9 Kai and Chani Hokulani

Sheamus Popoki vs. his Tail

2012-02-01T09:30:00.000-08:00

Have at you! I shall catch you one day, oh Tail o' Mine!

Chani loves laundry

2012-01-31T14:45:00.000-08:00

Why yes, I am quite comfortable here. What do you mean you do not want fur on your freshly laundered clothing? I see no clothing, just a comfy pile of warm...

Settling in with 9, Chani and Sheamus Popoki

2012-01-24T14:11:00.000-08:00

Sheamus Popoki looooves being with his older brofur. They're still trying to figure out who is the alpha kitty. For the most part, it is 9. 9 has returned to normal. He is greeting me at the door when I come home. AND he always gets his dinner first.

He's working on his sisfur. Chani accepts the Orange Interloper as long as he respects her authority which he does.

And I have to say, I had to reinstall the iPad app for cats. Of all 3 cats Sheamus is the only one who walks across the iPad screen and will engage with it.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Sheamus visits Dr. Saito

2012-01-17T11:18:00.000-08:00

Today, I had to go visit Dr. Saito. Mom wanted to get me checked out and to get my rabies vaccination. I was a good, calm boy in the carrier.

I really didn't want to come out. But Mom made me.

Dr. Saito was nice and calm as she poked and prodded me. She weighed me at 8.4 lbs. I also was very calm (i.e. not wiggly) when I got my temperature taken. After my exam, Dr. Saito pronounced me to be in good health. Then, she gave me a shot. I didn't not squeak or squirm or anything. Mom made sure to cuddle me and give me lots of praise during the exam.

Now, I am back at home with my family. It's turned cold here, so all of us kitties decided we had to be near Mom. As you can see, my siblings took over her lap. They haven't done that in a long time. Mom said she needs more lap for them.

Monday mews...

2012-01-16T19:14:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, 9 here. Please bear with Mom's puns... they're pretty bad sometimes.

Well, all the time.

I would like to tell you all that I am giving Mom those beautiful looks again. My eyes are almost back to normal. I do greet Mom at the door again and mewing at her for my food. I reach up and act cute and I'm almost back to my normal self. Thank you all for the good advice in the previous post. It made Mom feel better. And I know that since I've been spending a lot of time sitting on her and purring, I'm making sure Mom is feeling better too.

However, I just have to say that that little brofur of mine is seriously annoying. He is always attacking me and nipping my backside. What is a mancat to do but to smack that Orange Interloper upside the head a few times? Still, Mom is taking my side and telling me to show off that I am the Alpha cat here. I would prefer if he would just realize it on his own like Chani knows. Seriously...

Hello, blogging friends, Chani here. Well, what can I say? I have always let 9 think that he is the Alpha cat, but we all know that I'm the Pretty Princess of this household. Believe me, I have no problems smacking around the Orange Interloper and hissing at him. Honestly, it is quite the job keeping the boys in line. But, I am having fun playing THoE with Sheamus Popoki. He's pretty fun to nose touch. And he has the funniest surprised look on his face everytime I thwap him. Hehe...

Sheamus, it's your turn to say something now... Um...

Please excuse Sheamus Popoki, he is quite tuckered out... oh well

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that Sheamus Popoki is comfortable and confident enough to sleep on his back exposing his fluffy belly.

I am also thankful that he and 9 are getting along quite well. This past weekend, while 9 was being all mopey and such, I got very worried that he was upset that I brought Sheamus Popoki into our household. The dynamic between all 9 and Chani has changed a bit with Sheamus getting a bit more attention from 9 than Chani. However, Chani is taking it all in stride. She's even begun to play with Sheamus a bit. Though, she does hiss at him and take out her irritability on him. He's pretty oblivious to her moods.

9 on the other hand is a bit different. Although he still greets me at the door, he doesn't have the same look in his eyes. I'm not sure how to describe it. I am constantly reminding him that he is my #1 boy and such, but he does seem like he is getting down a bit. I hope when he feels better that he'll go back to playing with Sheamus like he was and giving me those lovely eyes. I still feel guilty though.

Then again, when they take over my bed like this, or when they do hang out together and I hear the stereo purrs, I feel a lot less guilty.

P.S. the together photos were taken before 9 hurt his hips. I'm waiting for them to be like this again.

Whiskers on a Wednesday

2012-01-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

9 whiskers

Chani whiskers... more like Chani nose

Photos taken with my iPhone. Goodness, I love this phone!

Tuesday Tidings

2012-01-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

Greetings friends. This past Saturday was a bit stressful for me. I wasn't feeling too well Friday night. I didn't eat my dinner and I didn't sleep with Mom, Chani and Sheamus. The next morning, Mom found me in the guest room just sort of hanging out on the couch. She called me for breakfast and I slowly walked to my food. When she poured my food, I looked at the dish, looked at her and then walked away. She, of course, got worried and decided to take me to the VET. Sigh...

I was a good boy on the trip there. I just made sure to mew quietly and give Mom my most pathetic looks and rub against her fingers that she stuck in the cage.

Well, long story short, I'm in good health. Dr. Saito found me to be a bit sensitive in my hip areas, but everything else seemed fine. So, I got an anti-inflammatory shot and was sent home with strict orders not to jump too much at all. I'm obeying those orders for the most part. I'm also still giving Mom my sad and pathetic look too hehe... OH! AND after my visit to the VET, I went to Grandpa and Grandma's house and got tuna! ALL TO MYSELF! Talk about lucking out! Well, I deserved it because I had to go get checked up and I was a very good boy though I sure did wiggle when Dr. Saito tried taking my temperature.

One more thing, I am eating well again. So, Mom isn't as worried as she was this weekend. Yay!

Happy New Year 2012!

2011-12-31T22:53:00.000-08:00

Keeping with the tradition started last year, I present to you my New Year's drawing. Since 2012 is the Year of the Dragon, 9, Chani and Sheamus Popoki are wearing dragon costumes. No, I haven't found any actual dragon costumes, maybe next Halloween? Hehe...

2011 was a good year for our little family. Our pipes in the condo were re-done. We now have a water softener. Mom's pottery business was more successful than she thought it would be. She also started up a Zazzle shop to sell some prints of her 2d work. After a mad bout of cleaning and purging, the guest room is a lot cleaner and better organized than before. Yes, we can have guests be comfortable there! AND Mom cleaned out her bedroom closet, so there are some empty shelves that we can climb up on. She really does think of us all the time, doesn't she?

2011 also brought our little brofur. He's fitting in well with us and can really endear himself to Mom with his cuddles and purrs.

We hope you have enjoyed our adventures this year. Mom might promise to be better about posting (we will do our best to gently encourage her to post more often!), but her real 2012 resolution is to clean our litter boxes more often. We have been letting her get away with being lax on this, but no more!

Happy New Year, everyone! We look forward to what adventures we will have and all your adventures too!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:46:00.000-08:00

We wish you all a Merry Christmas! Chani is dreaming of treats, tuna, warmth and when Mom comes home again.

And doing her best to block out the trouble the boys are getting into.

Happy Christmas everyone!

The 5th nominee!

2011-12-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

On this day before Christmas, we would like to give Angel and Kirby of A Wizard and an Angel blog the award. I knew that there was one more lovely blog we needed to nominate!

Love you all,
9, Chani and Sheamus Popoki

Thank you for the award!

