Cat Whisperer

Images of Christmas Past

2012-01-16T12:51:00.000-05:00

I found this lovely vintage postcard on ebay toward Christmas. How perfect - my two passions, cats and amaryllis.

Mr. Poole and Manitou are transfixed by something.

Manitou displays his majestic ruffle - all in all, he has floofed out tremendously. And he sure needs the extra warmth today - it is -30!

Little hallway tree.

Rascal the refugee takes comfort from the frigid outdoors.

Longfellow in one of his favourite poses: belly-up!

Living-room tree: good-bye until December 2012.

Manitou surveys the remains of the holiday.

Visitor Noomi loves to have a quick warming boost on the floor heating grate.Clever kitty!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-08T16:27:00.000-05:00

Well, I am very late with an update and best wishes for all for 2012, but sometimes over the holidays, one is so busy doing nothing, there is not time to do anything else! ;) Anyway, here it is Sunday afternoon, and rather than wake up the puddies with some much-needed vacuuming, I am relaxing watching the snow fall lightly, and enjoying the last days of the Christmas tree. I always hate taking everything down - it seems like I just put it all up! All seems warm and cozy, and I suspect the tree will still be here next weekend - breaking my Epiphany rule/deadline. As I write, Chaiyka, pictured above, sleeps in heavenly peace with his little pals that double as pillows. Seeing that face, would YOU start the vacuum?? I think not!

Winter Wonderland - Finally

2011-12-23T14:44:00.000-05:00

Alas I did not have my camera today, and my cell-phone is far from smart - rather dumb in fact! We awoke this morning to a winter wonderland, and it finally looks festive, although the temperature is dropping as I write, and will be very cold by the time I leave the office: minus 8 Celsius or 17F. Brr!
When it gets dark - it will look like this.
I just LOVE this image! Jesse Barnes of course.

Anyway, it is the last day of work - this is the view from my office which has glass walls. Every year, I put up this little tree - much admired by all who drop in I must say, but today, so far, and the day is almost over, no one has come by.
But I am keeping merry with Christmas music and Christmas goodies.
Those Baileys candies sure hit the spot! :)


And here is a festive vintage image of yours truly, very much from the long ago taken with one of those old-fangled cameras - I like that slightly fuzzy effect! (And I thought I was fat! I wish I was fat like that now!) Sigh. How the years fly by.


I close with a cheerful image and with Christmas Greetings to all - and best wishes for the new year!! This was the featured kitty today on the lovely site: "Cat of the Day". Merry Christmas!! And a Happy, Healthy New Year!!

A Silence Deep and White

2011-12-14T13:43:00.001-05:00

The snow had begun to fall in the gloaming,

And busily all the night

Had been heaping field and highway

With a silence deep and white.

James Russell Lowell

Featured today is one of my very favourite vintage Christmas cards. I do not recall where it came from - maybe a garage sale, or a flea market. Or maybe it was tucked away in a donated book - in my line of work, that can happen often. People pass away, their stuff donated or sold - away and onward. I have no idea who the Tibbs or Johnstons were, and although I have had this card for many years, it is the first time I have noticed that Mrs. Johnston writes: "This is not just the book I wanted, but may appeal to the gardener in us all." I wonder what book she may have been referring to? From the look of her handwriting, perhaps she was already advanced in years when she penned these few words. For me personally, the card itself is evocative of Christmases long ago - riding in the countryside with my father and sister - going to ski or snowshoe - feet aching with cold at the end of it all. Then, warming by the wood-stove at a friend's farm - the smell of wet woolen mittens - the welcoming warmth as toes unfroze. A simple sketch accompanied by a few brief lines, and yet draws out such deep and distant memories - tinged with melancholy and sadness of times gone by. Maybe one day someone else will find this card and treasure it as I have. I do hope so. In the meantime, while it lives here, may it stir another soul in need of some "memory and desire" and warmth. I am not so sure of April being the cruellest month...

Not a Christmas Tree

2011-12-06T16:46:00.003-05:00

I took this photograph in late fall, and since then I have marvelled (yes, marvelled :) how much the tip of the plant, Amaranthus Autumn Palette, looks like a wee Christmas tree - a golden tree at that. It even seems that lights are affixed on the tips of the "branches". The plant itself grew to an amazing height of almost 7 feet and produced many such blooms, but this one was the most impressive, and most like a real contender for the festive season. Pretty isn't it?

"HO HO HO - I Love the Snow"

2011-11-23T13:04:00.003-05:00

Any lover of the movie Dr. Zhivago will recall little Katia exclaiming those words as she, Yuri and Lara arrive at Varykino. In this clip, Chaiyka wakes up from his nap to experience his first snow of the season:

But - this guy is not so impressed:

I am home - back problems that are slowly resolving - but it's been horribly painful - getting out of bed is still the worst. Off work for a week. On top of it all, I am alone with the zoo - Cat Wrangler had to go out west for a couple of weeks to. Yes indeed, bending is quite tricky when feeding cats, cleaning litter etc - but I discovered a few tricks to get the very necessary jobs done. And on this first of the season's snow days, Rascal, Reverend and Ping Pong (not mine) have taken refuge in some comfy spots. I am glad I was at home to let them in!!

Last, but never least, the floofalicious Manitou displays his winter coat:

On Waiting

2011-10-26T12:08:00.006-04:00

Waiting for the tiny and very late-blooming Toad Lily (Tricyrtis) to flower, proved not to be in vain. Usually, I only have one lonely bloom, and then the frost swoops in and kills the remaining buds. This year, many buds have been spared. They are so lovely - tiny, intricate, and and as any October flower - most welcome, and treasured.

Waiting is a common theme in life.

"In those days, we imagined ourselves as being kept in some kind of holding pen, waiting to be released into our lives. And when that moment came, our lives – and time itself – would speed up. How were we to know that our lives had in any case begun, that some advantage had already been gained, some damage already inflicted? Also, that our release would only be into a larger holding pen, whose boundaries would be at first indiscernible. (From recent Booker Prize winner, The Sense of an Ending, by Julian Barnes). I have read the first chapter offered free online, as I have now become rather engaged with the whole ebook phenomenon. As a young girl, most of my hours were filled with reading. There was nothing more exciting than that weekly visit to the school library to chose some books, and the feeling of opening those first few pages was like none other - it all lay ahead, like a great adventure waiting to begin. As I grew older, I graduated to Lord of the Rings and such, and of course, completing a degree in English and History required a lot more reading, and my favourites were the Victorians - Dickens and his contemporaries - novels and poetry. But then work came, and a certain amount of laziness I suppose. I stopped reading, not that I didn't try, again and again, only to lay the book aside, abandoned after only a few pages, a chapter at the most. So much easier to turn the telly on, or flip aimlessly through a magazine...

She works in a library and doesn't read? I love, LOVE, the internet, browsing gardening and cat sites, checking on favourite blogs, etc, and having a small device which I can carry with me everywhere to do all that very much appealed to me. A laptop, even a small netbook, is just too heavy and cumbersome. But wait - there is something I can read with as well? Real books? And so, I have found myself reading again - during any spare minutes I have, usually while waiting for buses, or while riding on buses. Sometimes I just like to listen to music while I wait, but reading seems more productive somehow, and certainly takes me "away" from whatever is grinding me down at any given time. As I begin to read, I sometimes think, yes, I remember this feeling - embarking on a new adventure. And in a funny way, the Kobo or Kindle bookstore holds the same promise my little school library once did. By the way, my first ebook is, appropriately, The Archivist by Martha Cooley :)

Harrumph!

2011-10-17T12:43:00.004-04:00

"Yes - it is definitely autumn", ponders Mr. Poole, surrounded by the evidence - "and we all know what is soon to follow - I don't want to think about it!"

As Autumn Sets In

2011-09-28T11:50:00.004-04:00

Photo of Dahlia taken with cheap cell-phone camera creates an unexpectedly beautiful watercolor effect.

Oh dear. It has been awhile. Various issues amongst those close to me have caused some melancholy and stressful times lately. Health issues on my end are rattling what little peace I ever have; I feel I am too young for this, that and the other. But tests don't lie, and while nothing is imminently life-threatening - it is clear the "infrastructure" is not solid, and that is very disturbing - and depressing. As all gardeners of a certain age can attest, freedom of movement is so important, and now it seems a good dose of pain-killers will be required before any major garden "work-out" is attempted.
Osteo Bi-flex is my next hope for some relief.
Promises, promises.

Now, how boring was all that, eh? Happily, we have had only 2 frost warnings so far, and neither of them materialized. My Dahlias are happy about that!

Dahlia - Purplicious

Flowering Maple I grew from seed several years ago, blooms yellow in the summer, and in the fall the flowers are tinged with pink - so lovely.

Fresh rain on Acidanthera leaves....

also known as Peacock Orchid...

I grow these (bulbs) every year just for this time of the season - they smell heavenly!

Sweet Dahlia duet - grown from seed, which always means happy surprises.

Dahlia White Perfection survived the coming night's frost warning,
the little bee was taking no chances, as he tucked tightly in.
He survived too.

Huge dinner-plate variety - it glowed at dusk like a moon.

Another Dahlia from seed - a beautiful colour with variations.

Dinner-plate Dahlia Peach Brandy was enormous, and glowed like the sun from a distance.

Rudbeckia triloba - the star of the late summer/autumn garden.

Amaryllis Dancing Queen produced 2 very out-of-season blooms on a very short scape, only 2 inches.

She looked divine in the afternoon sun.

Dahlia Fire and Ice - a striking contrast.

Last but not least - and still in bloom - Four O'Clocks (Mirabilis). Sweet-smelling, they open at my place more around 6 or so, and in the cooler weather stay open well past morning. I save the carrot-like tubers every year, and also grow new plants form the easily collected seeds - that look like tiny grenades.
(Hmm - I suspect I said all this last year at the same time :)

This variety is called "Marbles" featuring what is known as
"broken colours".

Visitor? Resident? Stray?
Who knows for sure!
But Rascal sure likes to lounge in the sun-porch!

