A Cats Golden Years

Wonderful News

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

With the holidays behind us, work began by removing the trees ornaments, packing the lights and then cutting the tree, adding the pieces into the green recycle container. There is still more work ahead, at least a full days worth and in the meantime Ms K is was relaxing the couch, watching with eyes half open, the progress that was being made.

Earlier in the morning, before I rose from bed to tackle the day, I was working on the laptop, answering emails, as Ms K relished her extended hours in bed along side of me.

Keeping warm next to dad in bed

The year 2011 ended on a high note for Ms K and me, having received a wonderful award and a few days later, a package in the mail from Vermont addressed to Ms Kitty.

Our ‘Liebster blog’ award, was bestowed upon us by Mumsy and Furkids. The word Liebster is German and translates to dearest.

Mumsy is a delightful dog and of course Furkids are three beautiful felines. There is Popsy, Patches and Snookums, who iIam sure have played a game of torment with Mumsy now and then.

Our award

Mumsy and Furkids humans also have another blog, Mumsy’s ramblings and on their last post are pictures of many beautiful red cardinals visiting their garden. I confess, I wish we had this species in our area, but alas, this is not to be so.

Ms K’s package contents

Just before Christmas we received an email from PetNaturals® of Vermont, informing us of their products and asking if we would try one of their products and blog about it. In return we would receive a years supply of Calming Soft-chews for Cats. A product I felt would benefit us not only for Ms K on New Years day but especially Oliver, who as you know is with my daughter at UCSC and you shall meet once I visit them in a couple of weeks.

PetNaturals® of Vermont

In general we have not been endorsing any products or services, but this time we were actually looking for something to soothe Ms K and Oliver, when Oliver comes for a visit, since both were very stressed the last time he came for a visit. Therefore, when we received the request from PetNaturals®, it was very timely, so we decided to give it a try and over the next several weeks we will let you know how things are going. In the meantime, please do have a look at PetNaturals® website and see their many products, which available for both cats and dogs. You can also reach them toll free at: 1.888.340.1995 or check their store finder by typing in your zip code.

For now we wish you all the very best in 2012 and we look forward to another wonderful year, sharing stories and experiences between felines and their humans.

(^..^)

♥

Holiday Greetings

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Greetings dear Visitor

I would like to share a little something from our family to yours.

Dad and I wanted this to be posted a few days ago but then decided to wait until big sister came home from UCSC as she was going to bring Olive, AKA: Ole. Oliver is a male cat, not a year old, who was adopted, more like rescued this last summer and was introduced briefly to Ms K over the Thanksgiving holiday week last month. Unfortunately, Ms K took offense, even though Oliver wanted to play, MS K would not budge. Anyway, the reason for not posting earlier was that late last night the big sister, Ariana decided to leave Oliver with one of her six (male) roommates at UCSC and therefore dad was unable to take a picture of Oliver and introduce him on Ms K’s blog to you all.

We still remain hopeful that at some point when we introduce Oliver to Ms K, they will get along, especially since Ole came from a home where a woman was ‘hoarding’ cats and so is used to company. In the meantime Ole’s health has improved and he no longer has flies, having had more than 37 at the time dad had a chance to take care of him.

With that said, the following is our e-Christmas card, for which I refused to pose, by always walking toward the camera. Maybe I’ll change my mind when I am amidst all the wrapping paper that once covered the gifts.

At the end of our holiday greeting are a couple of the holiday cards that we received from fellow bloggers that we wanted to share with you.

___

With my brother’s assistance,

our perfect christmas tree, a superior noble was found and finally decorated.

Now boxes were opened and from it is removed a wooden horse,

a big Santa, the Snowman family and other items

to bring the house into the holiday spirit.

We would like to wish you a wonderful holiday season

and the very best in the coming year

Peace be with you

Ms K and the van Dyck family

___

Animal Shelter Volunteer

Wildcat Woods

___

No it is time to get plenty of sleep because tomorrow morning

it is going to be exhausting as I already know

dad has brought me many gifts.

Maybe I’ll dream about a little snow . . .

. . . no, I like it warm

(^..^)

♥

Let me be reincarnated as a cat

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Earlier today I came across this article I wish to share with you. It appeared in the on-line edition of the Guardian UK on December 9, 2011 and is written by John Hopper (Rome).

Since I take care of Ms Kitty I know how spoiled she can be, especially when it comes to what she eat, considering never twice in a row the same thing. In other words no left-overs! So when I found this article about a stray cat now being the riches feline, I wonder if he is going to invite any of his friends over.

Now don’t you wish in your second life to come back as a feline?

The article:

Italian cat inherits €10m fortune

Four-year-old stray becomes world's richest feline

after death of 94-year-old mistress

A black cat. Tommaso, a four-year-old stray, has become the world's richest cat

Photograph: Alamy

Tommaso, a four-year-old, one-time stray from Rome, is thought to have become the world's richest cat.

Since the death of his 94-year-old mistress last month, he has become a property magnate — or perhaps mognate — with flats and houses worth an estimated €10m scattered from Milan in the north to Calabria in the south.

In a handwritten will, signed on 26 November, 2009, Tommaso's mistress — the childless widow of a successful builder — gave her lawyers the task of identifying "the animal welfare body or association to which to leave the inheritance and the task of looking after the cat Tommaso".

One of the lawyers, Anna Orecchioni, told the Rome daily Il Messaggero they considered several organizations without getting adequate guarantees of the cat's future comfort and welfare. In the meantime, the old lady met a fellow cat-lover – named only as Stefania – in a park. "Sometimes I'd go to her house so my cat could play with Tommaso," Stefania said.

As the old lady became increasingly frail, Stefania, a nurse, began to take care of her.

"She needed someone to help her move around, shower and eat. I looked after until the end," she said.

Under Italian law, animals cannot inherit directly. But they can be beneficiaries if a suitable trustee is found. The elderly widow decided to entrust the cat – and his fortune – to Stefania.

Tommaso's trustee, who is now looking after him an undisclosed address outside Rome, said: "I had no idea the signora had such wealth."

But the fortune pales by comparison with that of Gunther IV, an Alsatian who inherited from his father Gunther III, the pet of a German countess. According to the Pet Gazette, he is worth around $372m.

The richest cat was previously thought to be Blackie, who was left £9m by his reclusive British owner in 1988.

Do I care about the Italian Gigilo? Na . . .

I like it here on my throne pillow, so now let me go back to sleep.

(^..^)

♥

Thanksgiving Day wishes

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

To those who are hosting this years Thanksgiving Day event,

may everything go according to your plans and

that your home is filled with the laughter

of friends and family.

You, who are traveling, may your journey be safe

and your hearts filled with joy.

Wishing you all the very best

Ms K and Egmont

See you all very soon . . .

Now dad is off to the kitchen

to do his magic

(^..^)

♥

Our families Cranberry Salsa

2011-11-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

Do we have to get up? It is so very nice here

For the last 14-16 years that I have been making it, the recipe has undergone an evolution from when it was first discovered in a Martha Stewart’s magazine. Over the years, numerous changes have been applied to it and now it has become more my recipe. With this years version, it may also just be my best, so I better write it down in order that I know or next year.

This salsa is not only good on Thanksgiving Day, but also later in the year on cold cuts instead of mayonnaise. I even had it today while it was cooking with tortilla rounds and it was delicious. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts on this.

Jars of cranberry salsa cooling

As with all recipes, we need to make adjustment to suit our tastes, so if you make adjustments that is all right with me, just remember to maintain proportions with the taste you are trying to achieve. Here is the recipe for making it:

The base:

Tostitos chunky salsa - mild x1

Ocean Spray whole cranberry sause x2

(Note: this year the can is 2 oz. smaller and the whole cranberries almost invisible when compared to the previous years.)

You can vary the quantities on the remaining ingredients but this is what I used this year:

1 large or 2 small red onions, cut small

1 medium size onion, cut small

1 bunch (5 to a bunch) green onions, cut very fine

3 medium-large plump Roma tomatoes, diced

1 large red bell pepper, cut small

1 large lemon and lemon peel slivers, (roll lemon on the cutting board with some pressure to release the juices and oils before cutting the skin into thin slivers which are then copped to 1/2” length

1/4 cup of sugar

1/2 cup of yellow raisins

2 bunches of cilantro (if the bunch is small get 3, you want plenty) chop real fine

Optional:

1 medium large orange, sliced and diced

1/4 − 1/2 cup pine nuts, whole

This is what I am going to try next year.