2011-12-23T11:57:00.000-08:00

Our friends, Scarlett and Melly, gave us the Liebster Blog award. We are thrilled! Thank you :D

Here are the 'rules' for this lovely award:

Upon receipt of the award, one is to:
1) Link back to the blogger who gave it
2) Paste the award on the blog
3) Choose 5 blogs to pass this award to (they must have fewer than 200 followers)
4) Let the recipients know about their nomination by leaving a comment on their blogs

Now, we must admit, Mom has been seriously slacking in the reading of other people's blogs awards. She has been busy which we can attest to since she's been sick and coming home much later than she usually does.

But, here we go in who we think should be awarded:

1) Luna and Luzie
2) Purrfect Haven
3) The Adventure of Space Paws
4) Kittitas

Now, we know there is one more we can award to, but since Mom is leaving for Southern California shortly, she will have to just nominate four for now. Hopefully, she will nominate more from there!

Oh, and we are not going to the Kitty Hotel this time. Mom is having a friend come and visit us while she is off having fun.

We promise not to get into too much trouble while she is gone hehe...

purrs,
9, Chani and Sheamus Popoki

Manly Monday

2011-12-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

Soulful, handsome 9

Handsome Sheamus Popoki

Very good looking, not sure how manly tee hee.

Run free across the Bridge, Lucky

2011-12-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

We are sad to let you know that our Southern California friend, Lucky, recently crossed the Rainbow Bridge. He was a lovely woofie who took care of his fellow woofie buddy, Scruffy, and his cat buddy, Fluffy.

Lucky lived a long life but in the end the dreaded cancer got to him.

We will miss you, Lucky! Run free and say 'hello' to Q who came before, please. Until we meet again.

Toesie Tuesday

2011-12-13T12:05:00.000-08:00

Chani Toes

Sheamus Popoki Toes

9 toes

Bravery, SPAM is thy name

2011-12-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

The other day, Fizzgig, Obie and Pica's mom came over with Pica. 9 did his best to scare off the 'scary' little woofie by getting big and hissy. Chani held the title of bravest for a little while because although she puffed out a bit, she didn't run too far away and later she actually kept a close eye on Pica.

BUT, dear SPAM-chan, my little boy who is the king of hiding in plain sight was the bravest of the three. He even tried to do a nose touch with Pica. And Pica, good girl that she is, allowed it.

Such a brave boy!

And he even did a nose kiss with Chani, who is getting much more tolerant of this little boy despite the fact he still goes up on her tower. Still, at least he knows that when he is fed, he goes up the green tower and not HER tower. Mishka, we're not sure how to help you out with your situation. We're sorry!

Then, SPAM-chan slept under the kotatsu with his big brother. They were even touching!

Actually, 9 has been very good with Sheamus Popoki. They haven't played much at all. But 9 did smack Sheamus Popoki in the head once, realized what he had done might not be acceptable and then ran off. Chani allows nose kisses but no charging at her.

Still, it's lovely to see my orange interloper gaining confidence and coming to greet me with the other two when I come home. He's not fully greeting me with purrs and stretches like 9, but at least he comes out from where he was hiding or sleeping.

ZAAIOOOOOOOOOOOOL

2011-12-07T10:37:00.000-08:00

That title is courtesy of Spam-chan. Yes, he is taking 'naughty' lessons from his big brofur 9.

Originally, I was going to label this post, portraits on a Wednesday. Oh well.

9 posing as Mr. Handsome and Sensitive.

Chani posing as Miss Grumpy Pants keeping an eye on the Orange Interloper

Sheamus Popoki posing as Master Cutie Patootie attempting to avoid his sisfur's watchful gaze.

And here is photographic proof that 9 and Chani did get some tuna the night Spam-chan arrived in our humble abode.

Tockstober in December - about time!

2011-12-06T10:34:00.001-08:00

9 Tocks

9 Tocks again

Chani Tocks

Spam Tocks

SPAM - chilling

2011-12-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

Sheamus Popoki: I don't know what the fuss is, I'm just hanging out here on the bed with everyone. I kind of like this purr purr purr...

I must say, this little boy has quite the engine. All 3 of my kitties do. It's quite lovely to hear them, though I have yet to hear them in unison. If I did, I doubt I'd be able to hear anything or even sleep.

Sigh... what a slice of heaven it is :D

Grumpy Chani

2011-12-01T11:41:00.001-08:00

After viewing Scarlett's grumpy face, I just had to add this photo

What you don't see is 9 sleeping comfortably between my legs and Sheamus Popoki sleeping on my other side. I was propped up rather uncomfortably against some pillows and my head was leaning on the corner of the headboard. Still, it was a bit heavenly having all 3 cats in bed with me.

For the most part, there is peace at Chez Marlene's. 9 and Chani have accepted their new little brother and Sheamus Popoki is kind of oblivious to the disruption he has caused by living here. Chani does still snuggle with me, but has a hard time relaxing when she hears little SPAM-chan play. I think she remember when she was a tiny kitten and picked on by the other kitties her foster mom was fostering.

At any rate... oh, Chani has something to say here:

That orange interloper ate from MY food dish on MY tower. And you expected me to actually eat from the same dish he had eaten from! How dare you??? Yes, you bet I refused to eat until you gave me a new dish to eat my dinner from. Harumph...

Though, I do have to say, I will deign to allow him to share under the kotatsu with me and I won't hiss at him when he walks by. I'll even sniff him. BUT no eating from MY dish in MY tower! It's bad enough that he sleeps in my tower when I'm not there.

Mom, will you please train him that the green tower is his???

Ok, that's what Chani had to say. And yes, I will do my best to train Sheamus Popoki to go to his tower. He's kind of... well, laid back and does his own thing. So his personality is great for joining our little family.

The Debut of Sheamus Popoki Aloysius Mango

2011-11-28T14:51:00.001-08:00

Greetings and salutations everyone! I'm Sheamus Popoki or SPAM as my new grandpa calls me.
I'm arrived in my new home last week and am settling in pretty well. I was a bit of a scaredy cat when I first arrived, hiding in the closet in a corner where Mom couldn't see me but 9 and Chani could. They stared at my location and Mom was able to get me out of my hiding spot. But now, I'm out and about and enjoying the front room. I've even begun to greet Mom in the morning when she wakes up, though, I'm not sleeping with her and my siblings yet...

After some initial hissing from my new brofur and sisfur, things have settled down. Oh, I made sure to growl and hiss at 9 to show that I'm not afraid, but so far, we're getting along well. Though, 9 tends to swat at my tail. I think he thinks my tail is a giant feather. Chani didn't like sharing the area under the kotatsu in the beginning, but last night we were just fine. Oh, and Mom managed to cuddle with me and Chani and then with me and 9 without any growling or hissing for any of us! To tell the truth, I think 9 and Chani were more annoyed with Mom than they were about being next to me.

Now, I do hide behind the futon couch a lot and Mom has to drag me out. But, when I do come out on my own, I make sure to purr and rub against her. She says I have the softest fur and paws ever.

In case you've forgotten, this is what I looked like back when Mom first met me. I know I tried to tempt her, but she resisted. So I had to be patient.

I made sure to use the big eyes on her. I'm not sure how she withstood my charm back then. I mean, look at me! And my cute little paws!

And I tried to use my belly, but I didn't have any discernible belly spots back then, so Mom resisted.

Now that my glorious coat has grown in fully, I have some belly spots. In some pictures, it looks like my spots are just shadows, but when my fur is all nicely arranged, I gots belly spots. Mom cannot resist me anymore!

I'm very happy to be here and in my new furever home. Mom will have to update the banner, though she won't change the name of the blog.

Oh! I'm supposed to say something like:

Douzo Yoroushiku Onegaishimasu!

