by both my people!

After a while, we were called into see the cat doctor, and Mandy already knew her. She was friendly and she was gentle with me. The new cat doctor looked over all of my tests and said I was perfectly healthy! She told Mandy I was well taken care of, and obviously loved. She is smart lady!

I was very thankful to crawl back in my cat cage, and Sam carried me to the car. As soon as Mandy jumped in the car, she opened the cage and I crawled into the back seat. Once we arrived home, Mandy picked me up and carried me inside. She told me I was a brave and beautiful kitty and gave me several treats! Once she finished giving me treats, I starred hate holes at her, but eventually made up with her. I sat next to her this afternoon and hit her with my tail. Perhaps I could give those dogs a lesson on how to properly use a tail.

However, in order to make up for her indiscretion of taking me to the cat doctor, Mandy bought shrimp for our dinner tonight! It smelled delicious as she cooked it, and she let Elway and me have a few bites as she cut it up! It was scrumptious!
I cannot wait for dinner!
Peyton

Deserted, Replaced, Invasion

2011-07-15T15:06:00.000-05:00

It’s been so long since I was able to update you on the goings on here at home. First of all, early Monday morning Sam and Mandy woke up and left us. We had been preparing for their departure for a long time, and both Peyton and I were relieved when they finally left.

Clara came to take care of us a few times, and then strangers came into our house! They came in the back door and moved in! Mandy told us they were coming, but honestly I was still surprised. Phil and Stephanie had a half-sized with them. Her name was Tessa. Although it took me a long while to warm up to them, I finally introduced myself. They were all very friendly. They gave me lots of treats and fed me and played with me. In someways it was likt having a replacement family! I loved it, even it Peyton never warmed up to them. They splashed around in the big tub like Mandy and Sam do, and I think they had fun. I always like to watch the half-sized humans splash around. They always look like they have the most fun. Maybe someday they will come back and visit me again. They were very friendly to play with us, and before they left Stephaine put all our toys up. We left them right where she put them so Mandy would have a clean house to come home too. When Phil, Stephanie and Tessa showed up, we had our toys spread all over the house! Mandy left most of our toys in the bedroom, but what fun is it to play in just one room, when we have free reign of the whole house?!

Mandy and Sam returned from their long vacation just as they promised. We greeted them immediately when they walked in the house. As soon as I heard Mandy I ran to greet her in the kitchen. She picked me up and snuggled me and I meowed to be put down. However, secretly I loved her exuberant hug and stuck close by the rest of the night.

While Mandy and Sam were gone, Peyton and I always try to find a little something we can do to irritate Mandy. This time, we opted to sleep on top of the noise maker. Both Mandy and Sam have tried to buff out our paw prints, but just to rub it in a little more, Peyton decided to sleep on top of the noise maker yesterday. Mandy was furious and told Peyton only bad cats sleep on the noise maker. We have not touched the noise maker again, but since it made her so upset, we will remember this trick the next time they go out of town.

I had fully intended to update you on all these happenings sooner, but Monday we had an invader and we had internet difficulties yesterday. I found the intruder first, but when Mandy came to see what I was playing with, the invader was hidden. I wondered if perhaps I had made up the scenario, and went about my business. However, a little while later, Peyton found the intruder and chased him around the entryway, in front of the front door and around into the dining room. Mandy thought it was a bug, and when she got close enough to kill it, found it was a lizard! And boy could that lizard move! He ran behind the china cabinet so fast, Mandy could hardly bend down to catch him. Peyton and I took turns guarding the cabinet to make sure the lizard didn’t escape. However, he did make a bee line for the couch and hid under there for a while. At one point the lizard escaped and hid under a box. What we didn’t realize was that if we jumped on the box we’d squish the lizard. Once he was dead, we hid in the bedroom until Mandy found the lizard. She wasn’t upset, because she knew we were only playing with the lizard. We really didn’t mean to kill it and that we felt very remorseful. He was great fun to chase, and I was sad to see him die. RIP lizard. However, the lizard was taken outside for burial. Hopefully the other lizards saw what happened to their friend and will keep it as a warning not to enter our domain. Even if he was fun to chase, that lizard was still an intruder. And it is my job to keep intruders out of my home!
Elway

One of Those Days

2011-07-03T19:08:00.001-05:00

Today has been very busy. Mandy and Sam slept a little late to make it to church but managed to make it anyway. However Peyton jumped off the bed wrong and kind of hurt his paw. He cried and Mandy was very concerned about his health. Both Mandy and Sam doted on Peyton trying to make sure that he was ok. Eventually they tucked him in for a nap, and gave him an ice pack. He napped and now he is feeling much better. He has come out to play with Red Lightening Bug, and he ate all of his dinner. He’s jumped around with Red so I know he’s fine.

Mandy has put more boxes under the bed for me. I love having places to hide under the bed. Mandy also got the Chi Gong out and has put the head under the bed for me. I love to snuggle that thing.

Mandy and Sam have spent the afternoon doing small things around the house. This evening they went swimming and both Peyton and I enjoyed some time outside. It was hot, but Mandy and Sam seemed to stay cool in the big tub.

Peyton is ready to play with Red Lightening Bug again. I think I will see if I can join in on the fun.
Elway

Busy Times

2011-07-02T13:17:00.001-05:00

Something is up. I don’t know exactly what is going on yet, but I am positive people are coming. Yesterday Mandy cleaned up stairs, and she let me help. I have only been allowed in the room once before when she was slopping goop on the walls, and have never been allowed in again. Yesterday was a special day. I wasn’t allowed in all of rooms, only one and only briefly, but it was fun.

Then Mandy cleaned really strange things. She sat on the floor and scooted around cleaning the baseboards. I sat with her, and talked to her while she worked. Then she went outside and played in the big tub. Both Peyton and I went outside with Mandy. We played in the sun, and allowed some birds to yell at us. We ignored them, and went about our business. It was beautiful outside.

This morning, Sam cleaned our littler box really well. Now our box is sparkling clean. Mandy worked a little outside and then Sam joined her. He pushed around the grass eating machine, while Mandy pulled stuff out of the ground. When they came back inside, they were hot. They drank several glasses of water and cooled off briefly. Then they opened the window and we played outside while they splashed around in the big tub. Mandy believes the neighbors have recently acquired an outdoor stereo system, and we listened to beautiful music and soaked up the sun. Today they were listening to patriotic music, and Peyton sang to one of the songs while he was outside.

Sam and Mandy have been feeding us a special treat every day. It is pumpkin. Mandy read that pumpkin is a great source of fiber for cats, and we are pleased she has offered us such a wonderful snack. Yum! Meow!

I am also pleased that Mandy is finished with her computer project. Sam brought the printer out for Mandy to use, and she printed off tons of paper. Then she disappeared and come back later with a book. She was pleased with the final product and now her project is complete.

Well, I’m off to take a nap. It’s been an active morning.
Elway

Homemade dinners

2011-06-30T14:11:00.001-05:00

So Mandy has been cooking more cat food for us. I like it better when she doesn’t put rice in our food. I think she has gotten the message, and she was telling Sam there will be no more rice, or maybe a different form of rice. That pleases me. However, both Peyton and I eat Mandy’s homemade food for us. Yesterday she cooked chicken, carrots, and rice for our dinner. It turned out pretty yummy even if it had rice in it.

I think there might be more company coming again. Mandy has been cleaning upstairs, and that is always a sure sign of company. I wonder who it will be now.

This afternoon, Mandy was working on her computer project, when she growled and set the computer down. She came and found me and lured me out of hiding with a toy. We played for a long time, both of us burning off the stress of this crazy computer project she is working on. I have no idea what she is doing, but it requires her phone and the computer. I hope she is almost done. Life is much more fun with Mandy is not preoccupied on the phone; however sanity play breaks are always super fun! And Mandy always takes time to play with us, and thanks us for the breaks when we interrupt her. Today, Peyton even came out and got in on the tail end of my playtime. It was relaxing! Mandy is enjoying this project, but I like it better when she focuses on us more--even if it means interrupted naps.

Well, I think I need to catch my breath after running around and enjoy a cool drink of water. I imagine Mandy will take a dip in the big tub before long. She has been waiting for Sam to come home before indulging in the big tub. It’s nice to play outside in the evening, but it sure has meant late dinners this week. All well.
Elway

Rainy Phenomenon

2011-06-29T09:21:00.000-05:00

Our weather has been less than predictable lately, with afternoon and evening storms blowing in and out of town. Yesterday, it rained in the morning, and then again in the afternoon and then again in the evening. However, between rain storms, it was beautiful outside. In fact, it is the strange phenomenon of the afternoon storm that I want to tell you about. Mandy was working on her computer on this crazy project she has been working on for weeks now, and I was napping in front of the fireplace when the rain started pounded on the skylight. It was loud and woke me up, but it only briefly sounded like it might explode into the house.

I looked at the front door, just as the sun came peeping through the clouds. The bright light created a beautiful rainbow all over the front entryway. I turned around to see if the sun was reflecting off the big tub, when I noticed it was still raining out back! Raindrops were still dancing all over the surface of our patio! So, while the sun was shining through the windows of the front door, it was pouring out back! What a strange phenomenon!

Well it is crunchie time, and I cannot let Mandy forget.
Peyton

Late Night Storm

2011-06-28T08:57:00.000-05:00

Last night, after Mandy and Sam crawled in bed and Mandy went to sleep, a nasty storm rolled through. Sam was still awake, so he checked the TV to follow the storm. There was loud thunder and lots of lightening. It was so loud that all the noise woke Mandy up. She wandered around the bedroom and picked me up. I snuggled into her because I hate such nasty storms. She set me on the bed between Sam’s legs and I stayed safe and warm during the storm. I was glad when it passed, but I stayed on the bed for a long time snuggling Sam. He is always so nice to move his legs so we are comfortable. Elway laughed at me, but I am always thankful when Mandy is here during bad storms because she makes me feel safe.