Cook all these at medium flame and when the center bubbles, reduce heat to medium-low, stir often so the bottom does not burn. Cook for one hour with the last 20 minutes on low.

Remember you can prepare this several days in advance and refrigerate. These extra days allow the flavors to merge. When serving, please remember to warm it up. Enjoy.

Oh good, we are finished. Though it took only

two hours, I am tired and ready for a nap

Sharing my pillow—nice, I love you dad

(^..^)

♥

Creating an animation or slideshow

2011-11-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Listen up, I am here to show you how to do an animation,

which can also be used to create a slideshow

Our last post we had two animations and were asked by a fellow reader how it was done. Though it is rather simple, it does take a little planning, especially if one decides to add text. Overall the process requires a little forethought as to what one wishes to achieve.

Now I use Photoshop, which has an animation feature. Adobe’s Elements 10, available for Macintosh and Windows, has a feature for turning pictures into movies, which is not the same as creating a regular animation. I did search Adobe’s Element 10 website for an answer if they have an animation feature, but was unable to discover any mention of it.

I mentioned that you can also create a slideshow of your images and not just an animation, between the two there is little difference, so what I am sharing with you today, applies to both.

In order to achieve a good sequence of multiple images it is important to have the camera on a tripod and the subject matter moving slowly so that you are able to capture a good number of images that are equally spaced out, so not to appear choppy. Now if you are working with only two or three images already available, just make sure that they work in the sequence your planning to put together.

Copy all your images into a folder and I suggest adding a prefix of #01, #02 etc., to each image so you know which one to import first into Photoshop. As you begin to open an image decide what size the animation is going to be, then resize the image and save it for ‘Web and other Devises’. This way you will optimize each image and reduce file size. Do this to all the images you are planning to use.

Concerning the final size of the animation/slideshow, I recommend no larger that 400 pixels and no smaller than 150 pixels for best results within Blogger. I should also point out that once it is uploaded to Blogger, it has to be at ‘Original Size’ or it will not run, but let’s get back to importing the images to Photoshop.

Now that they are all resized, create a new file based on their final size and begin importing them with the first image first and so forth. You will notice that you have created a set of layers, one upon another. Now safe it.

Building upon the first image and layer

All images are imported and in their own layer

Make sure all layers are deselected except for the first image

Select and obtain the animation window from the menu bar

Import the first image. Note you are in frame mode, which is preferred

After having imported all your images it is time to select

the exposure of each image

Select the desired exposure rate

With all still selected set to ‘forever’ otherwise the animation will only run once

Now save for the internet

Make sure to check GIF to it will not work

Time to check how it looks and if it needs any adjustments -

remember it needs to be 'Original Size'

If you are doing a slide show, the only thing you will do is adjust the length each frame is exposed in order to allow one to view the image before proceeding to the next one. Should your slide show contain vertical and horizontal images there are two other steps that needs to be accomplished before importing all your images.

When one combines vertical and horizontal, your end format will be a square and the background will be white unless you decide to go transparent. For a sample of a combination of vertical and horizontal images in a square layout please visit my Art of Aids post.

Now it is time for an afternoon snooze before dinner

(^..^)

♥

Finally my turn

2011-10-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today was simple beautiful. Dad was cleaning the house and washing the tiles, when I decided to go out on the balcony. After seeing it was all clear and that there was more sun puddles to be had on the deck I ventured there. Dad kept an eye on my so I felt safe but I could not help be on special alert. After a gust of wind, causing leaves to be picked from the branches, tumbling down to the awaiting pile covering much of the backyard, it was especially those that had already fallen and were now stirred that caused me to be on alert.

Dad has access to a new camera, a small pocket digital that has been laying around his son’s room and was not being used, so now I get my picture taken a little more.

I have to focus on our fence line making sure there is no one trespassing.

Now back on the balcony the surveillance continues

because one has to keep an eye for intruders.

I even have to look over dad’s shoulder.

Sometimes it gets so busy all I do is turn my head

from one side to the other —

It can make you dizzy.

Time for a break and soak up some weaning autumn sunlight.

Now before you leave us, let me share with you

my next post. It is about dad and what he

has been up to these last months.

Here is a preview.

(^..^)

♥

The Leonardo of Silicon Valley

2011-10-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

I am saddened by the loss of a great innovator and modern day Santa Clara's Leonardo da Vinci, Steve Jobs, who passed away this afternoon.

If you are an Apple product user you will know what I mean, because it was his vision that propelled us into the digital era and to experience things differently.

Please observe a moment of silence

1984 Super Bowl Commercial introducing the
Macintosh Computer

(^..^)

♥

A long way back

2011-07-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

For some weeks now I have been wanting to post, even starting to write one back in May, only not to finish and so fail. With each passing day I became more guilty and tonight Ms K and I, each agreed that enough is enough. Even though I have been very busy and productive, first news about Ms K, then about my long way back.

Ms K napping on the living room couch as the last of the days sunlight

reflects off the neighbors house into the room

We here in Northern California experienced a long winter with a couple of days when temperatures reached the triple digits. There was even a good rain storm end of June, all of which contributed to Ms K sleeping and napping more than twenty hours. There were only a few days in five months in which Ms K actually went into the garden, joining me while I tended to the plants.

Ms K hiding behind the balconies railing, being vigilant about her territory

Ms K is a senior feline, taking it easy in her golden years; no longer stalking our feathered friends or chasing a leaf thumbing on the ground. Her activities are now minimal and so there is little to report, unlike with a younger feline, especially when I see other followers blog daily posts. So at times I have not been sure if I could continue this blog, even though my heart wants to. Ms K has been an important part of my life and she continues to be, so I will continue maintaining this blog.

If you wish to print out this set, make sure to click here

in order to download the full size version

At one of my other blogs where I just posted this quarters calendar bookmarks, I also wrote about ‘Where does the time go.’ As for the third-quarter feline calendar, please except my apologies that it did not occur this quarter, it will be resumed at a later date still to be announced.

I guess when one is occupied creating art, preparing for a lecture or an appointment with the directory of a gallery made three months before, only to discover upon arriving, they decided to close the gallery two days prior; welt least I have a good collection with which to approach another gallery or making it available on-line for purchase.

A small sampling of the art I created these passed three months

These passed months, work began on a series of thirty-six small paintings—on hold at the moment—then preparing for a PowerPoint presentation, which was given to the El Cerrito Art Association,

or designing and building blogs for clients, I had my hands full, burning the candle at both ends. It felt like having been touched by a Muse and riding a high wave that now has been physically draining.

‘Travels of the Imagination’ Close-up of drawing a map

In the midst of all the creativity there came another idea, bringing back my childhood years, when I drew imaginary maps containing buried pirates treasure, only now they are are more grown-up, resembling possible landmarks.

‘Travels of the Imagination’ in progress of being reassembled

When one of these maps are completed I take a deep breath and start cutting the illustration into one inch squares, which are then carefully reassembled in a random order, making sure that each piece connects to the one next to it in some special and meaningful manner.

After having participated in my first art fair this July 4 and yesterday dropping off a painting for my first juried exhibition, my plate is still full. Though low on energy by now, Ms K’s continued presence by my side when I work, is something I treasure, for it is priceless.

Ms K

I had hoped to share another picture of Ms K, sitting comfortable on a chair next to me in the kitchen, it has to wait till next time. Here is another one taken from the balcony where Ms. K likes to be in the late afternoon, soaking up a few of the last sun rays.

(^..^)

♥

Holocaust Remembrance Day

2011-05-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 30 at sunset, according to the Jewish calendar was the beginning of the observation of 2011 Holocaust Remembrance Day, while officially on Sunday, May 1, it was observed by all others. In light of this somber reflection I wish to share a painting I completed in May 2008 in response to the ‘German Question’ and my thoughts about the Holocaust.

Remembrance, May 2008

MM/C 24 x 24” inches

During the process of this painting it was first known as “The German Question,” upon the completion the painting was named “Remembrance.” Briefly I had considered “Absence of History,” a title my son had suggested and a title I am reserving for another canvas.

Please light a candle in honor of Remembrance Day

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum - frequently asked questions

The next Holocaust Remembrance Day will begin at sunset on April 18, 2012 for the Jewish people and observed by others on Thursday, April 19.

(^..^)

♥

Celebrating a royal wedding with a cake

2011-04-30T00:05:00.000-07:00

In honor of the occasion of the event in England, I set out to bake a Bunt cake, shaped in a crown for my British neighbor Valerie, who was hosting a brunch for some of the ladies in the area.