Glad to meet everyone here on the internet!

Wordy Wednesday

2011-11-23T18:53:00.001-08:00

Sheamus Popoki Aloysius Mango is now in our guest room. The kitties are dealing with it pretty well. A few hisses, a few nose touches. Chani only had an issue when Sheamus went under the kotatsu. She is not very good at sharing teehee.Other than that, he is not eating much and he is hiding under the stands in the closet. The guest room door is open though. Hopefully, he will come out soon.9 and Chani are doing well with the new addition. Fingers crossed that grooming and snuggling will eventually follow.Well, hopefully, Sheamus Popoki will venture out of the guest room on his own.Oh! 9 and Chani did get tuna last night. So did Sheamus.And I finally found Chani's Halloween dress. It was in the crawlspace between my headboard and my bed. I have no idea how it got there!

Foster Kitten update

2011-11-21T12:21:00.001-08:00

9: Oh dear. Oh dear. We have some good news and some distressing news to relate here... Well, not really distressing, but...

Chani: 9! Just tell them!

9: Sigh... ok. Well, the good news is that Inky was adopted. Hooray!!!

Chani: Yes, that is good news... purr purr

9:Now, Mom is sad that Mango did not get adopted, but she is in love with him and has been unsuccessful in convincing Grandpa to adopt him! Grandma seems keen on the idea, but not Grandpa.

Chani: Oh, that is distressing.

9: No! That is not the distressing part! Mom wants to adopt Mango! She's thinking of bringing him here and and fostering him with us for a while to see if we will all get along!

Chani: What??? Inconceivable!

9: Will Mom still love us the same? Will I still be her favorite son?

Chani: Will I still be her Precious Princess Pretty Pants? Wait... why am I concerned? Mom loves me, I get the kotatsu to sleep under, and I'm ok with how you totally hog her attention.

9: That's not the point! I'm... I'm waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

Chani: There, there. It's ok! We're going to be fine.

9: AND she forgot to give us TUNA for our birthdays yesterday! We are 3 years old and she didn't even celebrate it with us! I mean, I had my birthday in October and she didn't say anything. She missed Tock-tober! Waaaaaaaaah!

Chani: Oh my goodness, you are right! Mooooom! How could you??? Waaah!

--------------

Yes, dear friends, I am on the road to true Crazy Cat Lady status. I am going to test out Mango and see how 9 and Chani react to him. I'm sure that they will be just fine. Mango is really laid back and accepts whatever attention is given to him. I'm sure he'll be a bit freaked out being in a new place with 2 new kitties to deal with, but keep your fingers crossed.

And, well, I'm still working on my dad to make him see how wonderful it would be for Mango to live with them. At any rate, if that doesn't work, we shall soon be having a new kitty joining us :D

And I will probably rename him Sheamus... yes, after the Irish WWE wrestler... I can't help myself.

And I promise to give 9 and Chani some tuna for their birthdays before Mango/Sheamus comes over.

Don't think I can start another sentence with 'and'... my poor high school English teacher would be appalled :D

Wish us luck!

Foster kitties

2011-11-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, Mom visited her other friend who fosters kittens. She has two formerly feral Siamese looking kitten siblings. Above is the boy. He's kind of shy and would often hide under the bed. Mom had a hard time taking photos of him.

His sister is a bit less shy and totally loves ear and neck skritches. If you do that, she flops on your lap and just enjoys the attention.

Still, she's a bit shy. Such big ears though!

And she also likes the kitty bed.

Remember Mango? Well, he wasn't called that when mom first saw him. But that's his name now. The rest of his siblings all found furever homes, but he hasn't. And for once, when Mom visited, she was not all about the kittens. She was all about Mango. Hmm... we don't think there's enough room for another kitty in our condo... He's still a sweet boy. Independent. It's hard to tell what he's thinking, but he did flop on his side for some belly rubs and he let Mom pick him up a few times. Yes, Mom is in love with him... not as much as she loves us, but you know how it is...

Finally, there is Inky. He's an older foster who needs a home too. Oh, and there is this tortie girl too, but Mom didn't get any good photos of her because she was mooning over Mango so much...

More new friends - Gazoo, PITA, Suki and Snowy

2011-11-17T20:21:00.001-08:00

Mom went to visit a friend this past weekend and met 3 kitties and woofie. Above is Gazoo. Yes, he always looks paranoid apparently... Well, wouldn't you if you had to share your home with a big woofie like, Snowy (seen below)?

Still, Snowy is quite beautiful, don't you think? We're not sure we could handle living with a woofie, but Mom would love to have one heheh... pity she isn't home enough for a dog. Seriously, she's not home enough for us!

This is PITA (we'll let you guess what those letters stand for...) He was a feral rescue. Mom decided not to show off his whole body because, well... he's kind of big. Mom said something about a basketball on legs... He does have beautiful blue eyes though. Wow, just realized all of these new friends have beautiful blue eyes!

And finally, here is Suki. He's the sweetest of the bunch and feels very soft and clean. Pita and Suki stay upstairs away from Snowy. Only Gazoo is brave enough to be downstairs.

It's 9's turn

2011-11-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

It's about time I get some attention around here!

Thank you. Now I can sleep better

The kotatsu

2011-11-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

For those who don't know, a kotatsu is a Japanese table with a heating element under it. You can remove the table top and put a blanket over it. That way, your legs are all nice and warm and you can work on the table top. Yes, you do sit on the floor, but it's worthwhile.

Needless to say, Chani rather enjoyed being under the table, soaking up the heat. 9 was just happy sitting on my lap and letting me drape the blanket around him.

And yes, the kitties will have their Tocktober photos, one day. Hopefully, this month!

Impossible!

2011-11-01T14:35:00.001-07:00

Mom missed Tocktober!!! We shall be sure to fur up her freshly laundered clothing and all sorts of other disciplines to make sure she never forgets again!

And even worse, she has no pictures to post today. Bad Mom!

Chani loves when the bed is made

2011-10-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

Chani loves it when I change the sheets.

And she looks quite adorable when she's under the sheets too.

Tuesday tidings

2011-10-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

Mom is loving the camera phone still. 9 was polite enough and still enough for a lovely photo.

As for me, Mom loves how she captured my ear tips in this photo.

Resting and relaxing

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Mom is so happy to have a phone that takes photos again. She has completely foregone using the big black camera and is just taking photos of us using her phone. (She bought an iPhone 4s, if anyone is interested... We think the phone is doing weird things to Mom, she gets all giggly when holding the phone... do you think that it's emitting some sort of weird energy aura to make our Mom silly?)

At any rate, we had a nice snuggle sleeping on her last night while she was relaxing on the couch. 9 decided to clean my ears. He can be nice to me, I suppose.

I think he wanted to get closer to Mom... he likes sleeping on her chest, but I was in the way tee hee...

I love sleeping on Mom. So comfy.

And, at the end, I got all adorable and covered my eyes from the overhead light. Do I know how to work the cute or what?

Chani in a Kimono part 2

2011-10-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

Greeting friends, Mom dressed me up in my second kimono. I was quite sad. But I did make it out of the bedroom and lay on the cool tile to console myself.

Then my dear brother, 9, decided to try and fight me. I think he got jealous because Mom was taking so many photos of me. Do you think I stood for that? No, I held my ground!

He eventually lost interest...

And I was left to sit pretty on the tile.

And to contemplate the unfairness of it all...