Yesterday evening, Mandy went outside and we were able to play in the twilight. She pulled weeds and cleaned up the patio. I helped her by talking to her and together we enjoyed the nice evening. The sky was a beautiful orange while we worked and it was just a very pleasant time.

Today Mandy says she could use my help to clean house and play round some more. Red Lightening Bug has been given new batteries, and so we are able to play with him, even during the day now! I often ask Mandy to play with Red and she will wake him up for me. It has been fun to enjoy our friend! He is so bright!
Peyton

No Help Wanted

2011-06-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

Last night after dinner, Mandy and Sam started tearing apart the kitchen. They were cleaning everything—they do this every so often, so it is not a strange behavior. I went into the kitchen to help Mandy, because I always help her, but Sam shooed me away. I left, but thought I’d try another route into the kitchen. I slithered in undetected by Sam and quickly went to Mandy. She let me help for a while, until I started to go behind the fridge. (Sam had pulled the fridge out and cleaned underneath it.) Then Mandy picked me up and snuggled me. She said I was a huge help, but that I couldn’t go behind the fridge because the floor was wet. How strange! She set me down and continued working. I figured I could help dry the floor so I tried one more time to get behind the fridge. Then Mandy picked me up and carried me out of the kitchen. She kissed me on the head, and said that I could not go behind the fridge and set me down far away from the kitchen! What?! Mandy always needs my help. This was strange behavior!

This morning Mandy has been finishing up in the kitchen while Sam has been working outside. Peyton has been watching Sam. He is using some tool to cut down the tall grass around the big tub. Mandy is in the kitchen, but I have stayed far away from her. She obviously doesn’t want my help. She has tried to coax me out of bed, but I refuse. She didn’t want my help last night, so today she doesn’t get any help.

Well, it’s raining outside so I can’t imagine Sam will work much longer. But I doubt the much desired dip in the big tub is in their future since it is raining. Mandy did say she was going to make us more food today! She said she bought us turkey this time! I can’t wait to try it!
Elway

Sam's Sleep Schedule

2011-06-23T13:06:00.000-05:00

I do not believe Sam has been sleeping well lately. He wakes up early and slips out of bed, careful not to wake Mandy and then goes outside and works. He does not normally do this. He generally stays in bed until he has to dress for work. This morning he went out back to sweep, and we were not invited. It was very strange indeed. Elway and I have tried to help Sam sleep later by playing in the middle of the night. Last night we were so rambunctious that Mandy actually climbed out of bed to break us up. However, even our middle of the night fights do not allow Sam to sleep later.

Today it is very still in our house. The house is clean for the weekend. I love when the house is clean. Mandy has the music playing, and I am enjoying the soothing sounds of the violin. What a relaxing afternoon!
Peyton

Godzilla Kitty Strikes!

2011-06-22T20:07:00.000-05:00

Life has absolutely been turned upside down. My favorite hiding place has been blocked, and I have no place that feels safe. Mandy has been helping me to find a safe place, and it has helped to clam me down. She has showed me many places I can hide, and I have picked my favorite. For now.

Yesterday I needed that hiding place. There were so many strangers in my house I lost count! And they all climbed up the stairs and down the stairs, over and over again. They made loud noises and banged on walls. They even used tools that sounded like they were trying to tear down the house. It was terrifying! It was so scary that Sam was home, presumably to protect Mandy since he knew Peyton and I would hide. Anyway, our house started heating up and my hiding spot really heated up.
Mandy was very cautious about the heat though, and she continually brought me water to drink. When I didn’t drink what she thought was enough, she’d put water on my nose. She did the same for Peyton too. One time when she checked on me, she said I was way too hot. So she came back a few minutes later with an ice pack! I snuggled up to the ice pack and used it as a pillow or slept on top of it. It helped to cool off my hiding spot! I felt so much better. Mandy says I am spoiled, but I know I am loved. Sam said it was his idea, and not to give all the credit to Mandy.

Last night, when our house was finally free of all of the strangers we came out to eat dinner and had a huge treat. Mandy had made us dinner! It didn’t come out of a can; she said she made it just for us! Peyton and I were a little skeptical at first, but that dinner was delicious! We cleaned our plate, and I even licked up the floor! We enjoyed the same special treat for breakfast, and we cleaned our plate better than normal. What a yummy treat!

This morning, I was sitting in my kitchen window, when I noticed that all of the trinkets Mandy keeps in the hall were out of their spot. So I decided to look at everything. Unfortunately I was more like Godzilla trampling a city. In a doomsday disaster, I knocked over Big Ben and it broke in half. Mandy came in and told me I’d turned into Godzilla. I felt awful! I was so remiss that she scratched my head, and told me not to worry about it. I did make sure I stayed clear of everything else, and was thankful when Mandy put everything away. Now the trinket cupboard is sparkling clean.

Well, Peyton and I have slept all afternoon, because Mandy did too. So now it is time to play.
Elway

Glorious Thursday

2011-06-16T17:06:00.000-05:00

Today has been especially nice as far as Thursdays are concerned. Mandy has been working on her computer off and on all day typing things, so I am thankful for a quick minute to snatch the computer away and tell you we had a wonderful day.

Mandy cleaned house, went to the store and bought me treats, and then we all napped this afternoon. Mandy has been napping with us in the afternoon a great deal lately, but it is nice to have her still because then we are able to sleep in one location for a longer period of time.

When Mandy went to the store today, she left the music on for me. Today I enjoyed the sounds of a beautiful opera. It was all in a strange language, so I did not understand the words, but the music was meaningful and emotional. I enjoyed every minute of it.

Just a little while ago, Mandy joined me on the floor and scratched my chin. She said only kings and princes received such majestic treatment, and I purred loudly to acknowledge my royalty.

The big tub guys came back today. They normally only come once a week and they were already here this week. Mandy was sleeping on the couch when they showed up, so I woke her up to tell her people were in our backyard. She said I was a very brave guard cat and thanked me for waking her. Believe me, she is not an easy one to wake. She went outside to talk to the men. They put something strange in the water that made it blue. However, it did not stay blue for long and now our big tub is clearing up and I hope it looks beautiful! Mandy was unable to swim this morning, even though we begged her too. She said that it is better not to swim when there is thunder. She is right, but we were looking forward to our outside play time with Mandy. Maybe tomorrow we will be able to play again!

Well, Sam might be home soon. Mandy put dinner on to cook a little while ago and it is starting to smell good, so I hope Sam does not take long to come home. I am ravenous!
Peyton

Saddest Story

2011-06-15T10:53:00.000-05:00

Elway is in morning, so I am here to report the saddest of news. Ever since we were kittens we have slept inside the box springs of Sam and Mandy’s bed. But Sunday night, Sam tore the bed apart and put down wood. Then he put the box springs on top of the wood and totally blocked all the entrances to our sanctuary. We can no longer sleep in the box springs. Sam says it is for our safety, but Elway is crushed. Mandy says they had to block it, in case I had another seizure. She wants to make sure I am not inside the bed. However, Elway is completely devastated. He napped every afternoon in the bed, and it was his safe spot when we had company. Mandy could not pull him out of the box springs they way she can pull me out. He is much more limber than I am, and can jump way up high and balance on who-knows-what just out of Mandy’s reach.

Out of protest, Elway crawled in the box springs before Sam could put it on the wood. Elway figured if he could stay in the box springs out of protest that maybe they would not be able to put the box springs back. But Mandy called him, and he went running. He must have forgotten he was protesting. Sam snatched up the box springs, and now it is closed forever.

Yesterday, Elway tried buttering up to Mandy to convince her to open the bed back up. He has refused to sleep with Mandy and Sam and has opted to sleep on the floor in protest. Last night Mandy brought it a cat bed for him, but he wouldn’t sleep in the bed. Mandy is distressed by Elway’s protest, but she is relentless in this decision, and I do not believe anything will change her mind.

Elway is unable to hold a grudge for long and he has been on bug patrol. He found a big bug and would not allow it entry into our home. Sam was pleased with Elway’s discovery and praised him for his determination and attentiveness to protecting our home. I figured if Elway was going to gain so much praise for such a small feat, I could top his discovery. When Mandy was in the big tub yesterday, I found a large lizard crawling on our screen. I cried and chased the lizard as high up the screen as I could possibly chase him. Mandy said my discovery of the lizard was courageous. The lizard might have been as big as my tail, and he was rather intimidating. It did take a valiant cat to keep that lizard out of our area.

After I chased the lizard off, I helped Mandy fold laundry. I jumped on the stack of clean clothes, and dug through to make sure it was safe for her to fold. Then I held the shirts while she folded them. She said I was a huge help. As she pulled each article of clothing from the pile, I attacked it to make sure it was safe and then helped hold it while she folded it. It was hard work, and Elway took over when Mandy folded the second load.

This morning, Elway found Sam’s Birthday balloon. I was hoping we would never have another balloon in the house, but apparently they give Mandy and Sam great pleasure. This balloon is tied to a chair in the kitchen, but when Elway gets on the table, the balloon moves, and chases Elway away. It is rather humorous to watch. I have been watching the balloon. It appears to leave me alone, as long as I do not cross into its territory.

I am hoping Mandy will jump in the big tub this morning. She opened the window for us yesterday, and it was lovely. Hopefully she will do that again today.

Oh, and before I go, Mandy says today is a special day. Bomom and Bonedad have been married for 60 years. She says that is an extraordinary thing, and so I thought I should say Happy Anniversary!
Peyton

Relaxing Weekend

2011-06-12T07:42:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was relaxing, and helped to cement the fact that all our company has gone home. Mandy and Sam slept really late and then had a relaxing morning before Sam started pushing the grass eater around. Mandy talked to Mom-With-Cool-Toys and Shrimp Dad on the computer. I could see them, and Peyton stared at the computer for a long time wondering what on earth was going on. When Sam came in from pushing the grass eater, Mandy grabbed Peyton and me and put us outside. Then she jumped in the big tub and waited for Sam. They splashed around in the big tub for a while, but Peyton and I cried and cried, begging to be let in the house. Eventually, Mandy climbed out of the big tub and let us in the house. Then she jumped back in the big tub and those crazy kids splashed around some more.