Decorated with Borage flowers

bow and ribbon to emulate Kate’s veil and train

Unfortunately I was unable to photograph Valerie’s beautiful table setting as I had a cardiologist appointment and when I was there not all the food was set up. Nevertheless I can tell you that there was a portrait of William and Kate just below the flower arrangement. A beautiful light and airy fabric cascaded down from the elevated flower arrangement, creating wonderful hills and valleys. In between the rolling material was set a typical British silver tea service and dishes.

Photo by Valerie

Valerie honored me by having reserved the center of the table for my cake, that too was elevated by a glass pedestal. I had also dropped of a plate of mini blueberry muffins, decorated by two different Dutch irises, a number of Borge and yellow Daisy flowers.

I hope that you all had a great time sharing the event with friends as we have so little to celebrate these days.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Catherine

Hugo Burnand/Clarence House/PA/Landov

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with attendants and then with families

Hugo Burnand / Clarence House / PA / Landov

The recipe

8 tbsp./40 oz. unsalted butter

1 cup of sugar

4 large organic brown eggs

3 1/2 cups of flour

1 1/2 cups of firm Greek yogurt

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

2 tsp. orange extract

2 tsp. vanilla extract

3/4 cup dried apricots - diced

3/4 cup yellow raisins

3/4 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans, cut into small pieces

So you though I would not show face?

Somebody has to tell you how to make the cake!

Directions

On a large dish or medium bowl mix the apricots, raisins, cranberries and pecans, then dust with flower to prevent them from sining to the bottom during baking
Mix the soft butter with sugar until well blended
Add one egg at a time and blend
Add orange and vanilla extract and briefly blend
Slowly add the flour with the mixer at low to medium speed. After half of the flower has been added, add the yogurt and mix, then resume adding the remaining flour. If the dough feels to thick and not elastic enough, add a dash of milk.
Using a spatula, fold in the dried fruit and nut mixture until well distributed. Do not use the hand blender or mixer for this step.
Now add the mixture to a Bunt pan that was buttered and dusted with flour.
In a preheated oven set to 350° degrees, set the cake mold in the center of the oven. Check after 45 minutes by inserting a toothpick or cake needle. Cake usually takes 50-60 minutes to bake.

Enjoy

(^..^)

♥

The winners to our calendar bookmarks

2011-04-06T00:05:00.000-07:00

Can you tell I am upset with dad?

I know, dad lost all track of time, he has just too many irons in the fire and I had to show dad my sharp and long nails today since I cannot crack a whip like humans. I guess he got the message as here he finally gets around to presenting the second quarter winners to the calendar bookmark contest.

So this evening dad made his selection and then imported each digital file into PhotoShop for the usual cropping, but also making any refinements to the image like adjusting the level, curves and any colour corrections. So without any further delay, here is the spring calendar winners.

Quincy

For the month of April we have Michelle’s cat Quincy starting off the Spring Quarter. Quincy who had just a birthday two weeks ago, which he had celebrated in a grand style with everyone in attendance. You should be forewarned that visiting Michelle’s blog Chocolate and Marmalade Tea, because it has something even for humans, they are called delicious recipes and wonderful stories, including lots of illustrations from the 1950’s on the sidebar. So drop by and see Quincy’s birthday bash.

Oh before I forget, Michelle had also sent some pictures of Quincy that were Black & White and since dad loves Black & White photographs, we will be making it an options from now on. Thank you my dear for suggesting it.

Neytiri

One picture above all stood out this time, it came from Ms K in Canada, who had everything going for her when she took a picture of Neytiri. There were a few others of Neytiri, but what I particularly liked about this one, was the pose and especially the over all tonal qualities of light, the surroundings and of course Neytiri herself, who was made up to be the princess she is. Some of you may recognize the name Neytiri from the movie Avatar and I think it is very fitting indeed.

Neytiri shares her spot with Canadian Num-Num Fund director Clooney, who is a real ham and loves to pose for the camera in all sorts of costumes and situations. Neytiri has been keeping a close eye on Clooney as she herself begins to carve out her own acting road to stardom. So drop on by and see what the two of them are up at Clooney’s Num-Num Fund and I guarantee you will stay awhile as Ms. K does some very imaginative writing to go along with the interesting pictures.

Maui

Making a second appearance is Katnip Lounge, but only after giving everyone else who was not a previous winner a shot at the spring quarter. However Trish made a strong showing with Maui, or is it that Maui made a strong showing?

Since Trish had entered five images, the other ones were of Sylvester and Felix, but Maui beat them both, especially with a very shy look, while appearing to be deep in contemplation about something very important. Dad loved seeing Maui being photographed with the camera lens wide open, since it made the background very much out of focus and gave the fur a special touch. Of course we should also mention that the exceptional mustache helped get the extra vote that pushed Maui into the June slot.

So here are the three pictures assembled into the final print version and remember to get the full size version, you have to click on the link beneath the picture, which well then take you to our Picasa ‘Freebie’ album.

To download the PRINTER version, click here

In closing we just wanted to add that for those of you who did not make it to please try again. Ms K tried real hard and succeeded with Neytiri and so can you. Now I know it is somewhat difficult for many of you to photograph your feline in a vertical format, since a number of you sent in pictures framed horizontally. Michelle’s picture of Quinn I was able to crop and achieve a vertical format, but only because it was large enough.

However with 2012, I am going to make it easier on everyone by redesigning the calendar bookmarks with a horizontal format, in the hope that this will attract more participants to the contest. Still I wish for those individuals who did not enter but have thought of it will do so, as now is your chance because better weather is on it’s way, providing more opportunities for you to capture that shoot that just may secure a spot on the next six openings.

Thank you to all those who have entered, Miss Kitty and I have appreciated your participation.

(^..^)

♥

Where does the time go

2011-03-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

Where o’ where does the time go, for it seems only a few years ago that MIss Kitty was a little kitten, but now she is eighteen years of age, or is she. It appears there is a difference of opinions in this family and I am good at religion but poor in math; German proverb. So how old is Miss Kitty then?

According to my daughter, who is nineteen and not twenty, but in her second year at UCSC, coming home every two weeks or so for groceries, some gas and pocket money, a little studying and then catching up with friends; in other words, life in the fast lane; corrected me in saying that she was three when we adopted Miss Kitty.

Now that would make Miss Kitty sixteen, not the eighteen I have been boosting, yet since her birthday comes first before my daughter, that would make her seventeen, which is still an achievement and making MIss Kitty the madam matriarch of the family in human years. So I apologize for my mathematical error to you and Ms K, hoping she will forgive me.

Ms K by the dinning room window

As for her birthday, which we did celebrated with her, Ms K was camera shy and even if I could have possible obtained a picture, the lighting would have been poor since we were in another storm, just like the one we have been having for more than twenty-four hours with no end in sight until a break this coming Sunday.

As for gifts, well, she has about everything a feline her age could want, besides she would rather have the person attention from me, especially in the morning when we cuddle close and I give her body messages and belly rubs that are followed by a facial rub, all of which she takes in with great pleasure.

from Kerstin and her felines Finchen and Ayla

On the day of Ms K’s birthday, a beautiful card made by Kerstin arrived from Germany. It certainly was a surprise for her as well as for dad. We wish that we were not separated by and ocean and a continent, for we would love to visit them or have them visit us. We both thank you for your thoughtfulness and heartfelt words that accompanied your art work and which have touched us very deeply.

Finchen and Alya in the forground (photo Kerstin)

Please have a visit to Kerstin’s blog ‘Finchens Katzenblog,’ which has the current post Fincehen out in the garden, checking out and smelling the various colored crocus flowers and inspecting the pots with seedlings to see if anything was happening. When you drop in to have a look, don’t be afraid because the blog is in German, since all you have to is click on Google translate.

Birthday Card from Lutzia

In the mail came another birthday card for MS K. This one from Lutzi, who also resides in Germany. Though she does not have a cat personally, Lutzia is very fond of all living creatures, as this is reflected in her paintings and photography, which can be viewed on her blog, “Lutzias-Art.”

The bird that is pictured in her card is one that regularly comes to her feeders and though Ms K no longer chases birds, she does loves to watch them. She especially likes the colourations of this feathered creature.

Now I should add that it was very easy to miss, but you know dad is a real hawk, examining everything very carefully when he noticed that the stamps were carefully selected to send another message. For the stamp on the right contains a message, “Sending good wishes,” that alone brought an even greater smile, to an already big one. Thank you my dear for your gift of friendship.