Sweet Dreams!

An Overdue August Update

2011-08-16T12:22:00.004-04:00

No - I did not go down to the sea, disappear, never to be seen again. Have been busy at work - with a new boss just arrived - always a scary thing! And of course busy with the garden - I always start too much from seed, buy too much from local sources and online, and then panic where to put everything. I never learn!

A view of the back porch - blooms everywhere!

A gift from a friend: an old aquarium which will become my winter project: a terrarium!

Mr. Poole suspects a groundhog is living under the garden shed.
He was right!

A couple of lilies that survived the annual onslaught of the dreaded red lily beetle.

Dahlia: Hawaii

I love love love Daylies: another addiction!

I must have Elephant Ears every year - I love their tropical look.

Another annual must have: Oxalis Iron Cross.
What started with 5 little bulbs many years ago, now multiplies happily every year, overwintering and resting in the basement of course.

Collarette dahlia: Fantastico.
Fantastic indeed!

Daylily grown from seed several years ago.

Lots of these this year - and as much I hate the damage they do, I equally hate stepping on them - I feel sorry.

The fabulous and fiery Frans Hals - which has grown into a fertile and floriferous clump.

Seedlings trio, I have named Burgundy Peach.

I even had a few Amaryllis bloom this summer.
This is Dancing Queen beginning to unfurl.

The Rev is still snacking al fresco, whilst neighbor cat
Noomi hopes for leftovers.

Million Bells (Callibrachoa) with Flowering Maple in the background. It was a bare twig to be thrown out in the spring which magically sprang to life in the summer sun and heat.

Mouthwatering Daylily Strawberry Candy.

Longfellow lounges.

Cedar Cup - same family as Malva (Hollyhock and Flowering Maple)
Isn't that center penta-star lovely?

Every year I grow Four O'Clocks from seed and then save the tubers much like dahlias.

This variety is the vibrant Limelight. Regular FOC's have darker foliage and with this type, makes for a lovely combination.

More to come!

I must go down to the sea.....

2011-07-20T12:30:00.007-04:00

We are in the middle of a sweltering heatwave, and any kind of body of water is welcome, as was the lakeside visit this past weekend. Thank you Chrissie! But it has been years and years since I have seen the ocean, and out of curiosity I checked out some East Coastline views via Google Street-view - which is so much fun. And so, a little wistfully, during my lunch-break at work, I travel along the ocean and seaside roads. This view in particular struck me. Perhaps it is the anticipation of actually seeing the ocean in full - the vast expanse to cross over - and then - finally - there it is.

I Must Go Down to the Sea by John Masefield

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,
And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea's face and a grey dawn breaking.

I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.

Garden, Gift and Gnome

2011-06-28T12:41:00.005-04:00

My neighbor recently asked if I would like to have like her old patio set, and when I saw it, I instantly realized the possibilities. It really was not that old and she said it was a great set for family get-togethers. Well to heck with that I thought. You see, I am a mega mosquito magnet - it must be that sweet Polish blood and fair skin, and that is why I spend any leisure/meal time in the safe confines of the solarium, where I can look at the garden and not get devoured, as I do continually whilst I garden. Repellent does not deter the buggers much - what a scourge!

Anyway, getting back to the patio set - as the photos indicate, the glass table and huge umbrella gives me a fabulous large work space, and provides much-needed shade. The glass top makes it look much classier than plastic, and our little neighbor's cat Noomi, thinks it is, and sorry I can't resist, the cat's meow! And as an added bonus - the table came with 4 very comfy chairs that also came with comfy weatherproof cushions. These are being well used by the feline residents. The chairs are in shady nook of the garden, and what better place to have a snooze on a warm afternoon. Pics of those to come soon.

The table is totally covered after my trip to the nursery.

Little Noomi - he is so cute!! He was the first to jump on the table - amazing he actually found a spot amid all those plants!

Callibrachoa, or Million Bells, in a juicy punch color.

My latest favourite: Verbena - and it stays through light frost at the end of the season.

A very different Pelargonium (Geraniums to most folks), with leaves like a Coleus - also soft and fuzzy - gorgeous.

Newest Daylily: Jamaican Me Crazy. I now have over 50 varieties - the newest ones are so large and very beautiful, and there are thousands now available.

Flirtatious Fuschia! Like petticoats on a can-can dancer....

Arrangement hanging off the porch railing: peach impatiens and blue lobelia - the blue in real life is much more vibrant.

Zesty Daylily Sammy Russell after a shower.

And despite his dubious look, my latest garden inhabitant - a recent gift from my sister - is surely pleased with what he sees. A garden gnome - every good garden must have at least one!

Updates - Spring at Maple Grove Gardens

2011-06-09T12:43:00.003-04:00

The Collaring of the Cats

As an update to the dreaded visit by our local SPCA, we were given 48 hours to collar, with tags, all our cats. And since we really did not want to find out what the "or else" might be, off we went to find suitable collars and get replacement tags for those that had been lost long ago. Now, anyone who has cats, probably is well aware of this next great challenge - especially for those that have never ever worn a collar before. Here is how it all panned out:

- Tristan the White was first - his reaction typical: "Oh my God, what have you done to me - I can't stand - I can't walk - ack! I am crippled!" Then, he disappeared for about 15 minutes, returned without the collar, and with somewhat of a smug look on his face - "ah, that's better" - he seemed to convey. You see, these are the safe "breakaway" collars - and that's exactly what he did - quite skillfully and in record time! Maybe we should nickname him Houdini!?

- Manitou, the Caramel - well, he's had a collar before, and whilst he really would prefer to remain "au naturel" - it is still on.

- Chaiyka, the Tabby&white, sports a red one, and seems to be rather accustomed to it - a bit tricky at first, but now no problem

- Mr. Poole, the black - like Chaiyka, it was a rough start, but now he's ok with it

As for the 2 "illegals" - Bandito and Longfellow - they are my sister's cats that I look after every now and then ;) Both have collars, no tags though. I will have to append something to make them look "legal".

I must say that all this has rattled us. We feel we are being watched, and we don't know by whom. Which of those smiling neighbors is it? Or is it the non-smiling ones? We try not to let the gang out all in one herd, but sometimes that is hard. And it doesn't help when at any given time, there are 4 cats on the porch - and they aren't even mine! Even the next door neighbor's cat - just a shared driveway away - comes when the "dinner gong" (aka can opener) is sounded. Good grief!

Anyway - dreadful heat wave at the moment, and the cats are much in favor of us installing an air-conditioner - finally! I for one seem to be less and less tolerant of this heat as the years go by.
Even lounging about outside seems to give little relief to the furred ones.

Tristan and Chaiyka nap together....pre-collars

Some lovely shots of our regular visitor, Ping-Pong - so elegant, slightly oriental-looking and sleek.......and no collar!

The Reverend relaxes and strikes a pose....

Mr. Poole, at the other end of the table, makes sure The Rev stays in line... "I'm watching you".... ahem...I don't think The Rev looks too frightened! By the way - someone put his white flea collar back on again...but as of last week, it is off once more. Hmm....

Spring flowers - now just a memory....

Ping-Pong plays.....

My first daylily (Middendorfii) - a very early variety and the flowers stay open for 2 days not the usual one...

I love, LOVE, to see things sprout and grow!

Fuming Mad!

2011-05-19T13:27:00.002-04:00

Yes, really angry and depressed. The local SPCA paid us a visit yesterday - of course I was at work - Cat Wrangler dealt with it. Of all the horrible things going on in this province re. animal cruelty/abuse, puppy mills etc., they come to MY door because some (excuse me) bastard has complained there seem to be too many cats and pointed a finger at me. All because I have a couple over the limit - 2, that's all - the rest are visitors - they like to hang out in my garden, as you all know. I have a nice big garden and many like to visit. I am just fuming angry! The worst is not knowing which of my neighbors is the one - it must be someone close by, if they can actually see into the garden. What small lives such people must have - nothing to do but complain about others. I could complain about a lot of neighborhood stuff if I wanted to: loud cars that rattle my windows, loud parties til 3 in the a.m., but most of the time, it's "live and let live". The beginning of my summer has now been ruined by this unknown spiteful cat-hater. Does anyone know of any evil spells that actually work???

Maple Grove News

2011-05-05T12:06:00.007-04:00

It is Cinco de Mayo - and I absolutely refused to wear tights today. Yes, it is cold - just below 40F - but I'd rather freeze than give in on May 5 for heaven's sake! Even the poor daffodils, the few that were brave enough to emerge recently, seem to be shivering and look rather miserable (unlike the ones featured above - Cancer Society fundraiser a few weeks ago).

Quite a change from last Wednesday when we were sent home from work at noon due to possible flood risk. Although the waters rose very high, no serious flooding occurred, and instead I had a most unexpected lovely afternoon at home, starting with a delightful lunch:

The blue Hydrangea on the table was an Easter gift from Cat Wrangler. The day was a real heatwave - over 80F and humid. Working in the garden was almost a hardship. Almost. Cold beer breaks helped :) All in all, this afternoon was a real gift, and I got lots done, cleaning and tidying the sun-porch, not the least of the tasks - and it sure felt good to officially start the season. Alas, you wouldn't know it today.

The following weekend was a little more normal temperature-wise, and much needed raking was done - a task too difficult in last Wednesday's sweltering heat. More comfortable in cooler spring temps, here are the first harbingers of the beginning of the spring season: delicate blue Glory-of-the-Snow (Chionodoxa), and the delightful yellow Trout Lily:

The Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum) is so small (less than 6 inches tall) and low to the ground, that one must get down on hands and knees and point the camera upward under them, as their petals totally recurve in the daytime and close up at dusk or on cloudy days. It is so named probably because the foliage is sort of fish-shaped and mottled. They are multiplying every year, as I intentionally allow the fallen leaves to remain in the hedge borders to create a wood-like environment, in which Trout Lily thrives. Their foliage seems invasive in the early spring - but after the heat of May, they disappear into the ground or lawn, if they have spread that far. I recall when I first moved to this house, I was concerned this was a noxious weed, as I did not know anything at all about plants, especially native ones. But with the help of the internet, and a great site called "Name That Plant", where folks post pictures of their botanical mysteries, I soon learned what I had. I don't care much for lawns anyway, so it matters not that the delicate and ephemeral Trout Lily is happily is spreading its little rhizomes underground.