Yesterday afternoon, Mandy and Sam snuggled up on the couch and Mandy went to sleep. She was snuggled up next to Sam and he was nice enough not to move so he wouldn’t wake Mandy up. He finally went to sleep too. Poor guy must have sat there for an hour, and I don’t think he was extremely comfortable. But Mandy woke up and moved so Sam could find a more comfy position. He’s so nice to her. I would have wiggled free and left.

Today Mandy and Sam woke up early and ate breakfast. I think it is because they slept so much yesterday. But honestly I prefer when they wake up early because I like to eat breakfast early. Hopefully today is as calm and relaxing as yesterday.
Elway

Luggage, Company and Birthday!

2011-06-10T18:15:00.000-05:00

You would not believe the week we’ve had! I told you last time that Bomom and Bonedad have a way of stealing Mandy, and they didn’t fail this time either. They stole Mandy and Sam away for several days! It was so lonely without them. However, Clara came to take care of us, and she feeds us lots of extra crunchies! She is very nice to us, and spent lots of time with us!

Finally, Mandy and Sam came home with the smelliest luggage they’ve had in a long time. In fact, everyone came here! Bomom, Bonedad, Ann and their two friends -- Peggy and Doc and they all had smelly luggage. I don’t know where they went, but it sure smelled funny. I was never more happy to see clothes from a suit case go into the washing machine! We let Mandy and Sam know how much we missed them though. I slept on the bed all night with Mandy snuggled up close to her.

It does appear as though everyone has left. They all trickled out and different times and I haven’t seen anyone in over 24 hours, so I am fairly confident they have all gone home.

Yesterday when Mandy came home, she cleaned up the kitchen and TV rooms quickly and then started working on dinner. She said it was a special dinner because Sam was turning 30! Happy Birthday Sam! When Sam came home from work, they put on their pajamas and the sun was still up! They lounged around the house like lazy bums. After a while, Mandy light a candle and sang to Sam! They ate a fancy dessert and then Sam opened his cards and present! Afterwards, Sam plugged in this cool frame with pictures of me in! I watched as the pictures changed and there were lots of pictures of Mandy and Sam. Then there were pictures of Peyton and I as kittens and all of the fun times we’ve had together as a family. Sam watched the frame change pictures for a long time, and then Mandy and Sam went to bed. Happy Birthday Sam! It didn’t appear to be very exciting, but I hope you had a wonderful day anyway.

Mandy said today was suppose to be Sam’s special day, but I think something came up because when Mandy came home she smelled like work. So, I think she must have been at work with Sam and not out celebrating. I will have to make sure I make an extra effort to play with Sam tonight since he had to work!

Well, the house is slowly being put back together. Vacuum came out tonight, and I stayed in the kitchen the whole time he was out because Mandy said as soon as Vacuum went away we could have dinner. I didn’t let that evil villain bully me away from my dinner plate! I had to make sure Mandy didn’t forget to feed me! She didn’t, she feed us our dinner and it was delicious!

Well, this has been an exceedingly long post, but I had a lot to catch up on. If I think of more, I will fill you in later.
Elway

Morning with Mandy

2011-06-01T09:59:00.000-05:00

Peyton was sorely mistaken--our company has not left. And yesterday they stole Mandy for the whole day. She had a deceptively lazy morning only to rush out the door. She was gone all day and only returned to feed us a late dinner but then she rushed out again and didn’t return home until bed time! This morning Mandy is taking it slow again, but as we found out yesterday, that may be deceptive.

When Mandy returned to feed us dinner she brought Bomom and Ann with her. I was thrilled to see them because Peyton left most of the dinner for me. Ann has been wonderful to have around. She is very stealth-like and she slips me food under the table. No one even notices, and I am able to try whatever Ann is eating.

This morning we are enjoying taking lots of time to snuggle Mandy. When she pulled out her workout mat I sat next to her and tried to stretch with her. It was hard work, and when we finished, Mandy snuggled me and scratched me behind the ears. She said I did a great job!

Well, Peyton and I have been playing this morning, and I think I see the opportunity for a sneak attack.
Elway

British Invasion

2011-05-31T08:17:00.000-05:00

The last several days have brought numerous changes. Elway and I had mostly figured out that Mandy was company cleaning so we guessed someone was coming but it happened in an unusual manner.

Well, Wednesday night rather than getting ready for bed, Sam and Mandy dressed and left the house. When they returned, I was waiting for them by the front door, and they had a lady with them. She had the most unusual accent. I have never heard such a sound before. She stayed with us for a few days, and I have deemed her most lovely. We call her Ann because that is what Mandy called her. Ann admired me and laughed when I played with Red Lightening Bug. She was very pleasant to be around. Mandy said Ann is from a very far away from a place across the big water called Britain. Ann said I am exceedingly handsome!

Ann and Mandy played together for several days running here and there. Sam even participated in some of the fun and all three jumped in the big tub. I watched them from the window.

However, our Invasion did not end there and included more than the British. On Saturday, Sam left Mandy and Ann and went away. Later Mandy and Ann left too. Ann took all of her things, so I was not sure if I would see her again. But later that afternoon, Mandy, Sam, and Ann returned home with more visitors! They brought Bomom and Bonedad.

Yesterday must have been some kind of holiday. Sam stayed home with Mandy and they slept, baked, cleaned house and even woke us up from our naps to drag us outside while they splashed around in the big tub. Elway and I were less than thrilled to be awoken from our nap only to be dragged outside in the heat.

Then last night, all the people came back only they had two more people! There were so many people here, I could not keep track up them. Elway did not seem to mind the extra people. He walked around the table while they ate dinner and picked up bites off the floor. He said dinner was delicious, and I managed to sneak a bite from Mandy a little later. Elway sure had the right idea. I sat in the bedroom doorway and watched everyone from a great distance. At one point, Mandy picked me up and brought me out for everyone to admire me. I was uncomfortable, but I allowed everyone to look at me. However, Bomom dared to touch me and I told her just what I thought about that! She laughed and withdrew her hand. Mandy said I was being snobby, but to be honest I did not even know she was behind me when she touched me and it was just startling. I imagine you would not like to be touched by someone you could not see if you were being displayed for the whole world to see.

This morning, I am wondering if life is returning to normal. Sam went to work, and Mandy is moving slowly again. However, it will take a few days of this schedule for me to know that life has returned to normal. Bomom and Bonedad have a way of stealing Mandy away even when I do not seem them. So, I am waiting a few days to see if they are still here before I say for sure that life is back to normal.

I am going to remind Mandy that I am hungry for crunchies. I do not want her to forget to feed me.
Peyton

Weekend Happenings

2011-05-23T08:35:00.000-05:00

This weekend was strange. Saturday morning Sam and Mandy woke up fairly early and we all had breakfast. Then the strangest thing happened—my people went back to bed! Not only that, but they slept until the sun was high in the sky! Peyton slept at their feet, but I curled up in the window and watched the sun pass through the sky.

Finally, Sam and Mandy woke up and got out of bed. I was worried they might eat and go back to sleep, but thankfully, they dressed. Then Sam started working out back again. Mandy started working in the house, cleaning in the kitchen and in the forbidden upstairs rooms.

I assumed Sam and Mandy would stay up late since they slept so late, but they didn’t. They went to bed at their normal time, and slept! They must have been very tired.

Yesterday, after their Sunday activities, Sam continued working outside, and I think he is almost done! I sure hope so because I’ve missed being outside because of some wet goop on the ground! Mandy wrapped up a gift and left Sam working. She must have gone to a girl party or something because Sam stayed home.

In the middle of the night, Peyton and I woke up Mandy and Sam when we were playing. We got a little rough, and Sam flashed his big moving light on us and growled some kind of threat that was a little more believable than Mandy's sleepy voice telling us to stop. We hit our separate corners until our people went back to sleep and then tried to play quietly.

Mandy is off to a fairly early start today. I think she is getting ready for company. I wonder who is coming. I guess I will find out soon enough. I’d better go. There’s no telling what that crazy girl will do when I’m not watching her.
Elway

Loud Work

2011-05-20T12:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday strange men showed up at our house and started making all kinds of loud noises! After a while, I figured they were not going to come in my house since all of the noise was coming from outside. When I came out of hiding Mandy gave me treats for being so brave! I went upstairs and Mandy opened the blinds for me. I could see the men outside and they were tearing out our bushes and dirt and sand was flying all over the place.

Sam came home early and talked with the men outside. After the men left, Sam worked on spreading the goop outback. It looks like that goop has covered most all of our patio now! He has almost completed his work.

Today the men came back and planted stuff in our yard. It looks beautiful!
Mandy has been cleaning up in the house again. I wonder if she’s just spring cleaning or if someone is coming. I have not been able to figure out her cleaning method yet.

I am going to attempt to take a nap, but Mandy has been interrupting my naps, so I am unsure how long I will be able to sleep before she wakes me up.
Peyton

Outside Wonders!

2011-05-18T10:37:00.000-05:00

This morning Mandy opened up the doors and let us explore outside! Sam has been busy with that goopy concoction outside, and this morning I was able to examine his handiwork. He is doing a fine job, although I noticed a few places he has marked for touch-ups. However, I noticed the most particular change outside. It’s absolutely extraordinary! There is a hole in the ground next to the big tub!

I only noticed it today. I do not believe this hole existed before; otherwise I am certain I would have observed it. There used to be a small square that was different than the rest of the patio right next to the big tub. I could often hear water running underneath it, but I could never see the water. However today, the square was magically uncovered! I could see the water washing from the big tub into this small space. There is a bucket in this space and it catches all sorts of dirty wet items such as leaves and bugs. It is absolutely gross! I spent a long while staring at this hole in the ground. I think it would be rather dangerous, and I do hope that Mandy and Sam can either replace the cover or fix the ground. Mandy said it was because of the work Sam was doing. He had to move the cover so it was not painted in that smelly goop. Mandy tried to snap my picture while I was intrigued with this hole, but I am always aware of Mandy’s inner shutterbug, and casually walked away every time she grabbed the camera.