Note from Marlene: When Chani sits in her kimono with her paws in front of her, I keep thinking that she looks like one of those proper, noble Japanese ladies kneeling in their kimonos. She's so pretty! Also, since Chani's gained a bit of girth after losing her tapeworm, the kimono no longer closes like it used to hehehe... So, it's good that I take photos of her lying down. Teehee... Also, I think this kimono's colors look better on her. She really does do well with the Autumn color palette.

Chani in a kimono

2011-10-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

Oh dear friends, woe is me. WOE is ME!!!

Since Mom can't find my Halloween dress, she bought me two new kimonos. Waaaah. She didn't get a good picture of me today. She was too busy playing with her new phone's camera that she didn't bother to get the big camera. BUT, this means, I'll have to wear the kimono again. Whimper whimper.

And she bought TWO because she couldn't decide which I'd look better in.

Since my brother is of no use, won't someone save me? Please!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

There was a time last year when Mom said she would not dress us up. What she failed to add to that statement was: She would not dress us up in Q who came before's costumes. Instead, she bought us some new costumes...

For me, she got a jester's collar because as she has stated before, I am a terrible model. I constantly try to get out of my clothes. After all, I have a beautiful white coat and lovely markings. Why would anyone want to hide that under silly costumes? Sigh...

Does this smell funny to you?

This is Mom's favorite picture of the series. Don't I look like I have vampire fangs??? heheh And she got a picture of my tongue.

As for Chani, who is so wonderful at modeling, she managed to hide her costume(I seriously doubt Chani hid her costume, I think Mom just forgot where she put it!), so Mom resorted to putting her in an old kerchief and this witch's hat.

Hi All, Chani here. I have to confess, I have no idea where my dress is. I was such a good girl wearing it too! Oh well. Silly Mom must have put it somewhere.

Don't I look dashing in this hat?

Yes, indeed, I am adorable.

No, I am not to happy to wear the hat, but Mom is happy she got a few pictures.

Where are our treats???

As a side note, we got lots of treats. Twice after the photo session.

Happy October everyone!

Chani on a Tuesday and toesies!

2011-10-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

9 here. I'm getting a little put out. Mom is taking a ton of pictures of Chani but not of me!How wrong is that? She says it's because I refuse to sit still, but seriously. I'm so handsome. She should move faster.

This past weekend, Mom was selling her painted plates at a show in San Francisco. She made her table fee plus a little bit more. If anything it was a great marketing show.

AND, she came back inspired to draw more. Below you see a blurry Chani (hehehe...) And the drawing she worked on last night. Mom was too tired to paint, but she just had to draw. And she said that it was quite the reminder to work in pencil without an option to CTRL-Z something... no undo button??? hehehe

Then Chani started with the beauty poses...

And finally, her toesies.

Happier on a Tuesday

2011-09-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

Chani much prefers Tuesday over Monday. Mom works from home...

And does laundry.

Princess Grumpy Pants

2011-09-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Looks like someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning...

Fizzgig!

2011-09-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Mom visited Fizgig and his family again. He is sure growing up! Look at how mature his face is now.

Oberon is still getting used to Fizzy, but they do play...

A bit...

Check out those belly spots! Aren't they great? Yes, Mom snorgled them a lot. She just couldn't resist them.

Cutie pie, yes? Mom's still having fun playing with her f/1.4 lens.

And finally, here is Fizzy with his Precious. He loves this toy and carries it about with him everywhere.

The Return of the Pink Blankie of Doom!!!

2011-09-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we have been having odd weather. It got a little cold and Mom has been feeling chilled. So, she put the Pink Blankie of Doom back on our bed. It made the temperature just right. Then, it got warm again. Being lazy, Mom decided to not take off the blankie yet. She figures it's going to get cold again.

Today was great though. She did laundry! Now, you all know that I have a thing for dirty laundry, but Mom's laundry isn't stinky enough. Now, freshly laundered clothes straight from the dryer. Talk about heavenly warmth!!!

Can you all give me a "Huzzah!" for warm laundry???

Marlene is tired

2011-09-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone. Chani here.

Mom is still tired from her weekend trying to sell her pottery. She now has a new sale in October that she is getting ready for. Work work work. Mom is not taking off enough time to actually rest! So today, she's a bit under the weather.

She is still giving us a lot of snuggles (Huggle time!) and is planning how to take photos of us for Halloween.

AND she cleaned up one area of the living room with the hopes of getting us another litter box. Someone, and I'm not saying who, but he's male and kind of annoying to me, is marking two areas in the living room. Mom is tired of cleaning up after him and is hoping another litter box will make him stop.

Mom did try Felliway, but it didn't seem to work.

She does promise to take photos of us soon!

Frootbat

2011-09-09T07:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Frootbat Friday from Oberon!

Marlene's Weekend

2011-09-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Just a quick note. I will be selling my pottery at Blossom Hill Crafts annual Fall Sale this weekend. If you are in the Bay Area of California, please come on by.

And if you want to see some of my pottery, check out my website/gallery.

Thanks a bunch!

Marlene

New Friends: Oberon, Pica and Fizgig!

2011-09-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Mom visited her friend and met some new fur-friends!

This is Oberon. He's a Devon Rex and although he looks like an alien, he's quite the kitty. He surprised his mom by letting our mom pet him. Though he did run away and only demand attention when Mom was ignoring him.

Don't you just love this look of his. It's as if he is plotting to take over the world and we are his underlings!

This is Pica, Oberon's doggy sister. She's a real sweetheart at 11 years of age. She gets some allergy medication with peanut butter every day.

Now, hold onto your hats to see an adorable Bengal kitten. Everyone, meet Fizgig!

Isn't he a doll? He loves to sleep belly up and boy does he like the air conditioner blasting in his face. Fizzy was all wiggly until his mommy put him in the direct path of the cool air. He then relaxed and started to zone out.

What a little love.

Cousin Christopher

2011-09-05T20:04:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, Mom's cousin, Christopher came over. Lucky, Scruffy and Fluffy live with his family down in Los Angeles, but Christopher is now going to university near us. So, he came over for some food and family time over the Labor Day Holiday weekend.

Chani was a bit stand-offish, but she did play when Christopher flipped the string toy at her.

Of course, 9 also played. He really loved Christopher... actually, 9 loves everyone who will give him attention.

Chani observed. She likes to be around the action, but not always part of it.

9 also got some good jumping time in.

Christopher liked this shot because 9 looks like a ninja.

In the end, 9 got a huggle from Christopher.

And Chani got some good brushing in.

Mom can't wait til Christopher can come visit again. 9 too... Chani's still making up her mind.

Tummy Tuesday

2011-08-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

Chani and 9 have been displaying their beautiful, soft, fuzzy tummies quite proudly.

You bet I snorgled them.

That's much better

2011-08-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

Mom felt a little bad (not really!) about that rather unattractive photo that she posted of me.

To make it up to me, she took this photo (I posed rather nicely, didn't I?) and posted it. Yes, she gave me lots of love and squishes. It was 'huggle' time. Sometimes, Mom wishes I enjoyed huggle time. Oh well.

Happy weekend everyone!

Heehee... Mom, how could you???

2011-08-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

Dude, what is up with you?

Itchy, ear, blinky eye! Don't look at me!!! Moooom! Why are you posting this picture???

Last bit of Maui

2011-08-17T15:26:00.000-07:00

Some last few photos of Maui. Above you see Iao Needle in Iao Valley.

Another view from Iao Valley. If you hike over this mountain, you can get to Lahaina. I think I'd rather go around via car than foot. And there have been some hikers who have gotten lost there. Still, it is pretty gorgeous.