Speaking of raking and general garden clean-up, I came across this the other day, tucked inside an old hollowed-out tree stump:

Hmm, someone around here has an extreme idea of what mouse-hunting is all about! Too funny, don't you think?

And of course Friday we had the Royal Wedding, which, lover of sleep that I am, I was able to catch on the replay later in the day. For the occasion, the chef prepared some bacon butties and beans on toast (amongst other delights):

By the looks of Kate Middleton, I doubt she partakes of bacon butties very often!

And last but not the least of my news, The Reverend was finally released from his "bondage" on Easter Monday. He was nowhere to be seen for 2 days, but finally appeared on the hot Wednesday I spoke of earlier:

And so, he kept appearing daily to have his usual breakfast, whilst Mr. Poole does his best to make sure he doesn't get back into the house - he stands on guard, alternately between the front and back doors. The Rev is ALWAYS ravenous! And yesterday – are you ready for this – he showed up with a brand new white flea collar on him!!!!! And I doubt he put it on himself! Talk about being gob-smacked, and more than a little annoyed, $244 later for someone else’s cat! Someone who has no clue how to take care of one either! Whoever has this cat, does not feed him, does not treat him for injuries, and did not fix him. This is a new one for us. Yes, totally gob-smacked.

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T17:18:00.005-04:00

Easter Sunday afternoon update: we visit The Rev in his private room regularly. Dare I say he seems to like it? Scrubbling his neck results in mega-purrs (he even does head-butts!), which is a very good sign - then he puts his head down as if to say, "ok, I think I'll nap a bit more." :) But yesterday was quite a different story: we had tried letting him out of the spare room - he freaked out totally and started to climb the back door - Cat Wrangler was able to nab him again, and put him back into the room, where he was once very calm. Hmm....this could take a while....

* * * * * * * * * *
The weather is coolish, but from tomorrow onward it will begin to to rise a fair bit. A couple of weeks ago, we opened the solarium, it was warm enough to sow some seeds in pots out there, and the double windows were still in, providing extra warmth. While the place is nowhere near ready, or officially open, as you can see, Manitou found a comfy nest nevertheless. He was very content.

When I was young, a teenager - I recall a bright sunny Easter Sunday morning. Cat Stevens on the radio was singing "Morning Has Broken." It seemed like a perfect moment...and all was right with the world. I think Manitou was having just such a moment...

Update on The Reverend

2011-04-21T16:43:00.003-04:00

The Easter weekend is upon us - it is almost May and I have surrounded my blog with lots of green, because, believe it or not, it has been snowing today! No! Enough! At least my blog is greening up - no signs of daffodils or anything in real life - the garden even has tiny snow mountains left. Blech!

Anyway, I am sure you are all waiting for the important update on The Reverend. He was finally nabbed by the resident Cat Wrangler yesterday – (who does a lot of the “dirty” work). The Cat Whisperer (me!) coos and whispers sweet nothings to the patients when they return from "that place" that the awful Cat Wrangler took them to :) Monday we had seen The Rev with a bad wound to the head – Cat Wrangler said it looked like a hole! And we hadn't seen him since – we were worried. Wednesday morning however, Cat Wrangler snatched him when he finally appeared and thrust the poor thing into the bathroom. As we have no car, we rely on the good graces of our regular vet to come to the house – it costs more, but it is worth it. I suppose we could have called a cab but The Rev is very odiferous at the moment! Cat Wrangler brought him home at the end of the day - all treated for various things, inculding a nasty abscess, but most importantly, he won't be out there anymore procreating and adding to the dismal and sad pet over-population problem. He was sequestered in the spare room overnight, and still for today, but he is quite approachable. I am sure he had the best night's sleep he's had in a long, long time: warm, tummy full :) Of course, the other feline residents know something is up - it always is when THAT door is closed - but - as always, after a few "hairy"encounters, I am confident he will settle in.

Inspired by a dream...life...fears...

2011-04-17T12:40:00.004-04:00

Paradise Lost

As I looked back to wave goodbye, she was sitting on “our bench”, both of us forcing cheerful smiles. Here, this bench was our designated meeting place at the end of the day. This was no romantic tryst. This was now our daily routine. Each day was now a fight for simple existence – a struggle and search for the very basics: shelter, food, water. I put on a brave face, for her benefit mostly, and left.

Each time I left her this way, I realized she should never leave my side, not under these circumstances. But without her I could travel faster and further. I knew the places that held most promise for scant supplies – and these places would often be the most dangerous. If I was lucky, and found more than I could carry, I would stash the rest – very carefully, and come back for it later. I knew, and so did she, that if we went together, she would slow me down – she would hold me back. Yes, she agreed, realizing her physical limitations, which in these last desperate weeks grew more and more pronounced. This worried me greatly.

In the first few weeks, home, if you could call it that, was a grim and dirty warehouse, filled with equally grimy cots. Here, people were mostly civilized, for now. But one could sense a pervading feeling of fear – a quiet desperation – an overwhelming sense, if not certainty, that this cannot last. Something had to give. On these dirty cots we slept, if you could call it sleep. We woke regularly to disturbing sounds in the night – furtive rustlings nearby – often too close. She would sometimes beg me to see if it was one of our cats. I would humour her and take a look, but we both knew our little family had long since disappeared – we had no home to give them anymore – and so they left, one by one - looking for food, or running from harm. Sometimes, as we walked the ruined, jagged streets, we thought we caught a glimpse of so-and-so, and as usual, she would urge me to run ahead and see. But their appearance was fleeting – and even if it was one of ours – they had long since forgotten us – our old world – before it happened – before it all changed so completely. Throughout the wasteland vistas, human and animal were almost on equal footing – trying to stay alive.

Those were our nights, and the days not much better. The few things we had, we carried with us constantly – we were all homeless people now. I guess it might have been unrealistic to expect her to guard all our possessions for an entire day – but the regular places were becoming too dangerous to linger in for too long. As each place became untenable, we found another, and there she would wait until I returned. This last one, after the warehouse became too crowded, was almost beautiful. It was the site of an old municipal garden, now sadly overgrown and ruined. But it had a shelter of sorts, and very few had yet made it their home as well. And unless the rain was torrential – it was quite acceptable. A giant half-collapsed gazebo gave the place a Grey Gardens or Great Expectations atmosphere: the gloom was semi-romantic, the dirt was somehow more natural. But it was still summer, and the fall would force us to abandon our little piece of paradise, such as it was. These days, I dared not think too much further ahead than the current day. Because soon, I knew we would have to travel fast – fast enough to stay ahead and away from the “gangs” that were becoming larger, more organized and more threatening every day. She could not walk fast – and not for long. If we ever would have to run – I knew she could not. This was becoming an increasing concern for me. I was afraid for her – each time I left.

* * * * * * * * * * *

On that particular day, I had come across some great stuff – supplies that would last us for a few weeks, and stashing the excess close by, I would be able to stay with her for a good part of the day – and that was a relief. I almost felt happy. But arranging all this took more time than usual. I was late. I increased my pace, and almost inexplicably I broke into a run. I sensed something was wrong as I approached the ruin. The bench was abandoned, our things remained nearby in tidy bundles – but she was nowhere to be seen. Approaching closer, I noticed a tiny piece of paper, attached with the stem of a daisy to the armrest of the bench:

Sweetie - back soon – sure I saw Chesney…

I never saw her again.

The Reverend

2011-04-08T12:12:00.006-04:00

One thing about cats, is that they don't dwell on things - they live in the moment - enjoy the moment. If they can. Would that we could be like that. Here we have the first official photo of "The Reverend", so called because when he first appeared around Christmas, he had a white flea collar, which, against the black made him look rather clerical. This collar is now off, and I fear there might be an irritation there now - hard to tell, since he is skittish, and doesn't allow me to touch him - yet. And - he is not operated, which as every responsible pet owner knows, is a very bad thing, for various reasons. But - this morning as I was heading out the door for work, I almost didn't recognize him: he looked more healthy and solid, and his fur was shining in the sun. I held out a hand, and touched him ever so briefly. Progress! Indeed, he has been getting regular good quality food, which is allowing him to live better outside, and soon we will have to trap him, to have that famous trip to the veterinarian that no one likes to talk about (but - they all would admit to feeling much better afterward). We shall see how this progresses.

Memory & Desire

2011-04-01T12:56:00.005-04:00

It has been a Heathcliff, Wuthering Heights, and Kate Bush kind of a week. One image leading to another - then to a feeling - and still later to an impression, from long ago - barely there just hovering in the the mists of time. My time - my long ago time. YouTube is great. I needed badly to see and hear Kate Bush performing Wuthering Heights, and Sensual World, the latter of which is stunning, and I believe her mysterious magnetism caused unexpected emotions in both men and women. It still does from the comments I have read. One person commenting on the Sensual World video said: "Would that we could all have ourselves digitally stored at the height of our powers." The height of our powers indeed - when we were young and the future stretched before us like a limitless shore. We could not see what was ahead, nor did we care to. The moment was all.

"But how she was before the tears,
And how she was before the years flew by,
And how she was when she was beautiful. "

So sings Kate in Babooshka. Flashback to the Limelight, Montreal in the 80's with my brother and sister. It was the Studio 54 of our youth. How did I look when I was dancing there?

"Would that we could all have ourselves digitally stored at the height of our powers."

If I could go back, and see that young woman dancing - surely now I would think she was perfection - life was perfect. But would I give up today for yesterday, if such a machine or magic existed? The futility of backward glances. Such random ruminations. Is it because spring is coming? Because "April is the cruelest month", as T.S. Eliot observed:

April is the cruelest month, breeding
Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing
Memory and desire, stirring
Dull roots with spring rain.
Winter kept us warm, covering
Earth in forgetful snow, feeding
A little life with dried tubers.
[....]
I will show you fear in a handful of dust.