I tried to show Elway my discovery, but he was on guard mode. Mandy was cleaning the windows again. This time she was outside with me, and she was standing on the footstool. Elway watched closely to make sure everything Mandy did was safe. He also sat on the inside and pointed out spots she missed. I did notice that Elway did not have to point out spots very often.

Mandy has finished most of the outside windows. And now she is working in the house. Thankfully, I think lunch time is coming soon. Mandy has been very kind to share her food with us lately, so I look forward to her mealtimes as much as my own.
Peyton

Bloody Monday

2011-05-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning was fabulous! Although it would have been better had Mandy let us outside to play because it was beautiful outside. She only opened the windows with screens on them because she said the paint was still wet. Bummer.

Mandy decided to clean the windows yesterday, when something awful happened to her. I'm not really sure what happened, since I was in the other room. She started on the inside since the wet paint kept her inside too. I was sitting in the kitchen window when Mandy came rushing in. She started running water on her finger and called Sam. I could tell in her voice that something was wrong. As soon as she hung up from Sam she wrapped something around her finger and sat down on the floor and started making awful sounds. I came rushing over to look at her, but the loud noises she was making scared me. Peyton came into the kitchen and we calmed her down enough to get her to the couch. She sat crying and holding her finger above her head.

It was then we figured out she wrapped paper towel around her finger but it was turning red. It was very gross. Peyton and I sat a ways away from Mandy and watched her. It wasn’t long after that when Sam came home. Boy were we glad to see him! He held Mandy until she stopped crying and he looked at her finger. It was gross and Peyton and I left because it was really nasty.

Sam was able to clean up Mandy’s finger and calm her down. She was shaking all over and I could tell she hurt. Sam made her lunch and sat with her until she went to sleep. Then he went back to work.

Peyton and I gave Mandy a lot of space hoping she would sleep a long time. When she woke up I stayed with her all day. Whenever she moved around I jumped up and tried to stop her. I sniffed at her finger before I would give her permission to go on. Sometimes I would push her back to the couch and make her sit back down.

Last night Sam changed the bandage on Mandy’s finger and said it was looking a little better. Today we are watching Mandy. I have already tried to move around the window cleaning supplies to keep Mandy from finishing up. She hasn’t made an effort to continue cleaning the windows; perhaps she will do something else today. I believe that would be the best thing.

Oh look! Mandy opened the doors for us! I’m going outside to play!!
Elway

Gurgle Gurgle, Gone

2011-05-15T15:56:00.000-05:00

Elway has started another battle with Mandy and Sam and it is a losing battle, in fact, I think he has completely lost this battle. I do not know why he feels the need to upset them and force them to take mean action to stop his nonsense.

Here is the problem…

Our water dish comes in two parts, a dish and a bottle that fits into the dish. When we drink enough water, the bottle makes a gurgling sound and fills up the dish with fresh water from the bottle. It is really a great dish. Unfortunately, Elway has become obsessed with the gurgling sound the bottle makes. He hits at the dish, knocking water all over the floor in order to force the bottle to make the gurgling sound. How kitten-like, really? Well, eventually Elway knocks the bottle over, and spills water all over the bathroom floor. The bottle then gurgles until all the water has spilled all over the floor. He always does this at night while Mandy and Sam are trying to sleep, so when they wake up in the morning they walk into the bathroom and step on a slippery wet floor.

Mandy’s first idea to fight this was to clean the dish, so we had to go without our dish for a while. Mandy gave us a boring kitchen bowl to drink out of while our fancy gurgling bowl went through the cleaning machine in the kitchen. However, as soon as we had our bowl back, Elway proceeded to knock it over in the middle night. Not just once. Not even twice. But three nights in a row!

Well, I cannot say I blame Mandy for what she did next, because I did not like walking through the puddle on the bathroom floor Elway created every night. She took off the bottle form our fancy dish and now she just fills it up with water for us without the bottle or the gurgling noise. The upside to this decision is we get fresh water twice a day, but it is rather disappointing that there is no gurgling noise. Someday perhaps my brother will learn not to push his luck. Perhaps, but it is unlikely.

Today should have been a relaxing afternoon, but it has not turned out that way. Mandy and Sam came home after their Sunday Morning activity, and ate dinner. Then Sam changed clothes and started slopping goop all over outside again. Mandy chased us down and cut our claws. It was necessary, but Mandy never cuts our claws when Sam is home, so I ran and hid. She had to solicit Sam’s help to catch me. The nice things about short claws are the wonderful treats we get for letting Mandy butcher our beautifully sharp claws, and the ability to really tear into our scratching posts. Then Mandy pulled out the Evil Villain and cleaned up our clipped claws--so much for our quiet and relaxing Sunday afternoon.

Sam is really making progress outside. I am watching to make sure he does not miss a spot.
Peyton

Blog Oddities

2011-05-13T14:40:00.000-05:00

So I posted yesterday, I know I did, but when I checked the blog today, my post was GONE! So, I re-posted my update and that’s why there’s a double post today.

This afternoon, Mandy started hollering for me to wake up. She said she needed some help or something. So after much reluctance I dragged myself out of bed to see what exactly Mandy was doing. When I came out of the bedroom, Mandy had torn apart the front closet where Vacuum lives! She has boxes all over the place! What a mess! Not only that but boxes and packing paper exploded all over the kitchen table. However, stuff is starting to appear that I haven’t seen since we moved here. And some of it is stuff Mandy says predates us! I can’t believe she still has boxes to unpack! What a lazy girl. I mean it! How long have we been here, and she pulls out boxes today?! Unbelievable!

When Sam came home last night, he started working outside again. Mandy took us outside to watch Sam after we ate dinner. He’s glopping that smelly sticky stuff all over the ground. Normally Mandy is the one with the nasty stuff, but she puts it on the walls. I don’t understand why Sam is putting it on the ground. And it’s even stranger that Mandy is not at least helping him. She likes to play in that stinky stuff.

It’s starting to get dark outside, and Mandy says it might rain. That would be nice. Unless there are those loud noises that come with some of those storms. That loud banging is rather unnerving. Even Peyton dislikes it. We try to stay close to Mandy when those big storms roll through. Sometimes Peyton will even wake Mandy, if the storms come through at night.

Well, I think Mandy should put the closet back together. The front of the house looks awful but I am enjoying smelling all these items that are normally hidden in Vacuums lair.
Elway

Furniture Movement

2011-05-13T11:56:00.000-05:00

The other night, after Sam and Mandy shut us in our room for the night they left and made a whole bunch of noise. Peyton and I had to wait until morning to figure out what our people did to make all that noise. When Sam let us out of the room yesterday morning the dining room had been torn apart. The forbidden table had been moved. Peyton and I checked everything out, but other than the rearrangement of furniture, which our people do regularly, it all seemed normal.

Later in the morning though, our normalcy was challenged. The doorbell rang, and Peyton and I ran to the bedroom for protection. Mandy said we were great guard cats. I think she was being sarcastic. When we came out a few hours later, a new piece of furniture was sitting next to the forbidden table. It is tall and it has doors that slide back and forth. Mandy cleaned it all up, and knocked a few packing peanuts on the ground. I love packing peanuts, but when I grabbed one and ran away, Mandy chased me down and took the peanut right out of my mouth! How mean! Then she vacuumed up all the peanut leftovers on the ground. I couldn’t believe the villain could eat the peanuts, but I could not. How unfair! But I did manage to slip away with a tiny peanut that I hid in the bedroom. I ate it before Mandy could take it from me. Meow!

Sam and Mandy have put the forbidden table back in the right place, and reminded me that I am not allowed on the table. I can’t even jump on the table to look at the new item. It just doesn’t seem fair.

Mandy has spent the last few days hanging out with us. In return, I have helped her clean house and do all her chores. She says she enjoys my company. I like to watch her do her chores. It seems like she does the same things over and over again. Very strange.

Well, Mandy really needs to get started today. There is a lot I think she is planning on doing, at least she had a long list she told Sam she wanted to accomplish. She’d better get started.
Elway

Back to Normal

2011-05-10T09:08:00.000-05:00

When Mandy and Sam woke up yesterday, I thought Mandy might have been going back to work or leaving me for a while. She hasn’t woke up and dressed for the day with Sam since tax season, and I was sad that she might leave me. I jumped on the counter while she put powder on her face, and cried. She saw the big crocodile tears streaming down my face, and she was sad to see my cry. I let her snuggle me and wipe my tears away. She promised she would come back soon because she wasn’t going work. She didn’t lie either, she and Sam were only gone an hour. When they came home, I snuggled Mandy and told her I was so happy she came back to me!

Ajulie was still here when Mandy and Sam left. She slept late and then ate breakfast, but she gave her milk to Peyton. Apparently, he sat with her the whole time and asked sweetly. Meow. Whatever.

Ajulie packed up all of her stuff and Mandy took her away. I guess she is gone because she didn’t eat dinner with Mandy and Sam, and I don’t hear anything upstairs. She was fun to watch, and Mandy seemed to enjoy her company. Mandy was sad when Ajulie left. I liked watching Ajulie chase Peyton around. I think more people should chase Peyton. Meow!!

Today I am hoping Mandy stays home and gives us all of her attention. She really needs to clean the house, and I intend to help her. I just need to motivate her to get up and start working.
Elway

Chaos!

2011-05-07T16:55:00.000-05:00

You would not believe everything going on around here. Life has turned upside down. We knew company was coming, but Mandy brought Ajulie home. She says we have met her before, but she is rather strange. She calls herself a monster, and it is an apt description. She stands next to Mandy as Mandy fixes our dinner, and then stays close by expecting us to eat. MEOW! Peyton comes out at night and watches her from a great distance. Whenever her toes twitch Peyton stairs at Ajulie and makes sure she isn’t about to pounce on us. She hasn’t pounced yet, but I know she wants to pounce, so we like to keep our distance.