Now, Sam Sato's is a restaurant that I've been going to since I was a little girl AND my father used to go when he was young too. It's good old local style plantation food. I love it. It's my favorite place to go and I would highly recommend it to anyone. It does get crowded and it's only opened for breakfast and lunch. They're famous for the dry saimin (ramen type noodles) but I always get their won ton mein or their chow fun. Tasty. And the fries which come with this Best Foods Mayo and French's mustard dip are really really good.

Now, for dessert, we go to Tasaka Guri Guri in the Maui Mall. This is another one of my childhood favorites. "Guri-guri" is a sort of Japanization of the words "goody goody". It's an ice cream/sherbert/sorbet type of mixture that only comes in strawberry and pineapple. I usually get 5 scoops mixed, but that seems to be a lot for some people. My parents usually go for the 3 scoop. When I was a kid, I preferred the strawberry, now I prefer the pineapple. Guri-guri does melt quickly, so it should be consumed right away. Love love love this.

Remember Mika from last year? Well, she still wasn't too happy that I was taking photos of her. I did attempt to snuggle with her later in the evening. She let me, but she wasn't pleased at all.

And then there is Patches. Sweet woofie who really enjoyed hanging around while we were eating dinner.

Finally, a rainbow seen from the entry of our hotel, the Sheraton Maui at Lahaina.

I am very happy to be home with my kitties, but a part of me is still in Maui.

Yay! We are together again

2011-08-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

Last night, Mom came home and snuggled with both 9 and myself. I even put up with it. It was somewhat shocking to Mom, but she was so happy to see us and to be fair, we were happy to see her.

9 kept love nomming on her fingers. And I was just being me. However, today, I have been constantly talking to Mom. I'm not sure she's understanding everything I said, but that's ok.

Last night, I was so happy, that I let 9 do a lot of cleaning on my face and ears. I purred instead of growling.

Life is good now that we are all together again :D

I am back!

2011-08-14T20:16:00.001-07:00

I am back from Hawaii and a bit heartsore that I'm back in San Jose. Sigh... 9 and Chani come home from the Kitty Hotel tomorrow. That will truly help, but I really missed them a lot while away.

I have a few more pictures from Maui, but I'm a bit busy and jet lagged, so those will have to wait.

More pictures of 9 and Chani when we get back together!

Oahu

2011-08-07T23:38:00.000-07:00

This flower is blooming near our hotel. I'm not sure what kind of flower it is. I'm really not all that knowledgeable about flora. But, it's pretty and I have to say, it is fun to play with my 50mm lens. The depth of field is so neat to see when captured on film.

I think this one is a red ginger. Also blooming near our hotel.

Finally, this is the view from my room at night. I like taking long exposure shots. The images that come out are pretty neat. It's amazing how much detail can appear in an image when you keep the aperture open for a long time.

Marlene is in Hawaii

2011-08-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

Aloha, everyone! While 9 and Chani relax at the Kitty Hotel, I am in Hawaii again. First, my family and I went to Kona. Right outside our hotel, we had these really lovely waves crashing against the rocks. They were quite loud, so I couldn't leave my sliding glass door open at night. Still, they were magnificent. One can really stand in awe of Mother Nature while watching these waves.

Mom wanted a photo for the Christmas card, so she and Dad posed for me. Lovely photo, yes? We also took photos of Dad and me and Mom and me... Oh boy, do I need to start working out. Ah well, isn't that always the case?

We are traveling with my cousin and her fiancee who has never been to Hawaii. So we're doing all sorts of tourist stuff like going to see the volcano (Kilauea) and Rainbow Falls (above). You'd think that driving around an island would not be too tiring, but it did take all day and we were exhausted by the end of it. Still, with such beautiful sites to see, one can't stay tired for too long.

A plumeria (edited from before... don't know what I was thinking by calling this a hibiscus!).

A 'honu' or sea turtle petroglyph made by the early Hawaiians.

Hibiscus.

Fiddlehead fern.

Fern... I'm not sure what the name is, but these ferns always grow perfectly symmetrical... it's pretty amazing to see fractal math like this in nature.

Finally, this is Lola, the woofie at Greenwell Coffee farms. She's a smart girl who comes down to where the local historical society makes Portuguese sweet bread the old fashion way. Yes, she naps in the sun and waits for some scraps from the bakers. And, if you have never had a taste of Portuguese sweet bread, you are missing out. I cannot recommend enough going to Greenwell farms to try this bread, especially when it is fresh and warm from the oven.

Three times the charm

2011-07-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

Mom went to visit the kittens for a 3rd time... very dangerous! She was tempted again by that darling floofy orangey boy, now named Mango. Above you see the cute tortie girl.

And the darling Siamese girl. Her name is Kirei which is Japanese for pretty or clean. She's still a doll, but was getting over an eye infection.

Here's the tortie girl again.

Here's Mango again. He's a little doll still! But he's not that quick on the uptake. Mom's not sure she could handle a 3rd kitty who is absolutely adorable and yet not that quick (it's hard to compare kitties against Q who was soooo smart!). And Grandpa gave a definite 'no'. Oh well. I'm sure he'll find a lovely home. He caught Kirei's eye infection :(

Here's his sister, Sunkist. She's got that eye infection too.

Mom has decided that it is too dangerous for her to visit kittens three times. It's too hard to not get attached!

All the kittens have had their operations and they are all ready for adoption. If anyone in the bay area of California is interested, let me know (marlene_hirose at yahoo.com).

Boy, we taught Mom a good lesson!

2011-07-24T18:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, around 6:00 a.m., is the ABSOLUTE best time to start a rousing game of THoE! And we even included Mom as part of our race track. Don't you think that Mom will learn the error of her ways? That she'll stop neglecting us and closing poor Chani up in the closet?

We hope so!

Though, she did try to teach Chani how to open a door at Grandpa's suggestion. It wasn't much of a success, but Mom remains undaunted. Still, she may regret teaching Chani how to open doors. Just think what could happen next! What doors could Chani open for us? The door to the pantry where our treats are held? Hmm... maybe there is something to this.

As for pictures... oh boy, do we have pictures. Mom bought a new lens for her camera (for those interested, it's a 50mm f/1.4 fixed length lens for her Nikon SLR camera). Just look at these lovely portraits she took of us!

She's still getting used to the focusing using such a wide open aperture, but she's loving taking photos of us :D

Happy Weekend!

Drama Princess

2011-07-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

My dear friends,

As you know, Mom has been horribly neglecting 9 and myself. She has been coming home very late (serving us our dinner long after the proper time) or coming home and going out again. There's even a rumor that she will be leaving us to go to that Hawaii place again! It's horrible!

But this morning, the most horrible thing happened. As she was getting ready to go to work, I followed Mom into the closet. She got what she needed, turned, left the closet and shut the door WITH ME STILL INSIDE THE CLOSET!

It was so traumatic!

I don't know what she was doing. I could hear her moving around, so I mewed to let her know I was trapped. She talked to me saying comforting things, that she'd be with me in a moment. And she even asked me why I didn't push the door open because it was slightly ajar and that's all I had to do to get out.

Me... push a door? I am flabbergasted she would even suggest that I, Chani Princess Pretty Pants, would lower myself in such a way as to push a door open. That is Mom's job (well, pull in her case), not mine!

And what was my dear brother doing while I was trapped? According to Mom, he was sitting outside the door. He was worried, but once he figured I was ok, he LEFT me! Grrrr...

All this trauma and drama has tired me out. I must rest now.

I hope you all have a better Friday than mine was this morning!

Mom is bad!