First attempt in oil

Now I could end here but a few months ago, Lutzia asked if I could make available some photographs of Ms K as a source and reference to paint her portrait. We made available in Picasa a folder with numerous images for her. The months passed by quickly but then in an email came a surprise that knocked dad’s socks off. The first two portraits of Ms. K.

Second version, also in oil

We could not believe how very well Lutzia captured Ms K’s expression and especially her colourations in the second version. Lutzia said she might try again and in a few weeks she surprised us once more.

Acrylic version

This time she decided to work in Acrylic since it afforded her certain options that resulted in stunning replication of Ms K’s fur. I mean it is so realistic looking, that one can almost feel its soft and silky texture. You are certainly a superb artist Lutzia!

Digital manipulation

With the acrylic image came also one in which she did a photo manipulation, expressing her visual creativity in another form and manner.

Thank you dear friend for sharing your creativity, art and friendship with us. You too have touched our hearts with your love and kindness.

As we bring this post to a close, we did wish to add we have received some wonderful photographs from those who have entered our photo contest and that the winners will be posted shortly. Finally, dad has been under the weather for almost three weeks and just yesterday we learned that the nausea, dizziness, faintness and just feeling down right awful has been do to the changes in the medications, which are being partly stopped so they can leave his system.

(^..^)

♥

A painting, an award—life is good

2011-03-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

It seems we have disappeared once again and it is not al his fault. With the weather being so cold and because we have had also a lot of rain, I have been hibernating like some bear in a cave up in the high Sierra’s, only my cave is a fur house. It has not only been keeping warm, it has me sleeping in their at time for more than ten hours at a time, only coming out for some nibbles of food and you know, sandbox business.

Are you aware that I am turning eighteen this month and as we get older, we are no longer into playing games or much of any other activities, so I cannot blame dad, even though he too contributed to our absence.

Some of you may know that dad is an artist and because last year most of his time was spent in cardiovascular rehabilitation, he has not painted, that is for almost two years. For him art is his life, it is what he lives for and though things are still a daily struggle, he had a surge of creativity that just needed to be harnessed.

Canvas size: 36x48” inches

So here you see dad is painting in the kitchen that is his make-shift studio. He is applying a gesso ground to the surface of the canvas, so that it can receive various white and buff colored acrylic paint, which was then followed with oil paints.

White on White

You may be wondering what it is to represent or what the materials are. Dad has been working on a photographic series since 2005, in which he photographed telephone poles in the city of Berkeley, California. Poles that were covered with thick layers of fliers and staples, which had been torn off before new ones were being added, a process that has taken years. Dad’s last two posts at his other blog, The Artist Within Us, shows images from the series he has named “Typography Graveyard.”

As for the materials, well to recreate on a large scale these torn little pieces of paper, dad used grocery paper shopping bags. Their stronger construction made it an ideal choice and once several layers of medium gel had been applied to both sides and then painted, the forms took on a more solid state of form. Dad’s been happy with the results, especially with the soft variations of whites.

Recently we were the recipients of an award from Mumsy, Chancy and Co. and earlier this evening we wrote our apologies to Mumsy for having taken so long to acknowledge their gracious gift. We hope you can forgive us.

Now Mumsy, Chancy and Co. became followers of our blog this year and though one might say we are new friends, a visit to their blog will have you feeling very quickly like old comfortable friends one has known for years. So won’t you drop in on them if and make a new friend.

Now the award comes with two request, to share seven things you may not know about me, Miss Kitty that is and to pass the award along to fifteen others. Now by now you know that dad restricts new recipients to three, so that there is some elevation of pride with the award. So here is our list to whom we wish to bestow the ward to:

Katnip Lounge and their baker dozen of felines in their cabana. Many of you already know Tricia and her many adoring feline companies who live a life of luxury. Her photographs are just wonderful and earlier this year, one of her cats graced our calendar bookmarks.

Clooney’s Num-Num Fund is another sight that one just cannot get enough of. Her writings are hilarious and the accompanying pictures a riot. You have got to stop on by.

Gwundergarten, Alexandra’s bilingual blog, so you have no excuse not to visit. Her cat Noah makes several appearance but also shares the site for other very interesting things and right now Alexandra is showing some beautiful photographs of flowers while Noah (who also appeared on out bookmark calendars) is supervising her.

Seven things you may not know about me. Let see now, what can I share that is not embarrassing or a sworn secrete.

I have my birthday is coming up this month, even though we do not know the exact date, we all settled on the 15th
I am patient but persistent, especially when I am hungry and it is not dinner time
When big sister is away at USC, I really miss her and cannot wait for her return
Getting use to strangers, especially when they are friends of big brother and sister
When it comes to food, I am very picky
In the morning, while I lay on the bed and dad gives me belly rubs, I am in heaven
Watching television while being on dad’s lap is being the center of attention

———

It is that time of year again

As we bring this post to a close, a quick reminder that there is still some time left to enter our calendar bookmark photo competition and if you can help spread the word among your friends that would be great—just keep in mind the guidelines & requirements. We greatly appreciate the assistance.

Second Quarter Photo Competition

2011-02-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again in which Miss Kitty will select the next set of winners for the second quarter calendar bookmarks. So you have thirty days to get your images to us, so you will have plenty of time to get that image which becomes totally irresistible.

The winners for the first quarter

The previous photo competition went very well and now we are back to fill the slots for month April, May and June. Since I would like everyone to participate, especially the shy ones, please read my suggestions in order to improve your changes. I have also reposted the finalists of the first quarter to serve as a guide in what was selected from those that I felt made the cut. Above all, keep in mind the format that the winning images are being inserted to.

The previous finalists

When you judge your own photographs prior to submission, I would like to to look at them with a critical eye, checking for good lighting, that there are no highlights that are not without detail and that the feline pictured is engaging with the photographer. Of greatest importance is lighting and inmost cases I prefer indirect daylight since shadows are softer. A lamp creates a harsh shadow, an area with virtually no detail. Apart from lighting, consider also the composition of the photo, as it can be the difference of making it into the finals or not.

Requirements to qualify

1: you can submit up to 5 digital images

2: Image orientation: vertical preferred

(if our photo is horizontal we need to be able to crop it vertical

3: Formats accepted: JPG (extra fine setting-highest resolution), TIFF or RAW

4: PLease do not crop your picture

5: Image size: 2000 x 3000 pixels (5 MB plus) preferred

6: Last day to submit: Midnight on March 22, 2011

7: Be a follower of this blog

Do not forget to include

1: Your name and the name of your feline

2: A link to your blog

3: Please place Photo Competition in the subject line of the email

Now let us not forget the legal matters

By submitting your images, you allow the winning entries to used by a Cats Golden Years 'one time only' for the sole purpose they were intended, the Miss Kitty 2011 Calendar Bookmarks, otherwise the photographer retains all other rights.

You also allow us crop the image and to use any Photoshop enhancements tools as we see fit.

Availability of the calendar bookmarks

The final design with the winning images will be made available in the last week of March for download from our Picasa album via a link so that it can be printed out on your colour printer in full resolution onto 8 .5 x 11 inches card stock.

For submissions or any questions, please click here

Wishing you all good luck!

Huggs and kisses

2011-02-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Wishing all my furry friends and their humans

a wonderful Happy Valentine Day

Huggs and kisses

Ms K

(^..^)

♥

An Egyptian bronze cat

2011-02-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

Some of you may know that I have a number of other blogs dealing with art and almost on a daily bases spending time researching the various news sources for interesting articles to share on Twitter. Since Miss K has her own Twitter account (MsKittyvanDyck), I have started recently researching ‘cats in the news,’ when I came across the following story about an Egyptian bronze cat that I would like to share with you.

The article appeared in ARTdaily and is copied in full without changes:

This charming hollow cast bronze cat is shown alert, sitting upright with the tail curled to the right side. Estimate: £15,000 to £20,000. Photo: Bonhams.

LONDON.- Bonhams sale of Antiquities on April 13 includes a beautiful but inscrutable Egyptian cat cast in bronze, with gold earrings, that dates from circa 664-32BC estimated to sell for £15,000 to £20,000.

This charming hollow cast bronze cat is shown alert, sitting upright with the tail curled to the right side, the body with stippled surface, wearing a Bes-headed pectoral suspended on a cord and original gold earrings. It has beautiful well-defined features with recessed eyes and incised whiskers. The feline comes from a private Swiss collection. Bought in New York in 1958. With copies of accompanying collection notes.