Sam is also doing strange things outside. We always help Mandy paint, but she paints the walls. Sam has taken all of the painting tools outside and he is painting the ground around the pool. We are banished inside until all of the paint is dry, and I don’t know how long that will take. I can’t wait until we can go outside again. Sam can’t even come in the doors because he blocked them with this wet paint. Whenever he wants to come in the house, he has to go clear around and come in the front door!

This afternoon Mandy came into the kitchen and found water dripping from the ceiling! Oh no! She made Ajulie call Sam in from the back yard and he had to come in the front door. They cleaned up the water, but couldn’t figure out where it came from. So, Sam said he would figure it out after he finished painting.

Mandy and Ajulie have been spending a lot of time at the beach. When they come home they smell like sunscreen and sand. They also leave great piles of sand all over the house; it is a great big mess!

Well, I need to finish watching Sam. He’s moving stuff around outside!
Elway

Something's Up

2011-05-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

Something’s going on, but I haven’t figured it out yet. Mandy worked hard to clean the house this morning, so I think our company is coming today. Then she got all ready for the day, but now she is sitting on the couch, playing on the computer and relaxing. She keeps talking to someone on the phone too, it sounds like delays. I don’t know what’s going on, and it’s a bit confusing, so I am selecting to stay hidden in bed. Life is much less scary when hidden away in bed.

Mandy and Sam worked outside again last night. Sam used the grass eater and Mandy worked on the patio some more. Peyton sat in the kitchen window and watched as Sam pushed the grass eater around, and I watched Mandy purge the patio of black dirt. Our outside is looking so pretty.

This morning, the evil Villain came out. I am beginning to wonder if I misjudged him. When Mandy pulled him out of his lair, she took him apart. I was able to look at his guts and all he has is a bag. Mandy put in a new bag, and I looked inside. He was pretty empty. Mandy took him into the bedroom and he cleaned the carpet, and then came back out to the living room. I hung out by the kitchen window and smelled the beautiful lilies. When Mandy turned Vacuum off, I slowly took my time sauntering into the bedroom. I knew he wouldn’t roar to life until I was safely in the bedroom and he didn’t. I sat in the bedroom doorway and watched him work. He stayed away from my toys and cleaned the carpet; he even managed to clean up my scratching post. Maybe he’s not such a villain after all. Perhaps he is just loud.

Mandy just got off the phone again. She seems sad, and looks like she might settle in for a nap. I guess whatever she found out means there is time for a nap, so I’m heading back into hiding.
Elway

Lazy Days

2011-05-04T16:47:00.000-05:00

I have heard that Summer is full of Lazy Hazy Days, but today was a gloriously lethargic day. Mandy ended up sleeping on the couch again after lunch. This is becoming a regular habit, and I am a bit unaware why. Mandy has never slept during the day before.

After she woke up, she pulled Villain up the stairs and he roared to life disrupting my nap. Now, I know intruders are coming to my house, I just do not know when they will invade. Villain only travels up the stairs when trespassers are coming. I am fairly confident it will not be tonight, because Mandy is wearing outside working clothes again. It is beautiful outside, and the windows have been open today. When Elway and I are awake, we enjoy sitting in the kitchen window feeling the breeze rustle through our fur coats. The breeze was so strong this morning that I worried it my blow us off the counter! However, we were able to stay fixed firmly in place without the wind blowing us away.

Today Elway and I took our turns climbing the bookshelf. It made Mandy pretty angry, but it was fun. I made it all the way to the top! Mandy says if we decided to play king of the mountain again, we are only allowed to use the stairs. We will see Mandy. We will see. Meow.
Peyton

My Kind of Day

2011-05-03T10:06:00.000-05:00

I love to spend time with Mandy, but at a distance. Normally Elway receives all the credit for helping Mandy around the house, but I do my share. It is a thankless job because I do keep my distance.

Yesterday, I greeted Mandy when she came home from the store. I stayed close to her as she put all her new items away, and watched as she fixed her lunch. Then I sat close to her waiting patiently for a bite of egg. I was not disappointed; however, Elway did get in on my egg, so I think I might have been cheated out of a few bites. Once Elway was full of egg, he went into the other room and napped, so I was left alone to watch Mandy. She must have been awful tired because as soon as she finished eating she was sound asleep. It is unlike Mandy to sleep so soundly during the day, so I opted to nap close by to keep a watchful eye on her.

She was asleep a long time, and when she finally woke up, she was groggy. I followed her around and she moved laundry around. She eventually settled down on the floor of the bedroom, but not before she took the dresser apart. Pretty soon, she had piles of clothes all over the floor and the drawers were empty. Then she put everything back in the draws, and they look very organized.

When she finished destroying the bedroom, she left the draws all over the floor, and came back to the couch. She still seemed rather sleepy, so I sat behind her on the couch and hit her with my tail to keep her awake.

When Sam came home, he helped Mandy put the bedroom back together. Then Mandy left and Sam went out back and was playing in the dirt beyond the screen. I watched him, hoping my pitiful looks from the window would remind him that I was hungry. However, he ignored me. I do not think he even saw my pleas from the window. When Mandy returned home, she took me out back and I yelled and screamed so Sam would hear us coming. He agreed to come in for dinner, so Mandy took me back in and fed me. I was happy for a scrumptious meal.

During the evenings, Red Lightening Bug has been coming out to play. I played with him off and on for a few hours. He was very playful, and I chased him from the couch into the kitchen, and up the walls. Mandy said I had some good jumps. However, I am worried about Red, his light is fading, and I am worried he might not be well. But even if he is ill, he is still very energetic.

Well, I believe Mandy is going to work some today. I think we are getting ready for some company, because she is doing that kind of cleaning. I wonder who will come.
Peyton

Crazy Cleaning People

2011-04-30T11:42:00.000-05:00

I might have mentioned in the past that Mandy and Sam are kind of neat freaks. I don’t mind so much, because I much prefer for things to be in order—that way I can always find my toys. But today they must have gone crazy! Sam went to the garage to work on something, and Mandy went out back by the big tub and started moving everything around. I thought things were fine out there, but apparently they weren’t good enough for these crazy people.

After Mandy finished moving stuff around, Sam came in the side door by the big tub dragging this huge machine! Peyton and I rushed inside, because this huge machine was rather scary looking! We watched what was going to happen from the safety of the inside windows. Sam hooked up the hose to the machine and then he pulled a cord and the machine roared to life!

The machine had this huge arm type thing that Sam held on too and it squirted water out of it! Well, Sam sprayed water on the ground and dirt went flying everywhere! After a few minutes, Mandy took over, and continued to send dirt flying in every direction. That water must have been really powerful, because at one time, Mandy accidently fired the water into the pool and it was like a bomb erupting! Water went flying everywhere!

Mandy worked with the loud machine for a while, but eventually she called Sam and he turned it off. She cleaned a few sections of the patio with that machine and they are all white and sparkly! She on the other hand was covered in dirt from head to toe. I had no idea there was that much dirt out there! I was appalled that Mandy and Sam allowed Peyton and I to play outside with so much dirt! Can you imagine how much dirt we must drag into the house? I am glad these clean freaks are finally getting around to cleaning the outside. It’s about time!

Oh, I have more exciting news! This morning, before all of these shenanigans started, I found a long skinny worm outside! I brought him in the house but Sam chased me down and took the worm from me. I was looking forward to playing with him. Next time I’ll keep my prisoner outside longer.
Elway

Crazy Early Morning!

2011-04-29T16:41:00.001-05:00

So this morning was crazy! Sam woke up super early and turned on the TV. Mandy sat bolt upright and acted all confused. Once she figured out that Sam turned on the TV, she loved me and petted me. I snuggled her and she woke up to watch whatever Sam turned on. I eventually jumped down and woke Peyton up. We had no interest in the people wearing big hats and fancy clothes. Peyton and I had several rounds of a royal wrestling match. Mandy was plenty angry with us, and told us several times to play nice, but we ignored her.

At one point, Mandy went and poured cereal for breakfast. Then those crazy people took their cereal and went back to bed to eat. Peyton seems to like when they eat breakfast in bed, but I think it is strange. We don’t eat in bed. What lazy people.

Since we woke up so early, I have been napping all afternoon. I didn’t even let Evil Villain disrupt my nap. I am glad it is the start of the weekend; I think we will all go to bed early tonight.
Elway

Dinner Run

2011-04-28T11:22:00.001-05:00

Last night I was sitting next to my dinner plate awaiting a scrumptious meal, when Mandy picked me up and shoveed me in the new case that Elway has been using to nap. She zipped it closed and carried me to the car. She tried to bring Elway too, but he absolutely refused to tag along on this adventure. Had I been given a choice, I would not have gone either. However, since I was unwillingly shoved in the case and dragged to the car, I had to go.

As soon as Mandy sat down in the car, she opened up the cage and I slipped out. I cried as I watched our house fade away. I called Elway every four letter meow I could scream until Mandy told me to calm down because we were going on an adventure. I watched as we left our neighborhood and drove past several small buildings. She said we were going to pick up dinner. Dinner? What?! Most of the time Mandy fixes dinner at home and upon a rare occasion Sam will bring dinner home. I rarely play any part in the dinner regiment.

Anyway, Sam pulled into a small lot with lots of other cars, and went into a building. I could see him through the glass. When he came back out, he had a small box that Mandy called dinner. She put it in the back seat with me. She opened the box and there was pizza inside and it smelled delicious! Mandy offered me a piece of sausage. I did not eat the whole sausage, but I enjoyed licking it. Sam said it was special treat for being such a brave kitty on a big adventure.

After picking up the pizza, Sam drove straight home. I got back in my case and Mandy brought me back in the house where she promptly fed me dinner. I told Elway just what I thought of him abandoning me on this adventure and then bragged about getting sausage.