2011-07-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Mom has not been a good blogger about us these last few weeks. She'd like to blame it on having too much to do, but we know that is not true! She's been coming home and then going out again and definitely not working late at night.

Hmph! This calls for something drastic. We must have our pictures out there on the Internet!!!

Please be patient with us as we attempt to show Mom how 'bad' she has been lately.

hugs and purrs to you all,
9 and Chani

New friends! Toro and Mochi

2011-07-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

The other day, Mom went to a brunch and met up with Toro and Mochi. She took photos of them before, but can't remember if she posted those photos. It has been a couple of years. Above is Toro. He's a sweetie. Loves loves loves attention. Kind of like 9!

This is Mochi. She's a bit more like Chani. Attention on her terms, not the humans. Hehe... both she and her brother are rescue kitties and from the same litter. Their fur is soooo soft!

Mochi is very good at keeping her brother clean.

And they do snuggle together. Very sweet.

Us again!

2011-07-13T06:36:00.000-07:00

Remember how much I love boxes? I showed off my love again last week.

And here I am looking all handsome and adoring. The camera sure loves me, doesn't it?

And relaxing... it's been very hot here, so what else can one do but lounge about?

And Chani in the sun. Mom was hard pressed not to drop the camera instantly and snorgle her belly.

The Fosters again

2011-07-12T11:30:00.001-07:00

Mom has been very remiss of late. She has been taking photos of other kitties instead of us! How annoying. But, we still love here. The other day, she went to visit her friend and the foster kittens again. Boy, they have grown!

Here's the little black girl kitty.

Ooh! This orange boy is from another litter. He had the sneezies, but he's enjoying being with all the lovely girl kitties.
The tortie girl is back with her family! She definitely has the toritude and tortie cuteness going.

Here's the orangey girl. She's so spunky still and sweet.

And the orangey longish hair boy. He obviously isn't all that great, is he? Heheh... I jest. He's a sweetheart and quite independent. Mom is trying to convince Grandpa and Grandma that they need to adopt his guy, but they're being stubborn.

Here's the orangey boy again. Very cute.

And all the kittens eating.

And here's the orangey long hair boy again. Squee!

Diamond

2011-07-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last night, Mom went to a friend's house and met this beautiful floofy girl named Diamond. She's pretty sweet. At first she was hesitant to let Mom pet her, but by the end of the visit, Diamond was rubbing herself against Mom and wanting pets.

She's a beaut!

Mr. Handsome

2011-06-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

Oh those eyes so blue. So dreamy. Yes, you are my Handsome boy, 9!

Princess Pretty Pants

2011-06-28T16:29:00.001-07:00

Say what??? That's my nickname?

but but but, aren't I pretty all over?

Yes, yes, you are Chani-chan. I just like the alliteration.

Of Pink Toes and Chani being adorable

2011-06-23T10:07:00.001-07:00

Chani decided to claim the bed... or rather, the side of the bed that I was occupying up until I decided to get up and use the ahem facilities.

At first, I was a bit 'annoyed', but then Chani did this adorable pose including a bendy ear and well, who could stay annoyed with that cuteness in front of them?

9 has been his usual adorably naughty self. He climbed up on my desk and knocked over a bunch of papers. So, I moved everything off of the desk and put the knitted kitty bed that Siena and Chilli's mom sent them as a cushion for him to rest upon.

And late last night, 9 was sitting above me on the headboard. His adorable pink toe was far too enticing not to take a photo of. Love his laser eyes too.

This being Thursday, we have to say that we are thankful for the beautiful weather (despite the heat!) and are happy to be together.

purrs!

Tuesday Time Machine

2011-06-21T11:55:00.001-07:00

I decided to revisit some old photos (while hunting for other photos) and came across some photos of Q. Above you can see what a big boy he was. So squishy cute!

And how he liked to sleep on pillows all curled up.

And of course, when it got hot or when he felt like it, he flattened himself on his back. Of course, this helped with getting belly rubs and snorgles.

Happy Summer Solstice!

Ommm...

2011-06-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Chani meditates on how nice it is to snuggle with Mom on her own terms and not during squish or 'huggles' time as Mom calls it.

She also is meditating on how nice it is that Mom is not going to LA this weekend(much to Mom's semi-disappointment... she hates LA, but would have loved to have stayed at the W Westwood).

Happy Friday, everyone!

More foster kittens

2011-06-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Mom's friend is fostering again! This time, she has a pair of adorable orangey kits... a boy and a girl. The girl is the one who is looking directly at the camera.

The orange twins have a black sibling too. There is a tortie sister too, but she wasn't doing to well, so she went to another foster family who had a mama cat. So far, she's doing much better and gaining some pounds there.
They sure are adorable.

This orange girl is quite spunky!

Now, prepare yourself for some utter cuteness. Mom was so enchanted by this Siamese looking girl. This one is from a different litter and is a bit older, but she was sooooo sweet and her floofy belly tempted Mom a lot!

And the fact she fell asleep in Mom's hand, on her back with crossed back paws just made Mom squee inside.

Now, Mom thought really hard about adopting this little girl, but really she can't afford to have another kitty. And there is no place for yet another litter box in our condo. We're sorry sweet little girl! But, we know that with your looks and personality, you will get adopted very quickly!

All is well

2011-06-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

Purrr... Mom is back and we have been making good use of her lap.

Chani loves to roll on her side so she can get some good chest scratches.

We both love to sleep on Mom too. Now, maybe some of you might notice, Chani and I seem to have grown since we had our tapeworm medication. Our fur is softer (Chani's is silkier), but do we seem bigger to you now? Mom sure thinks so. Silly tapeworm impeding our growth!

I made sure to show off my belly to Mom to 'punish' her for leaving us! How dare she leave such cuteness behind while she goes off to Los Angeles??? And what is this, she is going down south again in 2 weeks??? NO!!! Well, at least we will get to go to Grandma and Grandpa's this time.

Silly Mom, leaving us again!

Shhh... Marlene's secret love

2011-05-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

I simply loooooove Welsh Corgis, especially Pembroke Welsh corgis. They are sooooo cute!

The other day, a friend brought his date to the pottery studio and she brought her pet corgi. Now, I don't remember the corgi's name, but she was adorable and sweet. Very friendly little girl!

Just to show how animal centric I am, as I was leaving, I said goodbye to the corgi and absolutely forgot to say "goodbye" and "nice to meet you" to her owner. Oh dear, I think I'm losing my manners! At any rate, the girl did say "nice to meet you" to me and I did respond with an apology. My friend then told his date that he somehow has acquired many friends who prefer animals to people. I am definitely among that crowd!

So. Cal friends

2011-05-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hello there. I'm Lucky. Marlene has taken photos of me before and posted them. Yes, she came to Southern California and visited us. However, I do not think that we were the main reason why she came to visit. My human boy graduated from high school, so that may have been the reason. At any rate, she took pictures of us. I believe her kitties, 9 and Chani, stayed at the Kitty Hotel.

Hi there! I'm Scruffy! My humans sometimes say that I should have been called Napoleon.

Sigh... I don't know why they think that. I just like to be the center of attention and will show Lucky that I am the dominant one in the household. I'm just trying to teach everyone the natural order of things here.

Still, I am very friendly and cute. I do like laps.

I even put up with Marlene's father playing with my ears. I'm really a good boy, don't you think?

Greetings and salutations. I'm Fluffy, the Queen of this household.

I do like this Uncle here. He gives me lots of attention when he visits me.

I am a pretty kitty. And pretty sweet when I want to be.

This is my "Why didn't you bring a proper camera instead of just your cell phone?" look. I mean honestly, how does Marlene expect to take decent photos of my glorious self with a cell phone???