Photo: Bonhams.

Such cats are images of the cat goddess Bastet and were often placed on the top of bronze boxes containing mummified cats.

Madeleine Perridge, Head of Antiquities at Bonhams comments: “This is a wonderfully striking cat with beautifully defined features, particularly the finely incised detail of the fur and the delightful original gold earrings. Considering that it is more than 2,000 years old, it is in excellent condition. In fact you could say that this cat for all its great age, has still not outlived its nine lives.”

Praised for controlling vermin which could be a threat to the harvest, Egyptian nobles of the New Kingdom period would also take cats on bird-hunting expeditions. By the Graeco-Roman period, cats as the personification of the goddess Bastet, were deemed to be sacred animals and it was forbidden to remove them from Egypt.

The cat goddess Bastet eventually replaced the cult of Mafdet, a lion-headed goddess. Bastet's image softened over time and she became the deity representing protection, fertility and motherhood.

As a revered animal important to Egyptian society and religion, cats like humans, were also mummified. Mummified cats were given as an offering to Bastet. In 1888, an Egyptian farmer uncovered a large tomb with mummified cats and kittens. This discovery outside the town of Beni Hasan had eighty-thousand cat mummies, dating to 1000-2000 BCE.

— — —

If you have enjoyed this or the one on our previous post, then please check out tweets on the sidebar as we regularly post to Tweeter with any interesting news about felines on a variety of subject matter. If you have a Tweeter account, you may also wish to follow Miss Kitty.

Enjoy your Sunday and don’t forget

the calendar photo contest is coming up

A Stylish Award

2011-02-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

Angel and 6 Garden Cottage Cats masthead

Several days ago we received a Stylish Blogger Award from Angel who’s blog 6 Garden Cottage Cats is one you should see, as it is filled with wonderful graphics and a lovely soundtrack in the background, making you want to stay and not leave. Thank you so very much for this award.

We understand the award comes with certain requirements and that we need to tell you seven things about us and then pass it along. Since we had established with our first award to cut the number of new recipients, we will do so again, thereby restoring value and honor to the award by limiting the nominees. We decided to keep it to three, like in the Olympics.

So we are bestowing this award to:

Animal Shelter Volunteer Life blog reflects so going on’s at PAWS, a privately funded, non-profit, no-kill shelter located in Norwalk, CT. The volunteers work very hard taking care of felines and trying to find forever homes. Please do drop in as they also have wonderful news to share today.

Our other winner is Cats of Wildcat Woods, who have a farmhouse in the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina and when they moved in, they also inherited a number of feral cats. Since then they have been very involved with the community, reusing cats and helping them find forever homes.

We thought of presenting you, the reader with a blog that was a bit different, Chocolate and Marmalade Tea is just that. Now Michelle, the writer of the blog not only shares some stories of her cats Mocha and Emma—who are darlings and one cannot help but fall in love with them—but she is an old fashioned girl trying to keep up with the modern world. Between blogging, creating some art and also going horseback riding, she keeps very busy baking and sharing those wonderful recipes with us and who cannot have enough recipes in their book, so do drop in and make friends.

Now the Stylish Blogger Award asks the receiver to share seven things with my followers, seven things they may not be aware of.

1: Miss Kitty’s name originally was Painted Lady, but family members called her simply kitty. So when this blog was created we agreed her name would be Miss Kitty van Dyck.

2: Though I get pampered by dad, I have scratched him a few times, now he wears several scars to remind him of me. When I did this, I was much younger.

3: While on the subject of age, I am seventeen years and ten months old. Because I was a very young feral, only a few weeks old we can only guess that it was either February or March that I was born, but I have been with the family since May of the same year.

4: I used to be a very good mouse catcher and when I ate my catch, I always left behind the liver. Do any of you felines do this?

5: Two years ago I was attacked by a dog and since then I no longer go outside alone. So whenever dad goes to work in the garden he takes me out and we keep each other company.

6: Here are two things about dad; he had an industrial accident in 2002, which took four and a half years to recover, has survived cancer in 2004 and open-heart triple by-pass surgery in 2006. Unfortunately one of the grafts failed eighteen months later and this has effected how much and what he can do in a day. Unfortunately he remains unemployed since 2003 and the economy is not helping.

7: Dad was a graphic designer and commercial advertising photographer and in 2000 decided it is time for a vacation, never having on in those twenty-seven years. So he decided to follow his childhood dream and start painting.

———

Before bringing this post to a close I wish to share this article I found on-line from NewsTeam, UK yesterday that was posted at NewsLite.TV that I wish to share with you. Instead of rewriting it, I am copying over the text as it appeared.

Pamela Cole with some of her collection (photo: L Looi/NewsTeam UK)

Feline fanatic collects thousands of ceramic cats

February 2, 2011 3:00 PM - News Team UK

A feline fanatic has spent the last 60 years amassing a bizarre collection of over 2,000 ceramic cats… and she won't stop until it's purr-fect.

Pamela Cole, 60, from Birmingham, England, has been collecting the cats since the late 1940s, after her mother gave her a replica of a beloved kitten. The collection, is thought to be worth over £50,000 ($68,000 US Dollar), contains ornaments worth anything from 10p to over £1,000 ($1,300) and she even has one cat dating back to 600BC.

Pam, who now has a staggering 2,222 cats of varying shapes and sizes, says she keeps them in her spare bedroom and has stopped anyone sleeping in there. But despite already being short of space to display them, she said she can't wait to get her paws on more.

Speaking of her collection Pamela said: "I really do have them from all over the world, and I've bought them in china shops, toy shops, antiques shops, at craft fairs, antiques fairs and on eBay.

"I try to get them as different as possible, and I have them from every continent."

Enjoy the weekend and

don’t forget the calendar bookmark photo contest is coming up.

Bird watching with dad

2011-01-31T00:01:00.000-08:00

For a couple of days there was a break in the weather and we experienced temperatures we normally have mid-August, but all that has changed since. Now the skies are grey and everything outside is wet, however last Thursday it was so nice that dad and I were spending a good portion of the day birdwatching.

So here I am, resting comfortably on my pillow throne, partially hidden from view of the birds behind the azaleas, watching the entertainment occurring in the tree where dad placed all the bird feeders.

Very often a number of birds come real close to the window to check out the plants before heading back to the feeders.

Somehow they never see me as I remain ever so still, besides even if I could catch a bird, I no longer do, having given up the practice a couple of years ago. I guess dad likes that very much since he keeps feeding these flying creatures all year.

In the meantime dad was occupied setting up the tripod in the doorway of the kitchen since it is directly opposite the tree and as the day progressed dad did his best to photograph the various birds visiting our garden.

It was still early morning with a soft light when a sparrow landed on one of the upper branches, inspecting the sanctuary where others were feeding before joining.

Dad does his best to identify these beautiful visitors but mostly he simply enjoys their presence and song.

Dad was never sure of this birds name so he ace it one. He simply calls it ‘Hooded Monk’. What do you think?

Nuttall’s Woodpecker

The past eleven years that we have lived here, their have been visits from a woodpecker now and then, but this year we have been blessed with the continued presence of not one but three woodpeckers. Two males and one female coming regular to feed. We also hear them peeking on the tree trunks, before and after feeding on suet, nuts and seeds.

Whenever dad sees one arriving, he announces it to anyone in the household. It is a big ‘thing,’ especially when one considers that according to American Indian legend, a woodpecker is to be the bearer of good luck.

Pygmy Nuthatch

This is one of the smaller birds and only once did dad see two of them at the same time, so it is not as common as some of our other visitors. It was not until dad brought the picture up on the computer screen that he noticed the Pygmy Nuthatch’s back was not grey, but a grey-blue with emphasis on the blue.

Once the sun passes further to the West, descending behind the trees, our visitors are few and far between. Tomorrow the entertainment will be repeat, regardless of the weather, but since the skies were grey, I was sleeping in my fur house.

Audubon Website

The Cornel Lab of Ornithology Website

With our next post we will share some news we received from Angel and six garden cats a few days ago. If you have not been visited her blog, please do pop in and have a look and meet her feline companions.

Before closing a quick couple of notes, we want to let you know that with our next posting we will be providing information as to the second quarter Calendar Bookmark Photo Contest. Also from now on we will respond to your posts directly with a post since so many of you do not show your email address. So you may wish to check the email follow-up box.