It was a huge adventure, especially since the last few times I have been in the car I ended up at the cat doctor. Mandy says that every trip does not need to be to the doctor and sometimes trips are fun. I am not sure I agree with her yet, but perhaps it was rather enjoyable to spend some time with Mandy and Sam in the car once I calmed down.
Peyton

Unbelievable treatment!

2011-04-27T11:56:00.001-05:00

You would not believe what Mandy dared to do to me this morning! What unallowable treatment! She crossed a line this morning. I came into help her clean the bathroom and she picked me up and started looking at my paw. You see this morning I had played with our beautiful lily, and knocked some of the pollen off. Well, the pollen stained my paw and nose yellow, but I smelled beautiful! Well Mandy tried to clean off my paw, but I refused to allow this, so she filled the tub with a little water and dumped my front paws in the water. Now I will admit the water felt rather nice, it was a comfortable temperature, and eventually I just put all four paws in the water to make my life a little easier.

Well Mandy scrubbed my paw with some soap, and got rid of most of the yellow coloration on my paw and my nose. However, I was not an easy patient to bath. I jumped out of the tub a few times, careful not to hurt Mandy because she was being gentle even if the bath was forced. Eventually Mandy wrapped me in a towel, and dumped me and the towel in the tub. Having a towel in the tub was actually relaxing, and I plopped down on the towel and let Mandy scrub my paw some more. Eventually she let me out of the tub and tried to help me dry off and brush me.

I was entirely too angry to allow her to try and be sweet to me by brushing me. She even took me outside and let me dry off in the warm sun, but it wasn’t enough to make me forgive such cruel and unusual treatment.

After I was completely dried off Mandy loved me a little, and I allowed her to pet me. However I have remained rather aloof in hopes that she will not continue such behavior in the future. Peyton is hidden and refuses to even acknowledge Mandy hoping he will not have to have a bath.

Well, after such a difficult and traumatic morning, I’m going to take a nice long afternoon nap. Mandy can finish cleaning the house on her own.
Elway

Outside Work

2011-04-22T15:26:00.000-05:00

Sam and Mandy have been spending the early evenings outside working. Sam used the loud machine that eats the bushes. Normally Mandy uses that machine, but Sam must have won out this time. He cut the bushes pretty short, and now I can not only see over the bushes when I look out the kitchen window I can do it when I’m sprawled out. I can also look down the bushes along the house all the way to the ground! Sam did a really great job cutting all the bushes back.

While Sam cutting the bushes, and chasing off the snake, Mandy was out front with this machine she ran along the edge of the grass. She had grass and dirt flying everywhere! It was like a storm cloud of grass! When she finished she swept all the grass up into a big pile, and Sam came and picked it up. Sam works faster than Mandy, so he helps her finish up. When those two dirty people came in, I ushered them right to the shower. There was no way I’d let all that dirt roam freely through my house. Mandy laughed at me, but I was pretty serious.

Mandy has also bought a beautiful Easter Lilly! It hasn’t opened up all the way yet, but I think it will be beautiful come Easter! Our whole house will smell like flowers! I love lilies! And when they are almost dead they drip this delicious sticky goo, which I like to lick up before Mandy catches me. Once she catches me though she keeps the goo wiped up.

Mandy has also spent a lot of time out in the sun in the backyard this week. Peyton’s guilt trips work wonders, so we have enjoyed playing in the warm afternoon sun almost every day this week. In fact, both Mandy and I are basking in the glorious sunlight listening to the neighbor mow the law. Peyton is out here too. I do believe it’s almost time for Mandy to use the big tub again! Then we will be able to spend much more time outside.

Well, that’s all for now.
Elway

Manipulating Mandy

2011-04-20T12:21:00.000-05:00

This morning was simply amazing. Mandy mentioned the beach, and I did everything in my power to keep her from leaving. I snuggled her and loved her making her think I wanted her to stay. Well, I was successful, and instead of leaving, she let us out back. Elway, Mandy and I basked in the sun for a long time. It was wonderful outside with the birds soaring overhead, the sunlight sparkling off the big tub, and the little bugs jumping around outside the screen. Elway and I eventually moved into the shade and Mandy forced us all back inside.

Last night, Sam and Mandy left us for a while, something about celebrating the end of tax season. When they returned home, they had delicious smelling food which they put in the fridge and they also had a giant box! Sam emptied the box and set something up in the kitchen. I do not know what all the fuss was about; it is just another container to put trash. Elway seemed to enjoy the fuss and Mandy set up the empty box for him. We have enjoyed playing in the big box.
Peyton

Lions, Snakes and Hummingbirds?...Oh My!!!

2011-04-19T08:38:00.000-05:00

It’s been a regular animal farm around here this weekend. I tried to blog about it earlier, but I ran into come complex computer problems, and it took Mandy a little while to work through them. However today, everything is up and running so I can tell you about the wild animals running rampant in and around our house.

I’ll start with the Lion, because he disturbed my house the most recently. Yesterday, I was napping the in the sun comfortably in my new case when the Evil Villain roared to life. I have discovered that he has a strict regiment he follows each time he disrupts my peaceful home. He always starts in the bedroom, moves into the hallway, under the noise maker, around the big table, and into the TV room. If I stay in my new case while Vacuum eats the rest of the house, when he thunders into the final room, Mandy turns him off. Yesterday she picked me up and carried my past the Villain, but she stopped so I could look at him first. Do you know what?! There is a Lion on the front of Villain! That would be why he roars so much I guess. I have recently come to an understanding the Villain who bears a Lion. I won’t bother him, if he leaves me alone. So far, it’s a fair understanding and we have both agreed to these terms.

So not only have I had a run in with a Lion, but with a Snake! Saturday morning, I woke up and looked out the kitchen window and do you know what was out there?! Well, I already told you…a snake! I had never seen such a creature. He slithered on his belly because he didn’t have any appendages. He was slow and creepy. His long tongue quickly slipped out of his mouth and did a little dance in front of his face as he slithered along the window frame. I watched him, and guarded the window making sure he could not make it into the house. He was a sneaky little fellow, he even tried to crawl up the side of the window but he didn’t make it very far before he fell down. I laughed at his futile attempt to penetrate my lair. Eventually he gave up and crawled back into the bushes. I have checked the window often since the snake sighting, but I haven’t seen the creature since. I believe he understand that I am far bigger and braver than he is, and he better not try to enter my home.

So, a Lion and a Snake disrupted my life this weekend, but there was one more animal. Sunday afternoon Mandy and Sam were eating their Sunday dinner outside when something flew into the screen. I ran over to see what it was because it didn’t leave after it hit the screen. Well, it was very high up and I couldn’t reach it. I tried to climb the screen to help the creature because I could tell it was stuck. I could not reach the little animal though, so I called for Sam and Mandy. They came over and said it was a hummingbird and she was stuck! Her nose had come through the screen and she couldn’t wiggle free. Sam and Mandy called Shrimp Dad for advice and then ran in the house. Sam came back out wearing long sleeves and thick gloves and caring a step ladder. He went outside and tried to help the hummingbird wiggle free. She was very stressed out by now, and was flapping her wings wildly trying to gain her freedom. Sam was able to help her wiggle free and she flew away quickly. Superman Sam saved the day!

So, Lions, Snakes and Hummingbirds! Oh my! What a weekend!

Elway

Lizard Chased Off!

2011-04-12T16:25:00.000-05:00

This morning a lizard crawled across my kitchen window and I let him know exactly what would happen if he dared enter my domain. I beat the window up and scared the wanna-be invader off.

Mandy has been staying home with us again, and I rather enjoy her company. I like to snuggle up with her on the couch as she lazily spends the afternoon on the computer or reading a book. When she does housework, I like to be with her and help her do whatever she's doing. Yesterday I helped her clean out the fridge by looking in the fridge with her. My paws grew cold standing on the shelves. I was sure glad she we finished that awful chore. Then I helped her fold laundry.

Peyton is feeling better and is back to his snooty self. He does snuggle Mandy when she’s alone and he doesn’t think I’m watching.

Sam and Mandy went shopping for us this weekend! They came home with more food, a soft fluffy case of some sort, a new cat bed, and a brush! I love to be brushed and allow Mandy to brush me several times a day. Peyton does not like the brush though, and Mandy has not used it on him at all. I also like the soft fluffy case. I believe that I can be carried in it, as Sam as carried me all over the house. I don’t particularly like to be carried in the case, but it is nice to sleep in.

Well, I think I am going to stretch in the sun.
Elway

Celebratory Salmon

2011-04-06T08:25:00.000-05:00

The other night, Mandy and Sam left us for the first time since Peyton’s attack. They were not gone for long, but when they arrived home, they had bags for food…for us! We were so excited that we circled Mandy’s legs while she put the food away. We talked to her and told her how much we’d love to try our food, you know check to make sure it was edible. We pleaded and asked. Sam sad Mandy was a softy, but she caved and gave us a can of food. She said it was Celebratory Salmon. Because Peyton hasn’t had another attack, and because he’d lost so much weight.

Honestly, I didn’t care what Mandy’s reasons were I was just thrilled to have a mid-evening snack which we never ever receive. I tried asking for another celebratory can of food last night, but my pleas when unanswered. Mandy said it was a onetime deal, but I bet we’ll get another can out of her in the future.

It’s rather chilly this morning. Peyton and I both slept on the bed last night so we didn’t have to sleep on the cold floor. The warm weather is wonderful, but snuggling up on bed with Sam and Mandy is relaxing.

Since Peyton is feeling better I think I’ll chase him for a little while.
Elway

Another trip to the Vet

2011-04-04T18:42:00.000-05:00

I knew it was coming, but you can never be ready for the trip to Cat Doctor. I made sure it is just as hard on Mandy as it was on me to visit that awful place. I absolutely refused to get in my carrying case, and it made Mandy cry. Good. Meow. It serves her right for trying to take me to Cat Doctor again.

Apparently, the appointment was a follow up after my episode this weekend. It was a frightening event and I hope it never happens again. So do Mandy and Sam. We are all praying it never happens again.