Yes, memory and desire. Forgetful snow. Every once in a while one reads a poem or lines in a novel, and you know, you just know what is true, and you feel the very essence of what the author meant to say, what he felt, what it means to be alive, yet also to mourn. Not one without the other.

[Sigh].

Well, speaking of dried tubers - my dahlias are quite alive - sprouting away in the basement. Always a little bit of a miracle when I discover those beautiful green, healthy shoots - emerging from such ugly, sometimes grotesque shapes and forms. There is hope.

Days

by Ralph Barker Gustafson

From Fate's grim palette
Time paints our days
With the colours of Destiny.
One broad sweep
And our day is made
With contrasts of harmony.
By merely the turn
Of a finger of Time
Joy or woe may come
With the bliss of blue
Or the gloom of grey -
Or however the tints may run.
Though hidden deep,
At times not found.
In the shades of night
Or in the mists of day,
There still remains
For those who seek,
Beauty in the grey.

Sick & Tired

2011-03-16T22:30:00.003-04:00

Tired of being sick. Still coughing my lungs out. I am sure it is the worst flu I've had in years, and because I have asthma, my lungs always get hit worst of all. As a little girl in England, I had bronchitis every year, and even the first few years in Canada, I recall being "in bed" for 2 weeks. But, I have not felt this sick in over a decade. It's arrival was weird. It approached - hovered - retreated -and then slammed in good and proper. A very odd pattern that I've not ever expereinced before. Maybe what did me in was going in to work last Thursday - it was really important, and I just had to go - and the whole day was go-go-go. Then I collapsed for the weekend, and then some. And because we cannot stay home longer than 3 consecuvtive working days without having a doctor's note, I am attempting go back tomorrow. Why don't I have one? Well, perhaps some of you might understand: I am simply too sick to go to the doctor!

Now I shall try to go to my happy and hopeful place (deserted much too often) filled with visions of seeds sprouting, snow melting, and bulbs emerging. So, in the words of Bridget Jones, I am off to Bedfordshire....

Snowed In - and Out Sick

2011-03-09T15:40:00.004-05:00

Our part of Quebec recently received close to 80 cm. of snow! That's an overwhelming, walloping amount that came down in just 24 hours. Digging out from the back porch was a huge, huge job in itself. The city was pretty much shut down, and people stayed home from work, kids from school. Some doctors and others were transported to their work on snowmobiles. On the verge of being sick with a bad cold or flu - I was tucked safe inside watching it all. Below is an example of how I have been spending my last 2 days, and feel free to break out into Paul McCartney's "Ebony (Mr. Poole) and Ivory (Tristan)".... (and yes, I am under there, somewhere...when it comes to "prime real-estate" like human laps, even sworn enemies call a truce :)

Today, I am officially sick, but I hope the worst is over. When I am sick, I get even more blue than usual - dwelling and wallowing over all sorts of things. I think if it were not for my cats, I'd just stay in bed. They kind of force me to "get with it". I was awoken today (very late) with the beautiful white Tristan perched on my shoulder, which he never does, peering down at me, as if to say, "oye, you down there - you ok?" As soon as he realized I was indeed still alive, he hopped down. I do believe he was genuinely concerned.

"Me and my shadow".... (Manitou and Mr. Poole)

And to close, another sunny amaryllis shot.

Happy March!

2011-03-01T12:48:00.002-05:00

Recent blooms in my window garden:

Basking in the sun...

The elegant Aphrodite...

Flamenco Queen - hot and spicey!

Temptation...

Amaryllis on parade...

Close-up of Aphrodite...

Bandito strikes a pose...

Amorice.

Happy March everyone - we're getting there!

Hurry and Waste

2011-02-21T12:24:00.007-05:00

Why should we live with such hurry and waste of life? We are determined to be starved before we are hungry. - Henry David Thoreau

Sometimes I lie awake before sleep comes, and compose lengthy, poetic and reflective blog posts in my head. Alas, they are often quite lugubrious as well: on death and dying, the meaning of it all, or the meaninglessness of it all...etc etc. Just last night, another cold spell, I thought of how my porch will look after I am gone: no warm pillows on chairs for wayward desperate cats, no friendly voice to usher them in for a snack and some warmth. Surely, most of the ones I have saved would be dead by now had I not saved them. But we only do what we can while we are here, as we have no control over the future, or how things may be afterward. Even as I write I find it difficult to express. I have had the cloud hanging over me all my life, but more so now that years seem to go by faster, and with them the onset of physical "issues". Would that we could simply dry up gracefully as my beloved amaryllis do: shrivel to paper thin, then gently fall off the stem.

Sigh.

So before I lose whatever audience I have left with my "waste of time" let us go back to cats and flowers for awhile, and keep at bay the darker thoughts. For this is all we have, this package deal, all that makes up this life, this gift that we sometimes curse in times of loss, pain and suffering. Yet always we cling to it - not ready to go, not just yet. I have many more seeds yet to sow...

The beautiful Rascal - our refugee from the cold...

Longfellow sleeps...

Bandito hears that wonderful sound: the can-opener!

Pink is the color of my true love's nose, in the evening, while he sleeps...Tristan.

"Cats ALWAYS live in the NOW. They are fully present in the moment. Even when that moment involves napping! They enjoy the NOW and make the most of it, whatever the day presents for them." Elaine Bailey

Cold and Snow and Sleep

2011-02-04T12:05:00.005-05:00

Since my last post, it has been dreadfully cold - so much so that the cats we sheltered at Christmas came back again, for some much needed warmth and peaceful sleep. As you can see, they do seem to appreciate it:

My childhood teddy keeps Rascal company whilst he sleeps, and perhaps dreams of birdies like the one in the calendar photo. I am glad he cannot catch this one ...

There's something about a window seat...

Sylvester keeps my chair warm (dogury nogamy :) ...

Sylvester spies something, or someone ....

Tristan cozies up with a blanket...

Bandito and Azalea...

Amaryllis time!! This one is Aphrodite - I love the red picotee edging ...

Supposed to be Red Lion, but it seems much more exotic, a nice mistake in labelling...

And last but not least, killer icicles - view from workplace hallway.

Keep warm and safe everyone!

Chaiyka

In the Bleak Midwinter

2011-01-17T12:33:00.005-05:00

This weekend we had a special dinner party - a small intimate group - to end the season officially. A wonderful lasagna, delightful full-bodied red wine, brandy chocolates for dessert, and good movie afterward. All this with Christmas decorations still plentiful, including the Christmas tree (believe it or not). Here is the centerpiece made from a newly purchased mold - just fill with water, freeze and voila - a lovely icy star-shaped candle-holder, decorated with seasonal touches (I was having a Martha moment!)

It was a quiet night, but very enjoyable, even though some decided to wear lampshades (it was NOT THAT kind of party!)

Beautiful Sylvester, a neighbor's cat, came in to warm up - minus 20 today!

Sometimes he rushes in laden with snow, eager for a snack at the local "Kitty Daycare"!

And last but not least, the arrival of the amaryllis. This one is called Intokazi, and as you can see in other photos of the window garden, more scapes (flower stalks) are pushing upward, to provide much needed color now that the holiday greenery etc. has been taken down. In the winter months, my entire garden, which is a very large one, is reduced to this one windowsill. There reside the amaryllis of course, and various others including azaleas that always bloom for me at the holidays, and various geraniums, which may be considered ordinary in the summer, but in winter are colorful treasures indeed. The newly installed fluorescent lights in the basement have prompted and encouraged growth and even flowering, and as soon as I spot an imminent bloom cluster, up it comes to grace the window garden. Currently, we have some splendid peach colored types, and at Christmas we even had some bright red ones (a beautiful and different "Sparkler" variety). I could not survive the bleak winter without my winter windowsill garden.

New Year - New Look for the Blog...

2011-01-10T12:46:00.004-05:00

For now anyway. I thought this looked nice and crisp and cold to better convey how it feels in snowy, blowy Quebec. And alas I have no inspirational photos to share at the moment so I will share a picture of me at the blowy, snowy bus stop - taken last year by myself with my cellphone. Do I hear someone calling "Tonya, Tonya!" ??

Snifter Snoozer

2010-12-31T18:32:00.009-05:00

(Snifter Snoozer)

It seems as though every time I have attempted to update my blog or write to friends or family (Joasia - if you reading this - sorry for my lateness!) - there is an interruption. Usually a good one to be sure, but an interruption nevertheless.

To recap a little: I decked the halls, made myself and others jolly, and I even donned some gay apparel (ha-ha). I sang joyous - by myself and with others, and I was most definitely heedless of the wind and weather - I stayed indoors! I am embarrassed to say (am I really?) the only fresh air I got was whilst letting the cats in and out and in and out - well - you get the idea. And yet, a whole week has flown by anyway - the time seem to fly, even when not doing much of anything.

Some helped me decorate...

Some kept active (unlike me)...

And still others refused to share any glad tidings whatsoever, and agreed to disagree, briefly, whilst facing opposite directions...

And there were Christmas visitors - three cats comprising of Picolo Angelo, who slept all Christmas Eve night in Angel's favourite spot by the tree - it felt as if Angel was actually with us - quite amazing he chose her very spot to sleep in...

And the two neighborhood scamps, Rascal (aka, Is-he-or-isn't he homeless - sorry no pic this time - he moves too fast!), and Sylvester (long-haired, black and white) slept overnight in the basement on some warm and comfy old comforters at Christmas, as it was bitterly cold and it was obvious they were locked out for the night. I must say I slept soundly and peacefully knowing that at least these three were warm and safe on what had been so far the coldest night of the holidays.

And of course a new box is always the best pressie...

Today, New Year's Eve, the temperature has risen, and it almost feels like spring. So much so, that several of the residents actually slept on the porch this afternoon.

I was very late decking my halls this year (the tree was decorated on Christmas Eve - this has never happened before - lack of time and Christmas spirit was to blame), so I won't be taking it all down any time soon.