Ah well.
-------
It is Memorial Day today. I hope everyone had a good holiday (stateside, that is). The Kitty Hotel is not open today, and so, my parents will pick up 9 and Chani tomorrow and bring them home. I have to say, the condo is very quiet without them. I can't wait to see them again!!!

Chan-chan girl

2011-05-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Chani love playing with her catnip eyeball... when she gets a chance to play with it. 9 tends to hog them all...

She does know how to pose for pictures.

She does quite well with the dramatic lighting too.

As for her tapeworm, after Chani had her medication, her fur is much softer and silkier. And, I think she is getting a bit chubbier. I dressed her up in her pink dress and it was getting tighter around her chest. Considering she just had the medication last week... oh boy. I think a little lady is going to have to get a bit more exercise. Just like her mommy.

9-kun

2011-05-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

I make sure to inspect the bed once Mom de-sheets it. I'm quite particular in this because we do sleep in this bed, after all.

Inspection complete. Now, Mom may add sheets and blankets. Purrrr...

-------
Hi All,

Marlene here. Sigh... last month, I saw a little tapeworm poking its way out of 9's nether regions. Talk about being creeped out! So, I called Dr. S, spoke to the receptionist who ordered medication for 9. She wouldn't authorize meds for Chani. Now, I should have insisted, because... last night, I found evidence that Chani also has a tapeworm.

I'm pretty sure that both cats had tapeworms since the time I adopted them. Those little rice grain/sesame seed shaped debris should have been a dead give away! The adoption people did say that 9 and Chani were wormed, but well, there was no let up in sesame seed debris and they did have that horrible flea infestation back in the day which probably didn't help them. At any rate, both cats are still quite healthy. 9 even gained weight with his pet parasite! Still, it's kind of gross and well, makes me more aware of the inner working of my beloved pair.

Maybe this will help Chani get over her less than ladylike moments of passing gas... though, it is kind of cute albeit stinky.

I never had these issues with Q! So many things to worry about...

Chani-chan

2011-05-17T15:08:00.001-07:00

I really like it when Mom does laundry. Especially when she washes the sheets. I must make sure to inhale the clean scent and make sure that I re-fur the sheets before she folds them to put them away.

We had some sun this past week. I like it, but our condo's windows are not in the optimum place for the creation of sun puddles. I take what I can get.

Mom loves my profile. She says I have an exquisitely shaped face. What do you think?

9 is a good brother... really!

2011-05-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how much Chani appreciates it though...

We are back!

2011-05-03T09:51:00.000-07:00

Mom did not have a good sale and was in a very bad mood on Sunday. We helped her out by letting her squish us. After such 'stress' for us, we lay in the sun to recover.

Oh, we lead such a difficult life.

Chani meditates to keep her calm. The rays of the sun certainly help her maintain her Zen mindset.

Above is Shadow, the studio cat. She is definitely the Queen of Blossom Hill Crafts.

Doesn't she have the most adorable nose???

Mom is feeling much better now that the sale is done. She's got a few ideas about what to make next, but is not sure she'll take part in the next studio sale. She will have to see and will let you know!

Tuesday Time Machine

2011-04-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post. Years ago, Mom took some photography classes using "gasp!" black and white film! Q, who came before, was one of her favorite subjects, of course. The assignment was to do a 1 second exposure portrait. So, Mom set up a tripod, set the camera up for auto shoot, picked up Q, squished him for 1 second. She did a couple of shots and then in the dark room, merged her two favorite images.

Mom has been squishing kitties forever, hasn't she!

As for pottery, if anyone is in the Bay Area of California this weekend, and if you feel like meeting Mom in person, please visit her at the Blossom Hill Crafts Annual Spring Sale!

Tuesday Tidings

2011-04-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hear ye! Hear ye! I, 9, the most magnificent, have an announcement.

Mom is very busy these days. She has a pottery sale at the end of this month and she seems to be suffering from an overabundance of creativity. She is sketching and coloring and being all artsy fartsy. She does take a break on occasion to give us lots of love (involving far too many squishes!), but, it is far from enough.

So, she will be taking a mini-blogcation until after the sale. Please forgive her. We will be sure to present her with many photo opportunities by being utterly adorable and sweet and cute, but who knows if she will pick up the camera. Sigh...

Until May, dear friends!

Squishes on a Saturday

2011-04-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

The cool temperature in our condo means both Blankies of Doom are in full use. Mom lies under them and then we lie on top of Mom. Unfortunately, it means that there are many opportunities for squishing. Sigh...

9 gets squished too.

And kisses... lots of kisses. Poor 9. Heheh...

Unfortunately, after 9 gets squished, his dander is up and he attacks me. Mom does break it up, but it gets annoying. Oh well... at least we get cuddles too.

Happy Saturday all!

Princess Chani

2011-04-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

Princess Chani wishes you all will have a lovely weekend. Although the weather is warming up and it is bright and sunny, it's still cool in our condo. So, the Pink Blankie of Doom is still getting a lot of use. No complaining from us here.

Thursday close ups

2011-04-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Love 9's beautiful blue eyes and pink nose

Chani's a doll too

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Friend's foster kittens

2011-04-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

Mom went to visit a friend who is fostering kittens. Do you remember the last batch of kittens she visited? Well, those babies got adopted (though Mama kitty succumbed to an illness right after weaning the babies :( ). Now, our friend is fostering two more. Above you see the grey girl.

Here's a portrait. She's very spunky!

Mom held the black cow kitty boy who is much more mellow than his sister. He's so tiny! He fit in Mom's hand and dozed a bit.

Here they are with a feather toy (Ikea kitty tent in the background).

And here they are eating. The girl was quite 'pushy' but the boy made sure to get some of his own too.

No, we won't be getting a new sibling. Mom is worried that 9's personality might change if he's no longer the center of attention. But, she does love to see new babies!

Yin Yang Thursday

2011-03-30T23:05:00.001-07:00

We are thankful for the warm weather. Makes napping all that much better

Tuesday Time Machine

2011-03-29T10:20:00.001-07:00

My favorite picture of Q

Zoning out on a Friday

2011-03-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

Ommmmmmmmm

Zzzzzzzzz

happy Friday everyone!

New friend, Precious

2011-03-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

Mom visited a friend this weekend to help out with some computer stuff and finally met this gorgeous tuxie Norwegian Forest cat. This is Precious, who is kind of a shy girl. It took Mom 3 visits to this friend's house to actually see Precious and for Precious to grace Mom with her presence. Precious did let Mom pet her a bit. But she can be a bit 'testy' as described by Precious-Mom.

She has a cat tower from which she can peer down upon the humans.

And she has the most adorable pink toesies!

Playing

2011-03-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

Resting

2011-03-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

It has been such a hard week what with Mom cuddling and squishing us so much. Thankfully, Mom sat down for a bit and let us use her legs as a bed. I decided to use Chani as my pillow. She didn't mind.

Sigh... this is lovely and so comfy.

Tuesday Cuddling

2011-03-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Mom has been going overboard on the snuggles this week! First she was squishing Chani and now me. Look at me!

Enough, Mom!!! I wanna play!

What the pictures do not show or what you can't hear is how loudly 9 is purring through all this hehehe

Halp!!!

2011-03-21T14:42:00.000-07:00

I am being squished!!! Halp!!!

Friends Benkei, Nausicaa and Chiyo... oh and a bird!

2011-03-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Mom went to visit friends, Aki and Emma, who we both really like. They have 3 kitties and a few birdies.