Sam came home to help Mandy take me to visit Cat Doctor. He actually forced me into my case with Mandy’s help, so I did end up being carried into the doctor’s office. When I arrived, Mandy set me on the floor, and we waited to be let in a room. I hate the wait. I do not know what is going to happen and the wait makes it worse. When we finally got into a room, I refused to come out of my case, but Sam popped the top off and Mandy lifted me out.

The nurse came in and put me on the evil scale. I have lost almost half an ounce since my last visit and the nurse and the doctor were pleased with my progress. The nurse was new and I have never seen her before. She gushed over my beauty, so she earned my approval. However, she pricked my ear and took some more blood. It kind of hurt. But I was just glad they didn’t shave off any more hair. The ER Doctor shaved off a spot on my neck to draw blood. How embarrassing. My blood tests were normal today, so Cat Doctor has no idea what caused my seizure. She says my blood tests were normal right after my attack too, because the tests the ER Doctor ran did not show anything abnormal. She says it is possible I might have another attack, but I might not. We will just keep praying I never have another one. You can pray too.

So, other than my attack, I was given a clean bill of health. I was glad to leave the Cat Doctor. I quickly crawled in my cage as soon as the door was opened. Mandy let me out in the car and I looked out the window for a while, but I also hid too. I was thankful to be home.

Well, thanks for your thoughts.
Peyton

Horrible Turn of Events

2011-04-03T20:00:00.000-05:00

This weekend was a little rough. It started off wonderfully. In fact, it was amazing. Friday night, Sam and Mandy let us play outside in the dark! It was extremely fun to play with all of the night time critters. Eventually, Sam and Mandy brought us in, and we all went to bed.

Sometime in the middle of the night, Peyton started making horrible sounds from the closet. Sam jumped out of bed and called for Mandy. Peyton was thrashing around and throwing up blood. Sam was able to hold Peyton down and keep him from moving too much.

Eventually Peyton stopped thrashing, but he was disoriented. He didn’t want me to near him, and he didn’t seem to recognize Sam. He did let Mandy love him, and he seemed calmer around her. Sam ran and got the carrying case but when he came back in the room, Peyton freaked out again, and Mandy had to calm him down. Once she did, Sam was able to coerce Peyton into the carrying case. Mandy used the phone to call the cat doctor—the one open in the middle of the night. It wasn’t much later that Sam and Mandy were dressed and carrying Peyton to the car.

I was left home alone and all I could do was worry about my brother. Sam and Mandy were very upset. I had no idea what happened to him. Nothing like this had ever happened before and I was afraid. It seemed like they were gone for a very long time, but when they came home, everyone seemed calmer. I followed Sam because he was carrying Peyton’s carrying case.

Sam let Peyton out of the case in the bedroom and I was there to greet him. He said that Sam and Mandy took him to the emergency vet. Apparently, they ran all sorts of tests on him and the doctor even shaved a little spot on his neck to draw blood.

Peyton said the doctor called his attack a seizure, and they are not entirely sure what caused it.

Peyton, Sam and Mandy were exhausted and I was happy to sleep since I had been worrying all night. We all slept late the next morning. Sam eventually went to work, but Mandy stayed home with Peyton and me all day. She made sure she could see Peyton the whole day. The poor cat couldn’t even use the box without Mandy nearby.

Last night, Mandy and Sam tossed and turned all night. I don’t think either of them slept well listening for Peyton. Today he seems better though. He even played with his toy from Mom With-Cool-Toys.

We are all praying that this is the only attack Peyton ever experiences. Peyton said the ER Vet said sometimes it only happens once. You can pray with us.

Elway

Yellow Dog

2011-03-29T16:38:00.001-05:00

Today my Yellow Dog from Mom With Cool Toys was almost eaten by Evil Villain! It was almost tragic! Thankfully, Mandy rescued Yellow Dog from the grasp of Vacuum’s Teeth. Yellow Dog was hanging out under the noise maker when the Villain tried to eat him up. It would have been awful to lose my newest toy in such a fashion. Simply terrible. Elway

Long Time No Blog

2011-03-28T19:09:00.001-05:00

Hi All! I have been super busy, and have been unable to blog because of all of the exciting things going on in my life. I’ll do my best to fill you in on all the exciting details. It all started when Mandy started cleaning the room upstairs--that always means someone is coming to visit. However, Mandy did not do a very good job cleaning house for company, so I wasn’t sure if someone would really come or if Mandy was just cleaning upstairs for fun. Then on Saturday night, Mandy and Sam dressed up in funny clothes and left. Pretty soon someone came in our back door! Mom-With-Cool-Toys and Shrimp Dad broke in! They brought in a whole bunch of stuff and hung out with us for the night. They even gave us cool toys! Mom WCT and Shrimp Dad stayed with us all week. They stayed home with us and let us play outside while Mandy and Sam worked. Shrimp Dad didn’t feed us any shrimp, but he sure is generous with his food. He shares even better than Mandy. One night, Mom WCT and Shrimp Dad went someplace and came back pretty late. They brought me another toy! It is a tiny yellow dog, and I can flip him all over the house. Peyton received an orange one, but he hid his under the bed and won’t share him. Mom WCT and Shrimp Dad left on Saturday. I know they left, because Mandy cleaned the upstairs room again, and she let me sneak a peak in the room. There was no one there, and all of their stuff was gone. Mom WCT cooked yummy food, and now that she is gone, Mandy’s dinner was less than exciting tonight. I didn’t even try to share it with her. Peyton and I haven’t been feeling that great. It’s so hot here, and we are losing our winter coats. Mandy says it’s hairballs that are upsetting our tummies and she says she might give us a bath to help us get rid of the excess hair. Meow. The awful “b” word. Meow. I don’t think Mandy can bath us without Sam, so I’m pretty sure we’re safe tonight. Well, I’m going to snuggle Mandy for a while. Elway

Clocks

2011-03-16T18:43:00.001-05:00

Something is defiantly up with the clocks-- Peyton is right. Not about our breakfast being late, it was a little but not as late as Peyton thought. But Mandy is home from work, and it is still light outside! And she didn’t come home early, because it was dinner time when she walked in the door! Anyway, the doors are open and Peyton and I are running in and outside. It is beautiful! Mandy is leaving the windows open for us when she goes to work, but only the windows with screens on them.

I have found a new stick to bring in the house to torment Mandy. I throw it up in the air and play with it to show Mandy how much I love these dried sticks. I have to remember to take my sticks back outside because all of the sticks I leave in the house disappear. I think Mandy hides them, but I haven’t found her hiding space.

This morning something amazing happened! If you remember back a few months I told you Mandy received a balloon for her birthday. Well, I hate this balloon, but I couldn’t do anything to rid my house of it. Mandy has let the balloon live in our house for months! I finally started ignoring the balloon, but these last few days, the balloon floated up and down, and I thought maybe he was ready to make his move on me. Well this morning, the balloon escaped from the hallway Mandy kept it and floated toward the fan. Sam rescued it, but I knew how I could destroy this balloon for good. When Mandy started getting ready for work, I waited until the balloon started sinking and I chased it into the next room. Sam was right about the fan. The balloon drifted directly into the fan! He took a beating like I’ve never seen before! Mandy came rushing out to save her crazy balloon and hid him in the closet. I think the balloon is dead though, and eventually Mandy will throw him away. She doesn’t keep dead things.

Beating the balloon gives me the confidence boost I need to triumph over Vacuum. I am working on a plan to destroy Vacuum this weekend!

Elway

Early Sunrise

2011-03-13T16:42:00.001-05:00

This morning was extraordinarily peculiar. I woke Mandy up at the normal wake up time for breakfast, and I thought everything was normal until Mandy let me out of the bedroom. The sun was up! The house was all lit up like it was daytime. I must have overslept. I told Mandy just what I thought about having such a late breakfast. Sam told me breakfast right on time, but we never eat breakfast when the sun is up! I believe that something strange is going on with the clocks in this house!

The weather is beautiful outside. Sam is home with us today and he opened the windows for us. It is quite lovely to be outside, or just sleep in the sun next to the open window.

Sundays are my favorite days because Sam stays home with Mandy and us and we spend time together as a family. It is comforting.

Peyton

Vacuum the Villain!

2011-03-12T17:59:00.000-06:00

I found this wonderful new toy! It was a dried stick that had managed to make it in our screened area. It was a lot of work to keep my new toy away from Peyton. I had to guard it constantly.

I liked to carry my stick around and play with it in several places. I played with it outside, in the bedroom, under the noise maker, and on my scratching post.

Mandy warned me not to bring my toy in the house. In fact, she’d thrown it back outside a few times, but today my marvelous toy met his death. Vacuum ate my beloved toy. The Tyrant! I sure hope he chokes on my toy.

Mandy has been rather lazy today. She slept late and we snuggled her hoping she’d wake up and feed us our crunchies. She opened the window in the bedroom and we’ve enjoyed some outside time. I’ve tried to find a new stick since that Bully ate my toy.

Sam and Mandy have been working long hours this week, but they did manage to sneak home for one lunch. They brought home these delicious sandwiches they shared with us.

It’s getting dark outside, and I bet Mandy is going to close the windows soon, so I am going to slip outside for the last few minutes of daylight.

Elway

Strom's a-coming!

2011-03-05T17:45:00.000-06:00

There’s a storm brewing. I can feel it. That and it’s just nasty and windy outside. Mandy is checking the TV and Computer seeing where the storm is located. Strange Cat came running through our back yard a little while ago to make sure we were safe. She was making the rounds to see if all of her friends were protected. We said hello from inside, because it’s too windy to enjoy being outside. She didn’t stay long, since she had several others to check on. I hope she stays dry. It will be a rainy and noisy night.

Mandy ended up leaving us to go to work today. Normally she stays home and plays with us. We missed our play time and snuggles, but she’s home now and we are ready for dinner. We keep telling her we are hungry, but it is a little early for dinner.