We all love the way it looks - cozy and warm and dreamy. I am sure I am always amongst the very last to "de-Christmas" the house. I really don't look forward to that task as it always feels sad and depressing, so I try to enjoy it as long as possible.

And so, by the end of this evening it is possible I will resemble this little fellow at the top of the page, once again from a vintage 1960's card, entitled "Snifter Snoozer". However, it takes a lot less these days to reach the bottom of the glass! Happy New Year everyone - health above all, and happiness in equal amounts! Cheers! And Na zdrowie!

So This is Christmas...

2010-12-23T13:43:00.005-05:00

"A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear". - John Lennon

So, I recently read these lines on someone's blog:

When in fear
and when in doubt.....
Run in circles............
Scream and shout!

It was a little poem he had read in school a long time ago, and today, it truly made me smile - out loud! Me, who worries so much about everything. What if this, what if that - I think it was Neil Young who wrote "all the things I worried about never happened anyway", or something like that. After all, worrying is like a rocking chair - it gives you something to do, but doesn't get you anywhere. Anyway, there is this person I don't know (Hi John!) all the way in North Wales, who made me smile - all the way over here in snowy Quebec. James Taylor is singing "Auld Lang Syne" - it's the last day of work, the afternoon will fly by, and I say Merry Christmas to all, and thank you to John in Wales.

(Vintage Christmas card)

Black

2010-12-17T15:55:00.005-05:00

A closeup of neighbor's Mr. Poole look-alike. Taken with cell camera.

We have comfy waiting areas, and snacks too! He looks like a diminutive version of our Mr. Poole.

Black cat with white collar - word is out!

This guy maybe lives with "black cat with white collar" - not sure, but he loves to have long naps in our indoor baskets. Picture this – 3:00 in the morning, November 11th - Remembrance Day – everyone asleep – I am awoken by sounds on the dresser – light goes on to reveal what I think is Mr Poole, but wait – he is much smaller – and not fluffy – a sleek, miniature black panther, on the dresser in front of the mirror – who, unbeknownst to us, had been inside probably since dinnertime and fell asleep somewhere. And now, where does he make a beeline to? Angel’s old basket which is high on top of a chest of drawers. (we lost our little black Angel end of Sept.) Of all places! I tell you it was spooky – how did he know – I swear he went directly to it. He settled in and peered down at us contentedly – lights out. If he is homeless – we may just call him Angelo. Lately, we call him Piccolo Angelo - in remembrance of our sweet Angel that left us too soon this past fall.

Piccolo Angelo.

Sweet Angel, often called Angelina Jolie - Jolie petit (beautiful little Angelina) - who loved to sleep by the Christmas tree - I have never seen a cat that seemd to love the holiday season so much.

Resting now past the Rainbow Bridge...

White

2010-12-07T12:57:00.004-05:00

Tristan rarely sits still, as he is too busy knocking things off any surface onto the floor. So this picture perhaps catches him contemplating his next act of vandalism? But he is a sweetie, and when he comes from the cold his nose is oh-so-pink!!

Yesterday we got walloped with lots of snow and blowing snow, and yet inside I have my flowering geraniums, and this white lily, which decided to set a bloom in late, late fall, and so brought it in, pot and all, before the frost arrived. For several weeks now we have enjoyed this pure white loveliness. There were 2 blooms in succession.

Chaiyka Assists with Mail Call !

2010-11-23T12:40:00.005-05:00

Hiya - wadya get ???

Let me help you open it!

Blech! Needs some sardine oil...

OK - I think I'm making progress... (nom...nom...)

Right - That corner's done - next corner!

(Ah - can't wait 'til Christmas unwrapping - I'm your cat for the job!)

Tiny Toad Lily

2010-11-06T12:10:00.004-04:00

This little gem was the very last bloom in the garden: the very small and delicate Toad Lily. It is so late to form buds, that only one flower managed to unfold before the severely killing frost zapped all the remaining greenery, and flowers.

Rudbeckia triloba is a "must-have" for me, as it always is the last to bloom, but well ahead of the frost and hence there is lots of time to enjoy it. Also, it is remarkable for its upright and well-branching habit - so it rarely needs staking. The stems are long, light and airy - in some light, at dusk, it appears the blooms are floating in mid-air, dancing in the early evening breeze. Just beautiful, and I don't know why more people don't have this cultivar. There will be more next year to enliven the fall garden.

But, frost has come, and it even snowed last weekend. The cats are grumpy that the weather has curtailed their activities, although secretly, I am happiest when I know all my babies are inside, as a blanket of snow deepens and curls around the house, keeping us all warm and safe.

Autumn Poem

2010-11-02T17:27:00.003-04:00

Autumn hills lie purpled,
Barren are the fields,
Garnered is the harvest,
That the summer yields.

Autumn leaves are falling,
Skies are dull and gray;
Wild geese southward calling,
Howeward fly today.

Autumn winds are blowing,
Cold, and damp, and drear;
Winter is approaching,
Filling mean with fear.

Autumn snows are falling,
From the lowering sky,
Giving us a signal --
Winter's drawing nigh.

Anonymous,
1928

Painting by Claude Monet

Thanksgiving

2010-10-15T12:08:00.003-04:00

I had meant to post this on my sister's birthday, as this vintage postcard reminds me of how she was as a little girl - especially from the old photos - always hugging a kitty. Then I meant to post it on Thanksgiving, but other things were (and still are) on my mind. But without more delay, here it is, in recognition of my gratitude that my sister is back in my life again, something which i probably don't say often enough (have I said it at all?)

Endings

2010-10-08T12:36:00.006-04:00

Drying, dying - little hearts
Just hanging by a thread
Waiting for the final gust of wind.
Soon, soon...

Buckets of Rain

2010-10-04T14:56:00.002-04:00

"Buckets of rain, buckets of tears..."

In this part of Quebec, the skies opened fully last Friday and even caused serious local flooding, but we were ok, and it was my day off, otherwise I would have been stranded at work. The weather matched my aching heart completely: and still I cannot understand why, and how, Angel was found on the side of the road: she was always in the garden, and I often thought what a good girl she was to stay on the property, unlike some of the others. We will never know who, or why...

As I sat on the edge of the bed after a bath recently, I was thinking how our little routine would never be again: upon exiting the bathroom, Angel would come to cuddle with me, sensing the warmth off my skin and inside my bathrobe. This time, as I sat there, sniffling quietly to myself, little white Tristan hopped onto the bed and nudged me, as though he sensed my pain. He looked at me briefly with that at once funny and sad little face and then quietly lay down beside me...

"Life is sad
Life is a bust
All ya can do is do what you must."
(Bob Dylan)

Angel

2010-09-27T15:22:00.001-04:00

So, the cosmos decided to give me another birthday present this year: I just got news that Angel is dead – found by the side of the road. She never went out onto the road, she was always in the garden. Lately she was getting more and more affectionate – and we had a routine, after my bath, she’d hop out of her basket and cuddle with me. We never know when it’s going to be the last time. Last year at this time, Timmy was alive, but fading fast - a sudden illness, and was gone the day before the 29th, my birthday. Then Chesney in May. Three have now gone – in one year. Angel appeared as tiny kitten that fit in the palm of my hand - on my birthday - all those years ago. She would not, could not, ever be held - affection was on her own terms - when she chose.

Sometimes it seems like life is just one long misery. Teaches me to have the blues for no good reason...

Fading of the green...into blue

2010-09-22T12:34:00.003-04:00

[What is it? Answer further down...]

While I do love the fall with its cooler, more humane temperatures and glowing foliage, I also get the blues big-time knowing what is waiting just around the corner. I hate not being able to dine in the solarium as it's too cold - the increasing darkening of the days - the fading blooms on even the stalwart rudbeckias and such. Today is the last day of summer, as the Autumn Equinox teams up with the full moon to officially end the season tomorrow. And of course all summer I have half expected to see Chesney wander back into the garden; his sudden disappearance in May certainly cast a shade of sadness over the summer.

But, we have had lots of good times: cat visitors, cat adventures, long evening dinners out on the porch, chilled rose wine at weekend brunches, and of course flowers, lots of flowers:

Answer: Water bead on Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta) - don't you just love that?!

Droopy and healf-dead all winter inside, Abutilon, or Flowering Maple, explodes with delicate blooms by mid-summer and continues until frost...

Tigridia, or Mexican Shellflower: a gorgeous but annoying flower as it can only be seen early in the day as I leave the house in haste on my way to work. I take a quick photo, because by the time I get back, it has already closed. Good grief, even the Daylily has the decency to remain open until I get home! I don't think I'll grow it again until I retire - so I can see it all day :)

More to come....

Tristan Brings a Friend

2010-08-21T16:12:00.004-04:00

Tristan is a little scrapper - albeit a sweet one. He often stays out all night, refusing to come in with the rest of the gang at the end of the evening. And sometime he'll come back with a slightly bloody ear, or a nick on his nose, or some grease mark on his pure white fur. Naughty boy! He is obviously going where he shouldn't be going. Early one morning he brought over this fellow - who looks a little bewildered...

Happily this rather serious looking visitor has a collar and and ID tube...
Bandito is hanging in there despite his diabetes. In summer it is sometimes hard to chase him down to give him his shots, but we do what we can....
The new patio furniture is so popular we had to buy another chair! And even so, sometimes we go in to the solarium to find all the "good" chairs occupado by the felines...
And Chaiyka demonstrates that clearly the new couch is only made for one - no room for anyone else - no sirree!

In other news, a small ginger cat was spotted up the street - I hope he's not homeless; a friend is feeding a grey cat that was abandoned after moving day - she cannot keep him; ((sigh)); and Rascal is still begging for food, at times looking totally desperate, at others turning his nose up, and SOMEONE is cutting out his mats - hmm....

Oh yes - that's him on our table - hmmm.....

August in Bloom

2010-08-08T12:44:00.003-04:00

Amaryllis "Matterhorn"...

A simple bouquet in the sun...

Impatiens balsamina...very prolific/invasive, but lovely, and the bees LOVE them...

Daylily "Jen Melon" - a gorgeous shade of melon yellow.