Wishing you all a wonderful start to the week.

Far too long

2011-01-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, indeed it has been far too long since I not only posted but also visited your blogs. After some prodding from Catrina (Cat’s Cat) and Kevin (Animal Shelter Volunteer Life), keeping silent was no longer an option, besides it was just Wednesday when I was finally obtained a picture of Miss Kitty.

The last several weeks the weather in general has left its mark throughout the United States and even now another storm is making its way through the north-east, while here in northern California we have been experiencing these couple of days blue skies, but also very cold nights.

Granted there is no snow by our front door as in other parts of the country, it was cold enough to warrant me bringing in some wood and having a fire.

Now normally I would sit in front of the fire in order to tend it and Miss Kitty would nestle in between my legs or cuddle on my lap, making herself comfortable so she too could enjoy the fires warmth. However this time Miss Kitty decided to have it all to herself by laying claim to the spot in front of the fire, showing no signs of fear of any ambers jettisoning at her. This was a first for her.

The next day the sun came back and there was blue sky to be had. Since it was green recycling container the next day, it signaled an excursion into t he backyard for some cleaning up. Miss Kitty took the opportunity not only to soak up some sun rays but also supervise me from the balcony.

If you have not claimed your first quarter calendar bookmarks with the winners of the photo contest, click on the word link, which will take you directly to the full size printer version for download. Now we will be off to visit your blogs and see what you all have been up to.

Enjoy the weekend.

Your 2011 Calendar has arrived!

2010-12-24T23:01:00.000-08:00

“You know dad, you lost track of time again. Decorations around the house, then last night sending out individual Christmas emails and now you are twenty-three hours late posting the final printer version of my calendar bookmarks. You had promised that you would do it Christmas Eve, so what do you have to say for yourself? Typical, no response, just a dumb founded look on his face! Did you at least get me something for Christmas?”

“So now you think a nice dinner, followed by a scalp message and a tummy rub is going to make up for your blunder . . . well . . . I guess so, but you better work fast, there are less than three hours remaining before Christmas Day starts here on the Pacific Coast.”

Wishing all creatures, great or small, including humans,

good tidings this holiday season. May your home be filled

with the warmth of laughter, the company of family and

good friends, sharing food and love.

We requested from the humans that each winning feline have a few words written about them to accompany their individual picture and without further delay Alexandra writes not only in English but also for her German speaking audience.

Noah

One day Noah just came out of the woods. For days he sneaked around in our garden and stole our old cat lady Jazz’s food from her bowl. It was impossible to get even a few steps close or to even touch him and due to his behavior, we believed he did not have a home. We asked around in the neighborhood but nobody know him, so we started to feed him. Through the feeding we managed to gain his confidence. Step after step we were allowed to approach closer, until the day (after 2 month, I will never forget it) when I managed to touch him. At this time it was just as if a dam had broken, he couldn't get enough of being stroking. Finally we managed to cage him and bring him to the animal doctor to see whether he was wearing a chip to see if he belonged to someone or not. We contacted animal welfare in case his owner might be looking for him, but nobody called and at the end we decided to adopt and give him a home. Since he has rewarded us with an incredible amount of love. He's a clown who likes to play hide-and-seek or catch, he comes along when we're clapping in our hands but he also likes just to take a nap on the knees of his humans. Noah has helped us over the difficult time when we had to let go our old cat lady Jazz when she crossed over the rainbow bridge. With his humor and his nonsense he made us laugh wiping away our tears. He's really a special guy.

Noah kam einiges Tages aus dem Wald, schlich tagelang in unserem Garten herum, klaute der alten Katzendame Jazz ihr Futter, berühren oder gar ein paar Schritte auf ihn zugehen konnte man nicht. Sein Verhalten liess uns vermuten, dass er kein Zuhause hatte. Wir haben in der Nachbarschaft herum gefragt und schliesslich begonnen ihn zu füttern. Durch die Fütterung gewannen wir wohl sein Vertrauen. Schritt um Schritt durften wir näher an ihn heran, bis wir ihn endlich berühren durften und dann schien wie ein Damm gebrochen, er konnte vom Streicheln nicht genug bekommen und kroch fast in einem hinein. Wir konnten ihn schliesslich einfangen und brachten ihm zum Tierarzt um sicher zu sein, dass er nicht doch einen Chip trug und jemandem gehörte. Auch eine Ausschreibung beim Tierschutz liess seine Besitzer nicht auftauchen, so haben wir ihn schlussendlich adoptiert und er dankt es uns mit unglaublich viel Liebe. Er ist ein kleiner Clown, mit dem man Verstecken und Fangen spielen kann, der auf Klatschen angerannt kommt, Männchen macht, einfach zufrieden bei seinen Menschen sich für ein Schläfchen einkugeln kann und schlicht und ergreifend zum Knuddeln ist. Noah hat uns aber auch sehr geholfen, als wir unsere alte Katze Jazz erlösen mussten. Mit seinem Kabriolen und seinem Humor hat er uns das Lachen zurück gebracht. Er ist ein ganz besonderer Typ.

Tiny Johnson, also referred to as Johnny

His human mum Trish writes:

Sweet Johnny; a gentle, giant, twenty-pound tabby with the world's most petite "meow".

You are the peacemaker in the house, the big bed warmer, and you eat absolutely anything, at least once.

Nothing makes you happier than your squeaky mouse, unless it's a tummy rub.

Just a tiny bit cross-eyed, you prefer you mighty paws on the floor, no heights for you . . .

unless it's to be picked up for a nice cuddle.

Mr Puddy

When you look at the picture of Mr Puddy you can understand when his mum writes only a few words:

Mr Puddy is an Aussie Cat who chose a forever home by himself.

For downloadable PRINTER version, click here and enjoy

So lets have a round of an applause for not only the winners but also for all those who had entered.

Very soon we will announce part two of the calendar photo contest for the months of April, May and June. So get those trigger fingers active by taking pictures, as we know you love doing this, just remember large file size and if possible vertical format and make sure everyone is having a good time.

We would also like to welcome and acknowledge several new followers to our blog

Sondra, a blogger with multiple excellent blogs, is a friend of dad's and when you have a look at her sites, there is something familiar about the blogs background, they're dad's textures.

Eva Macie, also an artist friend of dads; her blog A Creative Life is where she shares her art and artistic process.

Luna and Luzie, a blog featuring three cats and you should know it is bi-lingual. Now is that not great! By the way, Luna and Luzie, dad is aware he has yet to press the ‘follower’ button on your blog and said he promises to do so.

Then there is The Old Geezer, yap, that’s what he calls himself. We love his quote on his masthead, it reads “Old age ain’t for sissies! — Do not resent growing old . . . Many are denied the privilege.”

Over at Margarida e os Animals from Portugal, her latest post is of a deer grooming a cat and then the cat returning the favor. A must see to believe.

Caren Gittleman and Piras sadly do not have a link back to their blogs so that we can learn more about them or even join their site. So if you are reading this, please send us an email with your link and we will be most happy that you did so.

May I have not forgotten to mention anyone else.

I hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday season and that all the felines found extra treats and extra helping of good food in their bowls, besides lots of loving. See you in January 2011.

Now I can take a much needed long nap.

The winners are . . .

2010-12-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Miss Kitty announces the winners . . .

with today’s posting for the first quarter of 2011 Calendar Bookmark Photo Contest, along with the three whom we have chosen to receive the ‘One lovely blog award.’

For those who are interested in the statistics, there were nine entrees with twenty-six images, of which nine made the final cut.

Finalist poster

The decision was by no means easy and so a set of criteria was established and applied by which each photograph was judged. The ‘finalist’ images were imported into Photoshop and according to the photograph, may have had applied some retouching; burning and dodging; blurring of the background; and any other visual adjustments we felt would enhance the photograph.

After post production and cropping the photograph down to the required size, it was placed on the ‘finalist poster’ and then the judging began in earnest.

There were four photographs, that came very close to winning. Image two, of Susie was sent in by Kevin from Animal Shelter Volunteer Life — PAWS; KM provided several wonderful poses of George Clooney from Clooney’s Num-Num Fund, image four.

From Spain, photo five comes courtesy of Isabel Gutierrz’s feline Lili, an artist who also blogs about her cat at Espacio y Color; last but certainly not least, image nine was sent in by Victoria and features Lucy taking in her sun-puddles. Her blog is Lucy’s Christmas Lodge.