I think Sam might be home for dinner because Mandy seems to be waiting for something. It would be nice if we all snuggled in for the night.

Well, I am going to remind Mandy that it’s getting close to dinner time.
Elway

Beautiful Night

2011-03-02T18:56:00.000-06:00

Mandy came home from work a little early tonight and after feeding us dinner she opened the door and let us outside to watch the sunset. It was glorious to sit outside as the colors of the sky changed from blue to gold to purple. We watched as the nighttime bugs woke up and flew around the yard. When Mandy called us in with the treat bag, we were sad to come back in but the sound of the treat bag is very convincing. Mandy bribed us with several treats, so it was worth it come in.

Yesterday was a wonderful day because Peyton and I had a surprise in the middle of the day! Right around lunch time, we heard people coming into our house. It was Mandy and Sam! They came home, and opened the house up and Sam grilled hot dogs. They ate lunch at home, and it was a welcome change to have them home for a short time. Peyton found Black Cat back on the ceiling, and told Sam all about him. Sam called Black Cat Shadow, and Peyton was furious that Sam knew his name. He screamed and yelled and ran all over the house. Peyton was unable to chase Black Cat away as long as I sat in the kitchen window. Meow!

When Sam and Mandy left after lunch, Peyton was waiting for Black Cat to return. I was busy saying good bye to my people, so Black Cat was nowhere to be found.

Well, I am going to curl up with Mandy for a quick nap before bed time.
Elway

Born Free--just like the birds!

2011-02-24T18:41:00.000-06:00

It has been so beautiful that Mandy has been leaving the windows open for us while she’s at work. Of course she only leaves the windows with screens open, but it is wonderful to have fresh air! I like to sleep in the kitchen window and feel the breeze. Since it has been so nice outside, Mandy has let us outside in the mornings. One day this week, I broke through the screen and escaped into the back yard! “BORN FREE! As free as the birds sing!” Meow! I jumped and danced over to the palm trees. I thought I might be able to catch a lizard! I couldn’t find a lizard, but I decided to try out the palm tree as a scratching post to sharpen my deadly claws just in case I found an unfortunate lizard. Those palm trees make excellent scratching posts!! Maybe there’s a way to bring one of those trees inside. Meow.

Mandy heard me break the screen, and sing as I danced around. She came out to check on me. I ran over to the bushes between our house and the neighbor’s house. Did you know they have a giant cat cage too? However I did not see a cat inside their screened area. I heard Mandy call me, and I went to her. She carried me back inside. She told me we are inside cats until she can fix the screen and so far she has kept her promise. We have yet to go outside again. I am disappointed that I’ve not been able to play outside, but my few minutes of freedom were worth the indoor punishment. It was wonderful to feel the palm trees under my paws!

Well, Peyton looks like he needs chased.
Elway

Intruder Cat!

2011-02-20T14:01:00.000-06:00

An Intruder has broken into our house and no one seems to care one iota about the monster, except me! There is something very peculiar about this intruder—it is another cat!

I first noticed this monster when Elway was sitting in the kitchen window. Black Cat appeared on the ceiling and he sat calmly swishing his tail. I cried and cried and Mandy came running. I pointed the intruder out to her and she said that he was allowed in the house.

She went about her business and I tried to convince Elway to check out the monster on the ceiling! Finally Elway looked at the ceiling and shrugged. Then he left the room and so did the Black Cat. I ran through all of the rooms in the house but did not see any sign of the black cat. I was satisfied by my thorough investigation of my home that Black Cat had exited the building, so I jumped on the counter to look out the kitchen window. A few minutes later I felt the presence of Black Cat. I turned around and there he was on the ceiling again! I screamed for help! Elway came running and Mandy looked up from doing the dishes. Elway jumped up next to me and there were TWO Black Cats!

I broke one of the cardinal rules of the kitchen and jumped onto the table trying to scare off these unwelcome guests. Mandy came over and picked me up off the table, and suddenly there was only one Black Cat again! She held me up as high as she could so I could try and scare off Black Cat, but I was unable to accomplish my goal. Black Cat remind on the ceiling for another hour while Elway calming sat in the kitchen window! I worked continually trying to get Mandy out of the kitchen to safety. I had no idea what Black Cat was capable off, and I wanted to make sure Mandy was a safe distance in case a fight broke out.

Eventually, as it got dark outside, Black Cat left the house. I was so tired by the time he left, that I plopped down next to the couch, too tired to even go outside and sleep in the sun. Mandy had the windows open and the house felt wonderful. I love the sun!

I had hoped we were rid of Black Cat but this morning he appeared in another room of the house! Mandy opened the curtains in the bedroom and I looked up and saw Black Cat swishing his tail on the ceiling! I noticed this morning he was ready for a fight. He must have seen me at the same time I saw him because he crouched down in a ready to jump position at the same time I did. Fortunately, I was able to chase off Black Cat as Mandy closed the curtains.

Mandy laughs and says I am afraid of Shadow. This is terrible! She has already named this terrible Black Cat. What kind of a name is Shadow anyway? I do not think he will visit this house again. I certainly showed him who was boss this morning.

On a much lighter note, we received Valentines in the mail this week! It was the highlight of my week, and I was very excited when Mandy greeted me at the door with mail! Thanks for thinking of us!

Peyton

Happy Valentine’s Day

2011-02-14T19:44:00.000-06:00

Hope your day is as absolutely loveable. Mandy came home and fed us dinner. Now we are snuggled under the heating blanket with her. It’s lovely.

Hope you are able to spend your day with a Valentine as sweet as ours.

Elway & Peyton

Sunshine!

2011-02-13T16:58:00.000-06:00

The Sunshine is lovely today. Mandy has left the door cracked open, and I am free to go in and out at will. It is absolutely beautiful! I hope it continues to warm up. The sun was pouring in the windows this morning. I tried to wake Sam and Mandy up. They are normally up long before the sun comes up, and it took a tremendous amount of work to wake them up today. However, once they got up, they let me outside to soak up the sun.

Yesterday was beautiful too. Mandy stayed home with us and cleaned house. Elway followed her around, and helped her clean things up and make the bed.

Elway is still insistent on finding a way to destroy Vacuum. Yesterday, when the Villain came out, Elway stood in front of him, daring him to roar to life. Mandy took compassion on Elway and picked him up and hid him in the blankets on the bed. Then the Villain gobbled up all of the paper Elway and I scratched off our scratching post. Elway was so embarrassed he stayed hidden in bed until Mandy dragged him out, several hours later. I told him not to worry about Vacuum. He only comes to life when his cord is plugged in, and even then Mandy has to push him around. However, Elway is bent on finding a way to topple Vacuum. Perhaps I should help him, but it is a never ending battle. Meow.

Well, I see something strange floating in the pool. I am going to go check it out.
Peyton

Fishy Funeral

2011-02-10T19:12:00.000-06:00

It is a sad day--one of our fish has passed away. Mandy found him yesterday and this morning Sam buried him. I attended the funeral and cried appropriately for the fishy. Good bye fishy.

Elway refused to attend because it was rainy. I told him he was selfish, but he watched from inside.

I am snuggling with Mandy this evening, so this is a short post. But I wanted to fill you in on the loss of one of the fish.
Peyton

All Gone!

2011-02-08T18:54:00.000-06:00

Good News rings through the house today! My medication is gone! Yesterday was the last day, but I did not believe Mandy until this morning when she did not attempt to tackle me and gag pills down my throat!

Mandy is still mixing fiber into my food, but I do not mind the extra wait for my meals now that I do not have any more antibiotics to take. It is a glorious day!

Peyton

Family nap time

2011-02-06T18:48:00.000-06:00

Family nap time often occurs on Sunday afternoon. It is never the same, but it is always nice when we nap together. Today Mandy was the only one to nap while Sam worked. Mandy was really out, so Peyton and I let her sleep, and did not bother to cuddle her.

It was sunny today, which was so nice compared to the clouds and rain we’ve had for days. Peyton went out and sprawled out in the sun for a long time even though the cement was very cold. I was smarter. I stayed inside and napped in the sun in the warmth of my bed where it was much warmer.

Yesterday was eventful. Vacuum came out, and Peyton and I worked on our plan to over throw the even villain. we sat in the bedroom doorway, and watched him terrorize the living room. We are working on a good plan, but are open to ideas. We'd love to hear your thoughts on how to rid ourselves of Vacuum permanently.

Occasionally Mandy will talk with people through the computer. There is a picture on screen, and she can see who she is talking too. Inevitably, she will drag either Peyton or I into her lap and show us the screen. I’ve never been too interested in the talking person on the computer, although I have met them all. But last night there was another cat on the screen! I believe Mandy was talking to Half-Sized Human, and he had a cat! She was very small, and she sniffed the screen. I learned her name was Candy. I held very still and looked at her. I did not know other cats used such devices. We might be able to talk again. As soon the small cat left, I did too. I had to tell Peyton about my new friend!

Peyton is feeling much better. He is still having pills shoved down his throat every morning. However this morning, he went to Mandy and let her pick him up with no chase. Mandy gave him extra treats. She doesn’t think I know that she slips him extra treats, but I know.

Anyway, Peyton got a letter in the mail yesterday. It was a get well card. We love to get mail. It is always so fun to smell of places we’ve never been.

Well, I’m going to watch some football, or maybe take a nap. Or perhaps I'll chase that brother of mine. Don't forget we're open to ideas on terminating Vacuum.

Elway

Climbing

2011-02-03T19:19:00.000-06:00

When Mandy goes to work, we have free reign of the whole house, and it is absolutely amazing! We can climb on all of the counters and play with everything we’re not allowed to when she is home. The best part is climbing all over the kitchen—on the counters, on the stove, the table, and even on top of the fridge. It is glorious to have free reign of the house, but we do miss Mandy while she is gone. When she comes home, we greet her at the door to demand our dinner. She always knows we’ve been on the countertop though, she can see our paw prints or something. Maybe she has a hidden camera. After she feeds us though, we snuggle up near her and sleep.

Elway