Cat in Marble: Georges Gardet 1907

2010-07-29T14:07:00.007-04:00

As an archivist, loving all things vintage at work and at home, I was happy to have made this recent purchase. It is breathtaking in its simplicity, and the fur looks almost real (click on the picture to enlarge and you will see what I mean). This is a superb study of a young cat with an outstretched precocious paw ready to tip the origami and indeed makes me think of the precocious Tristan who loves to nonchalantly toss things off tabletops.

And after having done a bit of "research" on sculptor Georges Gardet, I feel especially pleased to have something of his works, albeit only a humble postcard of "Jeune Chat" (young cat). I wonder where this piece is today???

Georges Gardet (1863 - 1939) was born in Paris, France on October 11^th 1863. He was a highly talented sculptor whose early studies were with his sculptor father, Joseph, and Aime Millet. He was influenced early in his career by the works of Emmanuel Fremiet whom Gardet studied under at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts. Big game animals fascinated Gardet and his detailed treatment of these subjects is reflected in this interest. His fascination with animals was not limited to just the large wild ones as he did a number of small works of domestic animals and even a few private commissions of "pets" also. All of his animals are executed in an extremely powerful vein, each having an individual character of its own unlike many of the other sculptors of his day who were coldly producing static animals in bronze. His subjects are proud and romantic and this combined with his very high technical standard of detail and finish leaves a lasting visual effect. Occasional glimpses of the late Barye's influence are found in the treatment of his combat groups.

He started to exhibit at the Salon des Artistes Frances in 1883 at the age of twenty, and continued exhibiting throughout his long carrier, culminating in the Grand Prix at the 1900 Exposition Universelle. His monumental works include a Bison and Jaguar for the entrance of the Museum of Laval in 1892, Lions to ornament the stairways of the Alexandre III bridge on the Right Bank in 1900, as well as several monumental commissions for private Chateaux through France. Not all of his models were cast in bronze, many were originally carved in marble and a few were done in Onyx and only reproduced as bronze reductions for the most popular groups. Many of his works were produced in unglazed porcelain by the Sevres factory. He is considered by many as the finest animal sculptor of the late Animalier period.

Source: http://www.bronze-gallery.com/sculptors/artist.cfm?sculptorID=23

Manitou - Flooftail in motion

2010-07-21T23:15:00.001-04:00

In the Garden Today

2010-07-17T14:27:00.002-04:00

Luscious daylilies after the rain....I am beginning to collect many different cultivars - so many gorgeous types are available now...

The Heatwave, and a Confession

2010-07-11T11:38:00.003-04:00

So, I have to confess, I have tried not to warm up to Tristan. Chesney really, really didn't like him, and I have been harbouring - perhaps - some resentment that he somehow chased Chesney away. Only people with experiences with multi-cat households can fully understand how these things can play out,sometimes badly. In between my sorrow for my missing Ches - the horrible heatwave arrived. Extreme heat that didn't relent at night. And one evening just before bed, seeing Tristan lying on the floor looking like he was half expired, I picked him up and wrapped him in a cool damp towel, and held him in my arms for several minutes. In those few minutes I realized I loved little Tristan - already, and in spite of what my so-called rational brain was telling me.

And he has proved to be quite the little trickster. Needing some some work done on our chimney this week, a ladder was left against the house. So as I was getting ready for work this week, looking out the second story bathroom window, I heard some strange sounds and then - whose head do I see peeking up at me from the top of the ladder, but little Tristan's. What a sight that was!! Although he was "rescued", a part of me was tempted to see if he actually could make it back down on the ladder.

Indeed there were days this week that I seriously wished it would snow! I went to bed with a damp towel around my neck and a damp facecloth on my forehead. Sleeping was a misery - and I felt exhausted all the next day. Luckily I have AC at work, but getting there on public transit was horrible.

Like a Little Girl....

2010-06-25T12:52:00.003-04:00

But lately I see her ribbons and her bows
Have fallen from her curls [....]
[...] she aches just like a woman
But she breaks just like a little girl.
(Bob Dylan)

One Month...and on...

2010-06-22T12:12:00.006-04:00

The one-month date has come and gone, and Chesney is still gone/vanished. People around me try to console and say that he probably got picked up by someone who fell in love with him etc etc. I try not to dwell on the darker possibilities, but they are there, and always will be unless I find out for sure, and it doesn't look like I will. I wonder why fate would have sent me this gift, to console me for the sudden untimely loss of Timmy last fall, only to take Chesney the same way - suddenly? Cruel. A shadow has been cast over this spring and summer season.

But life goes on (*sigh* - I sometimes hate that silly, trite expression), and I have others than need my care and love. I also have an enormous garden, and lots to plant as I write, and some days it seems like a looming chore rather than a pleasure. But I love the cats and the plants too much to let any be ignored, so on I go.

This piece of salvage was intended for my various gardening pots and accessories, but as you can see, the fluffy ones, Manitou and Mr. Poole, think it really serves a much better purpose. In the third picture, Manitou seems to be thinking: "hmm, this place needs a paint job!" (Is anyone listening? IT DOES!!) Mr. Poole looks like he's thinking: "Hey, no one told me these were bunk-beds!"

Tristan reposes and recovers near the warmth of the brick border. He was recently diagnosed with an abscess on his back. Not the worst we have ever seen, but still nasty business: squeezing, draining etc...but he took it all very well indeed. Next to him is my latest purchase for the garden: a lovely garden wagon: it is very handy and attractive too!

Regular visitor, sometimes called "Mooch", Rascal relaxes on the cedar bench.

And last but not least, New solarium furniture! Here we see Angel and Longfellow obviously approving of the long-awaited purchase. The day the set arrived, Angel was the first to hop onto the the couch and sprawl at full length, so elegant her black against the vivid red. The old white wicker set had been with us since the house purchase in 1994, and was quite worn. It was not shabby chic anymore, just shabby!

Thank you to everyone who sent me their good thoughts for Chesney - I really, really appreciate it. Maybe we can keep it up for a little longer?

3 Weeks....

2010-06-14T10:23:00.003-04:00

Last night I dreamed my house fell into a shallow sink-hole (this actually happened to a family in Quebec - they were in the basement watching a hockey game, when the ground opened up and swallowed them: mother, father, and 2 children). My house was in ruins, and people were taking all my clothes. I was searching for my cats...and waking up, exhausted, as usual my first thought is that Chesney is still missing.

Am I waiting for him to return, or is this just the beginning of forever gone?

Two Weeks....

2010-06-07T10:38:00.001-04:00

....hope for Chesney is fading...

A Week: Heartbroken

2010-05-28T12:16:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I am stunned by the lunacy of this world and its inhabitants: in one image we see the dying and dead wildlife produced by the gulf oil hemorrhage (spill is NOT the word most people are using) and in another, the mad frenzy created by the release of the ipad. More and more everything seems disjoint - illogical - and incoherent. Amid all of this there is no good news. Chesney is gone, and I am heartbroken. I have always said that not knowing is the worst - not knowing where he is now, how is is - if he is...is he suffering...

But that is just a little gray cat in a world full of unending misery, pain and bigger tragedies. Just a little gray cat.

And as I can often do, I thoughtlessly blame those close to me for not caring as much, or not grieving as they should. But of course, what can they say? Life goes on. How timely, then, that the following quote appeared in today's local newspaper:

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares."

~ Henri J.M. Nouwen

Chesney is Missing

2010-05-25T22:08:00.002-04:00

Our Chesney has been missing since Saturday morning - anyone who has been through this knows how I feel. Please send prayers our way - a big storm is coming and I am out of my mind with worry he is hurt, hungry, thirsty....

Lilac-Time: Warble Me Now!

2010-05-21T12:45:00.007-04:00

Warble me now, for joy of Lilac-time,
Sort me, O tongue and lips, for Nature’s sake, and sweet life’s sake—and
death’s the same as life’s,
Souvenirs of earliest summer—birds’ eggs, and the first berries;
Gather the welcome signs, (as children, with pebbles, or stringing shells;)
Put in April and May—the hylas croaking in the ponds—the elastic air,
Bees, butterflies, the sparrow with its simple notes,
Blue-bird, and darting swallow—nor forget the high-hole flashing his golden wings,
The tranquil sunny haze, the clinging smoke, the vapor,
Spiritual, airy insects, humming on gossamer wings,
Shimmer of waters, with fish in them—the cerulean above;
All that is jocund and sparkling—the brooks running,
The maple woods, the crisp February days, and the sugar-making;
The robin, where he hops, bright-eyed, brown-breasted,
With musical clear call at sunrise, and again at sunset,
Or flitting among the trees of the apple-orchard, building the nest of his mate;
The melted snow of March—the willow sending forth its yellow-green sprouts;
—For spring-time is here! the summer is here! and what is this in it and from it?
Thou, Soul, unloosen’d—the restlessness after I know not what;
Come! let us lag here no longer—let us be up and away!
O for another world! O if one could but fly like a bird!
O to escape—to sail forth, as in a ship!
To glide with thee, O Soul, o’er all, in all, as a ship o’er the waters!
—Gathering these hints, these preludes—the blue sky, the grass, the morning
drops of dew;
(With additional songs—every spring will I now strike up additional songs,
Nor ever again forget, these tender days, the chants of Death as well as Life;)
The lilac-scent, the bushes, and the dark green, heart-shaped leaves,
Wood violets, the little delicate pale blossoms called innocence,
Samples and sorts not for themselves alone, but for their atmosphere,
To tally, drench’d with them, tested by them,
Cities and artificial life, and all their sights and scenes,
My mind henceforth, and all its meditations—my recitatives,
My land, my age, my race, for once to serve in songs,
(Sprouts, tokens ever of death indeed the same as life,)
To grace the bush I love—to sing with the birds,
A warble for joy of Lilac-time.

- Walt Whitman's "Warble for Lilac-Time"

************************************
On my way to work, I came across a small bouquet of lilac at the bottom of a neighbor's lilac bush. Someone picked them, then carelessly tossed them aside. What a shame, to make it through winter and frost, just to be picked and thrown away. I pulled a plastic bag out of my briefcase and took them to work, gave them a drink and now they are sitting on my desk - the sweet scent of lilac filling my office.