When we announce the competition open for the second quarter, we shall provide a guideline to help improve your odds for not only making the finals, but increasing your chances of winning. Of course that would make our job even harder, but Miss Kitty and I will be up to the task.

The Winners . . . congratulations!

January, Noah by Alexandra from Switzerland

February, Tiny Johnson by Tricia at Katnip Lounge, USA

March, Mr Puddy by BN from Australia

Preview of the placements of the winning images

The final downloadable version will be made available on Christmas Eve with a link to the full size print at our Picasa album along with a couple of tidbits about each winner.

The Recipients for the ‘One lovely blog award’ are . . .

Christiane’s blog Ninifees DosiNews from Germany, was elected for her excellent blog and rich photographic images, including for having a huge heart, taking care of many strays and trying to find a very good home for them. Her blog has Google translator widget installed so you can read along.

Catrina’s blog Cat’s Cat from Canada, whom many of you know is another person with a gracious spirit and a huge heart. Her love is over flowing with kindness.

KM’s blog Clooney’s Num-Num Fund also from Canada. She recently brought home her second feline, named Neytiri, named after the main female character in last years blockbuster film Avatar. When you visit there, you cannot help but find humor by the truck load, so stop by for a visit.

Thought there were many more I could have passed this award along to, but as I stated in my previous post, by limiting the number of recipients, the meaning and value of this award is greatly increased.

Wow, this was one long posting. Time for another nap. Make that a very long nap.

An exciting day it was

2010-12-02T00:05:00.000-08:00

Each morning before getting out of bed, dad quickly checks his emails on the phone. There was a message in German from Alexandra in Switzerland, letting him know there was something for him at her blog.

In the meantime he had breakfast and I had my morning snack, which was followed by a visit to the garden since there was no frost outside like the last previous days. It was still rather cold but the morning’s golden light that came skittering across the hills ridge and rooftops was a little warming when it finally landed upon me.

For now the days will be few for going outside until winter reaches its zenith and then it will be still several more weeks before the temperatures begin to rise again.

Cory Cat Blog—Society of Feline Gardeners

When I came back in, dad was also finished with breakfast and together we went back upstairs to the computer. Dad was clueless because he did not check until now what it was Alexandra had in store for us.

With great excitement dad told me all about the award I had received. I quickly had to inspect the monitor and see for myself.

Thank you Alexandra

Since the award comes with a condition that it should be passed along, dad and I had a long discussion as to restoring value and honor to the award by following Alexandra’s example of limiting the nominees. We decided to keep it to three, like in the Olympics. Since there are a number of blogs we are considering, we will release the winners for the ‘One Lovely Blog Award’ with our next post.

Alexandra has a wonderful blog, she not only talks about her cat, but also of per passion for gardening and decorating the house for the holiday season. She also does volunteer work at the local animal shelter, taking exceptional photographs of the animals in need of a home. I enjoy visiting her site to see what she is up to and I am never disappointed.

a rose from Alexandra’s blog Gwundergarten

So please visit her blog Gwundergarten and you will be surprised on several levels. As I already mentioned, her blog is diverse with varied interests and you do not have to know German to read her posts since the blog is bilingual.

Remember there is still some time left to participate in the

calendar bookmark photo contest.

The week after Thanksgiving Day

2010-11-30T00:05:00.000-08:00

We hope that everyone has had a grand Thanksgiving Day and has survived those three days that followed, when finally reality hit on Monday that it was back to work. For dad it was not work since he has been out of of work for a few years, rather it was however back for the last two weeks of cardiovascular rehabilitation that was granted by the insurance company after he made his case for an extension.

Deep in dreamland

At our house Thanksgiving Day is a big event, all of which is orchestrated by dad. He not only takes care of the bird, giving it a ‘brine and spice’ soaking for 24 hours, then a bake/roast combination, he takes charge of the entire menu, which usually ends up being 12 to 15 dishes, not counting the turkey or desserts.

All in all, this year ended up being the best Thanksgiving Day ever. It was the most organized and above all ‘stress-free’.

This was our 2010 menu

Cranberry salsa (our replacement for standard gravy)

Persian green rice with dill and peas

Pears w/green beans and bacon

Roasted brussel sprouts and cauliflower with gruyére cheese

Sweet potato purée w/orange juice, granny smith apples and heavy cream

Roasted carrots and fennel with lemon juice

Roasted multi-variety onion and leek dish with balsamic vinegar

Mash potatoes

Roasted medley of three different baby potatoes with rosemarie

Roasted squash medley and carrot mix

Corn bread with cheese, green onion and bacon

Maple pecan bread

The guests brought to the table

Pumpkin pie and an apple pie, including the appropriate riesling wine.

_____

So you cannot blame dad for not having posted these last sixteen days, but between rehab and preparing for Thanksgiving Day, he has been rather pre-occupied.

If you have managed to read all the way down to here, know there is still plenty of time left to enter Ms K’s calendar bookmark contest. For details see previous post. Also give a little thought to lighting since a most even light gives the best results.

In closing, we are trying to resolve a serious problem with Ms K’s Google Profile and dad’s Google Profile, which has kept us from being more visible. So far any help from the Google help community has fallen on deaf ears, but we will continue to try and clear up the ID conflicts that has effected our following other blogs and commenting.

Later today we will be looking at christmas trees and begin retrieving the boxes from the closet with our decorations and plan on this years theme for the tree.

Wishing you a warm and safe start to the holiday season

PostScript: We apologize for not having provided any photographs of the Thanksgiving Day table, but after serving the dishes, dad sank into his chair and simply watched the reaction of his guests and family members. Also note today's single photograph of Ms K showing two different versions with the second one being darkened around the edges to increase the focal point of Ms K’s face. -e

2011 Calendar drawing — first quarter

2010-11-13T00:05:00.000-08:00

Many of us are avid readers and therefore will have a need from time to time of a good bookmark to mark our progress and what could be better than one that not only incorporates a calendar but possible an image of our companion for an entire month.

So with dad’s years of graphic design experience, we set out to completely redesign the bookmarks that were previously featured with Miss Kitty’s image and now that photo shall be replaced with one the winners of the first quarter drawing. As you can see from the new design, the name of the winning feline will be placed above their image and in our post text, we will of course feature a link to their blog. We are also planning to add a little copy regarding your feline and we will be in touch once we announce the first three winners. In all there will be twelve winners by the time we finish.

The competition is open to all levels of ones photographic ability so give it your best. You may pose your companion or just try to capture them at what they enjoy doing, it is all up to you and the willingness of your cat.

Winners will be announced December 11.

Miss Kitty wishes you good luck.

for the first quarter full size sample click here

Requirements to qualify

1: You can submit 3-5 digital image

2: Image orientation: Vertical preferred

3: Formats acceptable: JPG (extra fine setting), TIFF or RAW
4: Please do not crop your pictures

5: Image size: minimum 2000 x 3000 pixels (5 MB plus) preferred

6: Last day to submit: December 10, 2010

7: Be a follower of this blog

Do not forget to include your information

1: Your name and the name of your feline

2: A link to your blog
3: Email subject matter: Competition or Bookmark

Drawing dates for the remaining quarters

Second quarter drawing

Announcement: February 11

Last day to submit: March 11

Third quarter drawing

Announcement: May 13

Last day to submit: June 10

Forth quarter drawing

Announcement: August 12

Last day to submit: September 9

Now let us not forget the legal matters

You also allow us crop the image and to use any Photoshop enhancements tools as we see fit.

Availability of the calendar bookmarks

The final design with the winning images will be made available in the last week of December for download from our Picasa album via a link so that it can be printed out on your colour printer in full resolution onto 8 .5 x 11 inches card stock.

Second, third and fourth quarter sample pages

For submissions or any questions please click here

A return to the garden

2010-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

The rains came early this year so I have not been out as often as I would like to have been. Still when dad rakes the leaves off the lawn or sweeps the entrance, I am there giving him not only company but also supervising the progress of his work. Of course when I am in the front, dad makes sure that no passing dog brings any harm to me.

After a few days of no rain and cold temperatures, the front porch area has dried and the wind have blown any leaves from the Japanese maple trees that line the entrance walkway down towards the path. The afternoon sun is no longer as warm as it was just a few weeks ago, but the fresh air is wonderful.

Artistic filters added to make it look like a painting

When dad is home he always leaves the sliding door to the balcony a little open so that I can go outside whenever I wish and maybe even head down to the lawn area and chew a little on the grass. Sometimes I just like to sit between the blooming azaleas that mum takes care of and then look down to see if the neighbors mean black cat is making his way home through our backyard.