This is Benkei. He's a handsome floofy guy. Recently, he has had some health issues, but Mom was pleased to see him looking so much better than before.

This is Nausicaa. She can be shy, but she let Mom pick her up and pet her.

This is Chiyo who we have met. We met her the first night at our condo. She came to visit overnight. We didn't really get a long, but Chiyo does like Mom. Mom was the first of Emma's friends Chiyo. Mom even met her before Aki did!

Finally, this is Serval. He's an elderly bird who looooves Coke and Emma very much.

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend. Mom is bemoaning the fact that it's 1:36 in the afternoon already. "Where does the time fly???" she keeps asking. Well, earlier, we spent a few hours snuggling together. It stopped Mom from sculpting, but we think it was time well spent.

Happy Sunday!

The coats of 9 and Chani

2011-03-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

9 has such an interesting fur pattern by his shoulder blades. The darker spots look like butterfly or angel wings.

Chani's coat has such depth to it. Sometimes, you can't see all the different colors unless it's behind the lens of a camera.

Happy Friday everyone! Have a great weekend!

Thankful Thursday

2011-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today, we are thankful to be together and to have a warm place to sleep. Mom is suffering from the change in time (Daylight Savings Time), but she hopes to recover quickly.

It's St. Patrick's Day. Mom had planned to go out to celebrate, but instead, she is going to the wood kiln to pick up her latest pieces. So much for doing new things, Mom!!! hehe

Happy St. Patrick's Day to you all!

Wednesday Portraits

2011-03-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Pawsies Tuesday

2011-03-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, there was a rather lovely display of pawsies...

There's something about seeing these beautiful white paws against the hot pink Blankie of Doom.

Chani has returned to normal, but she seems to be very very vocal for the past two days. Mew mew mew... Nothing seems to pacify her. Before, I could just call to her and she would come running to wherever I was. Now, I have to go to where she is to make her happy. Sigh...

Chani

2011-03-10T08:39:00.000-08:00

Greeting everyone. As you might have heard, I have had quite a bit of stress in my life the past few days. Two nights ago, this was me. I was recovering from the visit to the VET but calm and quite meditative.

Then, Mom took me to the VET again the next morning because of my eyes! I made sure to tell her I was upset on the way there. During the visit, I just lay passively in her arms without whining or squeaking at all. (Secretly, I bet she loved that!... I joke, but I do tend to complain when she picks me up).

On the way home, after getting my ear flushed and all that, I made sure to voice my displeasure and show it as well. I hid under the comfy bed she put in my carrier. Every now and then, I would poke my head out so she could hear my complaints at full volume without being muffled by the bed.

I did perk up a bit and had a good day at home. When Mom came home from work, I had forgiven her and greeted her at the door with 9. I ate my dinner and slept next to her too.

This morning, Mom checked my eyes and they look much better! Yay! I did manage to stumble once when I shook my head. Mom hopes I'll get over it.

However, since I'm doing better, Mom is making this an occasion to cuddle with me a lot! Now, let me tell you, WE DO NOT CUDDLE IN THE MORNING! Especially when it is not on my terms.
Grrrr... I hope she stops this morning cuddling nonsense. I can barely tolerate it when she does it at night!

Marlene here. Thank you everyone for your support! As Leslie said, it's our own fears and worries that can make things so much worse. Chani is doing much better. She probably thinks I was worrying unnecessarily, but better safe than sorry. I love my little Princess! Now, I have to make sure that 9 doesn't feel neglected since Chani has been getting so much more attention these past few days.

Marlene is freaked

2011-03-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

Last night, I noticed that one of Chani's pupils was dilated while the other was contracted. Earlier in the evening, I could have sworn that I smelled Pine-sol on her or something chemical.

Now, earlier in the week, I had a little glass cup of Pine-sol (it was lightly covered) in an area where 9 likes to make his mark. I was using the Pine-sol as a deterrent. That little glass cup got knocked over. I didn't really think anything about it til last night when I thought smelled the Pine-sol on Chani.

Still, she acted fine and ate her dinner. Slept next to me as she usually does.

This morning, I checked her pupils and they are still one dilated and one contracted. And she seems a bit more lethargic.

At any rate, Chani is going back to visit Dr. S today. I'm hopeful that she will be just fine. I'm also freaking out because I'm so worried about her. Part of me is hoping that she might have gotten an eye injury when we got back from the vet yesterday (she and 9 went at it in a big way... she was grumpy and he was being aggressive). The other part of me is kicking myself for not cleaning up the Pine-sol. Honestly, I thought it had dried but it was still slightly damp yesterday.

I will post an update as soon as I know anything.

Update:
Dr. S thinks that Chani might have had a reaction to the medicine that was put in her ear to clean it yesterday. The constricted pupil matches the side where the medicine went in... so poor Chani got her ear flushed with saline. The odd thing is that she's had her ear cleaned with the same medicine before, so we're not sure why she had a reaction this time.

At any rate, she seems to have perked up a bit and is now eating her breakfast. I, of course, am still a mess, but less of one that earlier.

Shenanigans!!!

2011-03-08T10:57:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was our 2nd Gotcha Day and we did not get any Tuna! How wrong is that? And then, we were unceremoniously shoved into our cages and taken to the V-E-T! Chani protested on the way over (honestly, Mom thinks that Chani is flashing back to before she was adopted and worried that Mom is going to abandon her. NO! Mom would never abandon Chani nor me!)

Anyways, we were let out of the cages in the examination room. Neither of us came out of our own volition, so Mom had to drag us out. A vet tech took our weights and temperatures (never fun!). Chani is still 10 lbs. I, however, gained a few ounces... I went up from 10.6 lbs to 11. Hehe... But I don't look fat! The tech left to let our doctor know that we were ready and we sort of explored.

Chani checked out the door that led to the back rooms where she would later get her ear cleaned.

We both went behind my carrier. I eventually moved around, but Chani did her best to find a hidey hole.

She was pretty well camoflauged there, but boy did her face and this picture tug at Mom's heartstrings.

Eventually, Dr. S came in and checked us out. I was fine.

Chani was a bit more squirmy. But, she got a clean bill of health too.

On the way home, Chani made sure to let Mom know how disgruntled she was about the VET visit, but she calmed down. And boy, were we happy to be home again.

And finally, we got TUNA!!! It was delicious.

So happy belated Gotcha Day celebration day to us. And concatulations to us for having a great VET visit!

Happy 2nd Gotcha Day to Us!

2011-03-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

Guess what! It's our 2nd Gotcha Day! Mom is so pleased that we are such a big part of her life. And we are so pleased that we let her adopt us!

Here's a picture of us from when we first arrived. Yes, we have grown up a lot since then.

Mom has been telling her friends that it's our 2nd Gotcha Day and everyone keeps remarking how it doesn't seem like it's been 2 years. Crazy how fast time flies, huh?

We hope you are all having a wonderful Monday. We wonder if we will get some sort of special treat tonight. Keep your paws and tails crossed that we might get some T-U-N-A!

Little Man's first Birthday Party

2011-03-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

2 weekends ago, Little Man had his first birthday party. He had a cake specially made for him (Angel food with goat shaped oat cookies)

He even got dressed up for it.

The guests wore party hats.

And everyone got to chow down on some yummy greens, seeds, crackers and such...

It was definitely a special day for him!

Happy first birthday, Little Man!

9, the mighty hunter

2011-03-01T15:45:00.000-08:00

Grrr! I am 9! I have laser eyes and I hunt stuffed mousies! See how fierce I am???

I am such a mighty hunter!