Giant Plumes of Oil Found Under Gulf of Mexico - NYTimes.com

2010-05-15T21:30:00.003-04:00

Giant Plumes of Oil Found Under Gulf of Mexico - NYTimes.com

As we recall Jim Morrison’s "prophecy":

“What have we done to the Earth?
What have we done to our fair sister?
Ravaged and plundered and ripped her and bit her,
stuck her with knives in the side of the dawn,
and tied her with fences and dragged her down.”

As much as I fear "the end", my end, I am glad I will not be around when it really gets bad....

Sleeping Cutie

2010-05-07T12:48:00.004-04:00

Well, not too much to report other than to say Mr. Poole is still on poor little Tristan's case. And Tristan doesn't help matters by being extremely loud when accosted. I am glad it is not winter, as that would certainly make matters worse, everyone all cooped up inside. With the good weather, the culprits can simply be booted outside to calm down - gently of course :)

Pansies - I just love them, and hope to have lots more for next year.

Monsella tulips - one of my favorites, very sturdy and very colorful as you can see.

A Day at aTime

2010-04-27T13:41:00.007-04:00

Just a little babe in the woods.

Oh boy. We've been having some hairy times around here lately - to say the least. Crazy cat lady indeed - barking, as the Brits say. Little innocent Tristan just wants to rest and be left alone, but Mr. Poole in particular is showing some rather nasty behavior. Tris can be very loud just when he's about to be fed, but when ambushed or cornered, good grief - what a wail is unleashed!! I know that white cats can sometimes be deaf, and while I know for sure he is not deaf, I am wondering if he may be hard of hearing, hence the loudness. Anyway, Mr.P shadows him everywhere - almost likes he's hunting him - kind of creepy to see. Manitou however, is quite relieved as he doesn't seem to be the center of Mr. P's focus quite so much anymore. So - we are hoping "this too shall pass." It's just rather stressful right now.

* * * * * * * * * *

OK, the above was written in a draft about a week ago. And already, we have seen a few but welcome signs of "adaptation". Chesney doesn't freak out quite so much when he comes across Tristan, and Mr.Poole's behaviour has become a little less disturbing, but rather more curious (is he hunting him, or watching over him?). Over the weekend I observed more than one instance where Mr. Poole slowly tried to creep up on an unsuspecting Tristan, only to be thoroughly disappointed when Tristan turned to see him, and as if to say, "oh -it's only you", continued his nap, his grass-munching, or whatever he was engaged with prior to the "attack". Each time, Mr. Poole seemed most disappointed that his seemingly well-crafted attempt to spook the new guy failed yet again. Amazingly, each time he then chose to simply lie down near him. Hmm. An even more surprising discovery was made just 2 nights ago: Tristan on the spare bed fast asleep, with Mr. Poole equally deep in slumber less than a foot away. Hmm again. Much later, sometime in the middle of the night, a couple of signature Tristan wails came from spare room, but as I listened with trepidation, nothing further was heard, and all was quiet and peaceful again. We take it a day at a time - grateful for the smallest of signs of improvement.

I suppose at this point, some credit must be given to the resident "cat-wrangler". Yes, I am the cat-whisperer, but she can be a little hesitant to be tough where tough-love is called for. Some might even call her a wimp. But with the special talents of both in the house, order, peace and harmony is usually in good balance and the feline residents know who is really the boss (shhh, don't tell the cat-wrangler!) ;) Here is the cat-wrangler hard at work, picture taken a few years ago and porch looking surprisingly tidy:

Doesn't he just need a straw to chew on? "Why yes'm, I's the Qu'aboodle Ranch (Townships Branch) cat-wrangler - every good home needs one - got some cats that need wranglin', and I'm yer man - straighten' 'em out in no time. Just pay me with a mint julep or two - and not the sissy kind either."

And in others news, of sorts, the weather lately has been lovely, very spring-like, just how I like it. But now, a snowfall warning has been issued! Tulips, daffodils and pansies are shivering at the news. It's been sandals and bare legs lately, but very begrudgingly, I had to wear something warmer this morning and most likely will have to the rest of the week.

"I Don't Wanna Talk About It!"

2010-04-16T12:30:00.004-04:00

Well, little Tristan had a big day yesterday, and yet he took it very well indeed. But as you can see in the first picture, he really doesn't want to talk about it. Mr. Poole went up to him briefly, and after a quick sniff he left him alone, as if to say, "yeah, I know where ya been - trust me - you'll get over it."

And as though he heard the big guy's reassurance, Tristan then fell into an even sounder sleep.

New Sign at My House

2010-04-14T12:03:00.003-04:00

Click on to enlarge.

Sad Little White One

2010-04-12T12:15:00.003-04:00

It seems on any given day lately, I come home from work to find a bunch of cats in my garden - none of them mine! Happily, most seem to have homes (collars), and are simply enjoying the spring delights over at Maple Grove Gardens and maybe the odd snack or two. But this little guy has recently shown up and obviously has no home. He is ravenous, unfixed, and when he sleeps, does so very deeply - to the point I wonder if he is not well. The worst is that none of my gang seem to like him. Especially Chesney, who came to us to a fully-formed "family" - and this guy is an interloper, a stranger, and he is told so with a variety of growls and other none-too-subtle warning signs. Very unlike Chesney who is so easy-going and usually such a sweetie. *Sigh*. What to do? We have named him Tristan, as in "triste" meaning sad in french.

He is totally white, a white which could be whiter for sure, and as for the ever so slightly grey tail, we are not sure if it is simply dirty. Poor little sad guy.

Good Friday - Indeed

2010-04-02T18:27:00.003-04:00

A very good Friday today: very VERY warm weather - instant summer. 26 degrees. The cats, visitors and all, are reveling in this gift, one which will apparently last for 2 more days at least. The solarium, locked up for winter was opened up, storm windows taken down, a quick dusting, and voila! - the best little bistro in town - overlooking my awakening garden:

Rose wine (pronounced "rosay" but I can't find the accent) and Rosalie amaryllis graced the brunch table with some hot-cross buns and a wonderful new discovery, spreadable Brie cheese. Fabulous!

Rosalie up close - she shimmers in the sun as though she has been dusted with gold.

Yeah - the empty glass is mine ;)

And last but not least, new dahlias bought yesterday at the local co-op.

A Happy Easter to all, and to all a Na zdrowie!

Visitors

2010-03-26T13:04:00.003-04:00

"Care to share?" - asks a tentative Rascal of Manitou, whom we are still trying to figure out if he is really homeless or not. But he comes most days, twice a day, for snacks.

"Watcha got???" Hearing that snacks are being handed out - this little guy came by to see if it's really true. Here's hoping he has a loving home - what a cutie, huh?

As always, there's more to see at The Friday Ark and then Carnival of the Cats on Sunday.

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-03-12T12:12:00.003-05:00

The last week or so has been unseasonably warm, and most are already wearing spring coats, and as for boots, forget it! I refuse to put them back on this season! Here, Angel is stretching out in the sun, and despite the obvious snow in the background, everyone seems confident all traces of it will be gone soon.

A neighbour's cat also seems to be enjoying the warm rays, although that is not his owners vehicle - I took this picture as evidence in case any of mine were to be accused of leaving the tell-tale paw-prints!

And also at this time of the year, with the changing position of the sun through the living room window, the Amaryllis shine more brilliantly than ever.

As always, there's more to see at The Friday Ark and then Carnival of the Cats on Sunday.

In Memoriam

2010-03-05T14:26:00.004-05:00

Today is my mother's birthday - she was born in 1921 in Poland. She passed away in 2004. I so love this photograph - maybe for what it doesn't tell me: where was this taken? How old was she? Was it taken before or after the war broke out? I suspect before. What was in her thoughts at this particular moment in time?

I have been reading a lot about the war lately - too much perhaps. I feel guilt for not having listened very much to my father's stories - and now he too is gone. But Mum never spoke that much about it all - and I can only wonder now what horrors she must have lived through, as I read first-hand accounts and memoirs - all on the internet now - all there as evidence - as memory - as memorial. And as an archivist by profession, I fully know how incredibly important it is for all these people to have recorded and shared their stories, however difficult it must have been.

I look at my face in the mirror and wonder how I would have fared in such circumstances: the fear, above all, must have been overwhelming. But, as they say, one never knows the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Thousands of courageous, and even kind acts were performed in those dark days - days full of seemingly endless misery and suffering. In face of such unimaginable evil - people carried on - and fought - and lost their lives. But many, by some miracle, survived to tell their stories.

And I, sitting at the dinner table on any given Sunday, hearing, but not listening, to Dad go on and on - I never let it in - until now. I would hope that somehow my father understands and forgives me.

Spot the Kitty!

2010-02-18T16:38:00.004-05:00

No, I don't have a new cat called Spot. It's for you to see if you can spot the kitty in this picture, while you (ahem) excuse the bit of a mess. Yes indeed we were about to tidy up when the picture was taken. But how can you disturb a kitty!?

As always, there's more to see at The Friday Ark and then Carnival of the Cats on Sunday.

Valentine by Anya

2010-02-13T21:53:00.001-05:00

Chesney

2010-02-05T12:08:00.006-05:00

In these shots, you can see the rings around his neck and tail that indicate a definite tabby "influence".

Chesney (who for a month was called Chelsea until we were informed otherwise (!) - the little guy that appeared lost and alone on Labour Day, has turned out to be a little sweetheart. Although quite independent as well, he loves to snuggle on my lap (on the rare time that it is actually unoccupied!), and in the basket close to my armchair where I watch television.
But perhaps the most endearing this he does occurs at bedtime. He will often come on the bed, approach from behind my head on the pillow, and tuck his front paws down under the covers and onto my (usually very warm) arm. As I feel his cold little pads on my skin, I briefly feel sad that he was abandoned, and without claws to defend himself. But, I try to focus on, and thank, whatever invisible hand lead him to my porch.

He and Chaiyka, both very young, are often a tireless, tumbling twosome! When cavorting upstairs in the bedroom which is situated above the living room where we watch TV, it sounds like a couple of elephants frolicking overhead. They are so much fun to watch, and I would dearly love to have a photo of them in action, but they're just too fast to catch!

More frolicking and other activities can be seen atThe Friday Ark and then Carnival of the Cats on Sunday.

Happy Australia Day

2010-01-26T13:46:00.006-05:00

It's Australia Day! Greetings to my 2 blog visitors from down under - MmeBenaut and Kas. I have this postcard hanging in my office all the time, and each afternoon I listen to ABC's breakfast programme with Emma Ayres - I just love it! In celebration, I'll have some Wallaroo Trail wine tonight :)

Gone But Not Forgotten

2010-01-22T12:18:00.008-05:00

Last September at the time of Tiny Tim's passing, I mentioned a song called "Three Babies" by Sinead O'Connor. "The face on you, the smell of you, will always be with me..." Let me to explain. Back in the mid-80’s we rescued a pregnant black cat that would result in a litter of 4 kittens. The mother had extreme "issues" with the queen of the household Mishka, a fiery and quixotic tortoiseshell, so once the kittens were old enough to be parted from mum, mum was given to another home. I had never had a kitten experience before – I saw them only hours old, and watched them grow and play, and of course fell totally in love with them – and we kept them - all. In a photo of the time (bottom picture), Mishka can be seen actually sleeping with the kittens (“jeez, I must have had these during one of my blackouts!”) The look on her face is priceless.

But looking back, this litter was cursed/doomed:
Popeye, a gorgeous tabby, was the first to die a tragic sudden death, and it was on that occasion I played the song "Three Babies" – referring to the three that were left. I played it over and over again like a dirge. So many tears.

Paboo was next to leave us soon after – he was soft and black and very beautiful – and one day he just vanished. That is the worst, I think – not knowing what has happened. Despite the pain of a sudden death or imminent death from disease, not knowing is agony.

Bijou, a tiny elegant tabby, was endlessly persecuted and hunted by the queen Mishka. This is no exaggeration, and it was sad and disturbing to watch her cower in corners as Mishka stalked her like prey. We were powerless to stop it, no matter how we tried. And so one day Bijou just left. I suppose she simply couldn’t tolerate the relentless assaults anymore. But, after three weeks, she reappeared at our backdoor – looking quite well and not starving at all. She had come for my birthday and she stayed for around 24 hours before leaving, never to be seen again. Perhaps she came back to say goodbye – a final goodbye. I would like to think she found a peaceful forever home, where she was the only one – but of course I’ll never know.

And that left our Sammy, who outlived them all. Sammy was a large black cat, but also a bit of a timid fellow. He was the only one that lived long enough to see us all move into a house with a very large garden, just across the street. The poor fellow didn’t know how to handle a staircase in the new place – it took him a whole month to figure it out, but boy was he proud when he finally did - a feat accomplished on his birthday no less! Sadly, within 7-8 years he succumbed to an awful condition called megacolon.

Our Sam (sorry for repeat pic from Christmas).

(Sigh).

But Sammy was never alone with Mishka. Throughout all this, there were others that came into our lives: suddenly, sometimes gradually, but always mysteriously. And they would leave again, usually due to illness, but for now, I will remember them without that final cloud - remember them for their unique and special ways:

Sheena, a gorgeous gentle grey (seeing this picture after so long, I was stunned just how much like Timmy she looked) – we often thought Timmy was a reincarnation as both of these grey cats were very difficult to “capture” – they both were very scared of humans and it was a real campaign to win their trust. Sheena was my little "Honey-Bunches"....

Buster, a solid spotted tabby, the refined “lodger”, Bustopher Jones (“not too close, PLEASE!”) – he used to run when he’d see me coming, and I’m sure when he sees me at The Rainbow Bridge, he’ll groan, “oh no, it’s HER – she’ll want to pick me up and do all that other stuff - ugh! - maybe I’ll say hello later…” . And he'll wander off in his inimitable elegant manner....

Smudge, the precocious wide-eyed grey and white prankster – I’ll never forget the time he edged a ceramic bowl of peppermints off a high shelf (while I was watching and saying “don’t you dare!”), and as he watched the dish smash and the mints roll and scatter across the floor, the look on his face was sheer delight, as if he was saying: “wow, cool – did you see that?” How could I be angry?? Or the time he lost his footing off the second floor railing, landed unharmed at the bottom, then looked up at me as if to say “ hey, that was fun, can I try it again?” What a Smudgeroo he was! Chaiyka has much of that same spirit in him....

Mitzi – petite, black and fluffy, she must have had some bad times before she came to us - as handling her was always a tricky affair due to her sudden and inexplicable bouts of aggression, indeed she seemed half-wild at times. Poor little Skitzi-Mitzi…but I like to remember her at the peak of health, running at top speed diagonally across the huge lawn at the new house...

PeeBee (aka Schnagglepuss) and Smudge.....

Buster and Smudge - very often together. Who knows, maybe they were brothers...

Buster and Smudge - in blissful sleep...

All these precious ones are what I consider “pre-blog”, and I do not mean to exclude Pumpkin, PeeBee (aka Schagglepuss), and of course Mishka, who have all been featured on Cat Whisperer, and who are no longer with us.

Enter – exit…always too soon. They are never with us long enough.

********************************************************

There is more to see and read over at The Friday Ark and then Carnival of the Cats on Sunday.

Winter Visitors

2010-01-08T12:24:00.005-05:00

This is not Chaiyka!

Over the past couple of months or so, we have been visited by a very sweet fellow we have dubbed “Chauncey” – (as in “Chauncey Gardener” – he likes “being here” – as opposed to "Being There" - wink wink). Chaiyka has been bringing him over for snacks and a quick warm-up, and we have therefore suspected he lives nearby. As you can see here, he spent some time visiting over the holidays, and was mainly interested in watching the others and having a little nap here and there (so many places to chose from!).

But Wednesday morning as I was heading out to work, he was huddled on our porch, on a few old pillows we have available to whoever may need them, looking very cold indeed. This was very unusual for this time of day.

Note the Great Manitou of the Townships of the East standing guard!.

When I came home from work, I was told by the resident cat wrangler that Chauncey had spent the whole day inside our house! He tried to shoo him out a couple times, but didn’t seem to have any interest in going back outdoors, and who could blame him! As we were discussing what to do, the door-bell rang, and opening the door we saw a somewhat distraught looking young girl, with boyfriend in tow, clutching a bag of kitty treats (we all know that shaking a bag of those often produces positive results when searching for a cat). As we are pretty much known in the neighborhood for having a few felines (yes, a few – less than a dozen, ok ;), it was logical to check at our place for their missing kitty! Oh my goodness, what a wave of relief came upon her face when we informed her he was indeed inside. Alas, we could not produce him instantly to give to them as he was “hiding” in the basement, and so we took their phone number and promised to call upon Chauncey’s reappearance. Sure enough, up he eventually came, probably lured by the smell of kitty dinnertime, and before long, Chauncey, whose real name is Noomi, was lovingly and happily reunited with his Mom. Apparently it had been quite an ordeal for all concerned, as he had been outside all the previous night, hence his rather desperate demeanor on our porch that morning. We are surmising that perhaps the large snowfall caused him to lose his bearings, and our house was the first familiar looking place and he decided to stay put. Poor little guy – cold and hungry – how could we not let him in! As Laura in Alaska says, and I paraphrase, when someone comes to your door in the cold of winter, you let them in.

A funny thing though, when Noomi’s Mom came to collect him, she spotted Chaiyka and told us that HE has been at HER house for snacks! Luckily, her place is just a short jaunt across to the back of the garden and around the fence, which in winter of course becomes a bit more tricky to navigate. Some crazy cat people have been known to shovel little kitty paths around the yard, so the little darlings can romp around a bit in the dreary winter months when it’s not too dreadfully cold. As if we don’t have enough to shovel for the human traffic!!

And then there’s Rascal. We still don’t know what his status is. He appeared several times over the holidays very VERY hungry, but still furtive. We think he may have some sort of a home, but probably not a very good one. The kind that whether the cat is in or out is of no concern. Certainly not the type of owners that shovel kitty paths! Here he is visiting the inside of our house for the very first time – but he really didn’t seem to want to stay. Gee, I wonder if Mr. Poole’s steady glare might have had something to do with his urge to vacate the premises! The picture below is a bit dark, but if you look closely, you can see he is climbing the drapes as if to say “Let me outta here!!!!”

(Please excuse messy kitchen!)

It’s Friday, so take a look at what else is going on over at The Friday Ark.

Reflections on the Holiday

2010-01-02T16:56:00.004-05:00

Things bright and beautiful...

Exhausted from all the activity....Manitou does his famous Snoopy imitation...

Chaiyka searches for just the right magazine....

Some preferred to sunbathe....

There was boxing day, always lots of fun....

"Whadya get???!" Asks Manitou.

Above all, there was lots of lounging...

Snoozing...

And still more snoozing...

At home by the tree,

While the snow deepened outside...

.

Yes indeed, a good and restful time was had by all.
Welcome 2010, and best wishes to all who continue to touch and bless my life in various ways.

2009-12-31T18:42:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to all!
Health and Happiness above all!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T18:00:00.002-05:00

I love this photo - it is me and Sammy, who passed away several years ago. I look happy - a time before life/death and other issues came along. A Happy Holiday to all, and may we always try to remember to count our current blessings, big and small.It is so important, and yet so easy to forget.

Last Day of Work for 2009

2009-12-23T13:10:00.004-05:00

And here is where I am - my festive little tree twinkling in my little library. I am alone - Christmas music is playing, and a few Christmas treats are nearby, thanks to some very generous co-workers and friends. A few more hours, and it will "home for the holidays" - my home. For now though, it's time to focus on clearing up my desk!

This is the view from the hallway window - the windows in my office are too high and opaque to allow for a view.