Cory Cat Blog—Society of Feline Gardeners

Dad finished the final design layout for the 2011 bookmark calendar pages and come this weekend we will post details on the drawing so that your photograph of your feline can qualify. The design is much more refined than the first draft that we had offered as a download earlier this month.

Of course I had to make sure dad was following my instructions and since he does work slow, yet methodical in the detail and proofing, I managed to get a few cat naps on his laptop, warming my belly and seeing to it that dad cannot place the damaged laptop into sleep mood.

NEWS FLASH

2010-11-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL EARLY EDITION

Ms Kitty attended an exclusive halloween party at Banana and Cheese this last Sunday night and after having lost track of all time due to having simple too much fun, we are late with our report and therefore a Special Edition to allow others to see what transpired that evening.

Please visit Banana and Cheese for not only the full report but also the incredible pictures.

—

On another most important note, we hope that regardless of your political position,

that you exercising democracy by heading out to vote.

A little of everything and more

2010-10-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

I had no intention for dad not to take so long in preparing the artwork and photographs for my next post, but then there were circumstances over which he seemed to have little control. Therefore there is a little of this and a little of that, in other words, a little bit of everything and more.

First off, Ms Kitty wishes to say thank you to all who visited and also to those who have left a comment supporting her candidacy for Empress of California in the upcoming November 2nd mid-term elections. It is a very close tight race in this state but she and her staff feel that there is a good chance she can pull this off as a write-in candidate.

In the meantime, numerous new followers who I wish to acknowledge and say thank you for adding our blog to their roster. Thank you to

Shannon Frederick, no links available;

Elle Zelics, Twitter and her blog;

Cloon, short for Clonney, a feline also know as George Clooney;

another feline hunk Maximus in Canada at Giuld-rez Guildwood and

Guildwood Gardens blogs;

an unnamed person's blog, Mini Historia de Casita de Cartes;

and Michele Turner’s blog chocolate and marmalade tea where

she and her felines cook up some goodies.

♥ (^..^)

Rain, rain, guess I’ll just watch it from my throne

It seems that the rain season has arrived rather early this year or it is just making a brief appearance before returning us to a few more weeks of an Indian Summer. While dad is letting the house breath by opening all the doors, I like to sit by the front door and not only guard the entrance but also welcome any family member who's coming home early.

Martha Stewart’s LIVING, October 2010

When dad was at the doctors office, he saw Martha Stewart’s October issue of Living. It has been way too many months since he saw one of her magazine last and as he was flipping through the pages, he was rather surprised to see a large number of advertisements for felines products, along with felines being in pictures having nothing to do with cat products.

Yap he brought the issue home from the office and as he was getting it ready to photograph the various pages, I just had to investigate to make sure dad was not pulling the wool over anyones eyes. Noticed how the cat pictured in the Purina ONE ad looks a lot like me.

Cats featured in the October issue of LIVING

There was a total of twelve feline ads but dad only photographed eleven, guess he was in a hurry to finish since the natural light was disappearing behind the tress.

LIVING November 2010, cover and flip side

It seems the dogs have now sought their revenge and Martha, a dog lover no doubt, provided the canine their just dessert by giving them the entire flip side of the LIVING Thanksgiving Day issue.

Pet Finder screen shots of their iPhone application

On a much different subject matter, I was updating my iPhone applications and then had a look to see what there was available for free when I came across one I think you might be interested in having on your iPhone. Since I have installed it, I gave it a quick test run and found it did its job for which it was intended very well. I did not check if it is available for the iPad.

Bookmarks

Dad having designed bookmarks for his other blogs, he decoded to do a calendar version for me. After he designed this set, the original larger version (available here) was a little too large for a paperback book but not a hardbound book. Never-the-less, in gratitude of your support we are announcing to develop a quarterly set for next year, but the clincher is that the pictures are not all of me. We are going to have a drawing for the best ones set in. So stay tuned for details to follow in the next couple of weeks.

So there you have it, a rather long posting to make

up for the delay in not having one since last.

Until next time, wishing you all the best

Won’t you elect Ms K

2010-10-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ms Kitty’s poster campaign

With less than three weeks till the American mid-term elections are behind us, there has been enough mistrust, innuendoes and plenty of mud slinging flung between the candidates, that a new mountain from all the dirt has risen in Sacramento.

Ms Kitty’s billboard

Elections are serious business, yet it is time to defuse the situation with a little satirical humor and say it is time for a real candidate to step up to the plate. Though late in the campaign with the participants having been selected long ago, Miss Kitty is hereby letting it be known she is running as an alternative write-in candidate for the position of Empress of California.

Her position on a number of the issues is simply to ‘speak softly and rule with a sharp iron paw.’ Won’t you support Ms K.

Disclaimer: We take our election serious but looking back over the last three decades, we are embarrassed by the candidates and especially by the accusations they are flinging against each other. In no way was it our intention to offend anyone.

My patch of green

2010-10-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

With an increase in temperatures, Indian Summer has arrived full blast and in some areas of our state, records where being shattered. This means there will a few more sun puddle days in which to soak up the warmth, now I just need to figure out how to store the heat for when it is winter. In the meantime it's a trip down from the balcony, along the railing of the deck, along the birdbath and down a few more stairs to the lawn that dad actually needs to rake because it is covered in leaves.

My patch of green heaven

This blade smells pretty good, lets see how it tastes

Ah, so refreshing. Just have to make sure I chew it well

or I'll be throwing up dinner later

Cory Cat Blog—Society of Feline Gardeners

Please join us this coming Saturday for an important announcement. We promise you will not be disappointed.

After this coming weekend we will only be posting once or twice a week. The reason for this is that dad needs to get back to creating art and working on his three other blogs (see sidebar for links). Something he has not done most of the year, since he was in cardiovascular rehabilitation for almost five months to improve his heart condition. This way dad will also be able to visit you and comment as well.

Look at what came in the mail

2010-10-11T00:05:00.000-07:00

There came across a huge smile on dads face when late Saturday afternoon he retrieved the mail to find two items addressed to ‘Miss Kitty.’ He had hurried back into the house to show mum, who, by the way could not believe her eyes and was wondering what I had been up to.

Dad then sprinted up the stairs before running out of breath and headed straight for me. I turned towards him and with my usual inquisitive “Meow” inquired to know why he had elected to wake me from my meditations.

“Look what had come in the mail for you” he said.

Still in my declined position, I raised my head, gave the package and envelop its proper sniff inspection, which was followed by another “Meow,” letting dad know it was all right to open, because now I wanted to see what was inside the envelops.

Cheri had mentioned earlier in the week that our package should arrive beginning of the week, but to my surprise, the package came late Saturday afternoon in the post, along with an envelop from Sparkle in Los Angeles. The timing for either item to arrive simultaneously was genuinely fortuitous in a funny sort of a way. In one envelop a book and in another a bookmark.

The book was part of a ‘Give-a-way’ at Cats of Wildcat Woods as seven siblings and Cheri were celebrating their 300th post and wanted to honour it with a just released paperback edition of Homer’s Odyssey by Gwen Cooper . The bookmark came from Sparkle the Designer Cat who had a book launch for Dear Sparkle: Cat-to-Cat Advice from the World’s Foremost Feline Columnist.

Currently dad is trying to finish another book about, what else, a woman Jacqueline and the felines in her life, their adventures and lessons they taught her. Once finished, dad will be reading Cheri’s generous gift and sharing the stories of Homer with me.

My apologies for not photographing Miss Kitty with the spread on the table. I followed the wisdom of another, who it is said, cut off the bottom of his rob where the cat was sleeping in order not to disturb the animal, considering I already had interrupted her meditations.

Post Script: I just learned from Bleubeard's human, Elizabeth, that he decided to make a rare appearance on her blog Altered Book Lover, since he permitted Elizabeth to take 'over 100 hundred photos.' So please drop on in and say 'hi.'

Among the autumn leaves

2010-10-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

The days have been growing much shorter and one needs to search for the few sun puddles that still remain, before the light disappears behind the trees.

Dad always leaves the sliding door a bit open so that I can go out onto the balcony where I can then view the entire backyard for any intruder. It is also the place I feel the safest when dad is busy inside the house and I just want some fresh air.

This afternoon there were only a few scrub jays among the manzanita trees making all kinds of noise, while only a handful of smaller birds came to the bird feeders for their dinner before searching for a spot to sleep for the night.

Whenever a leaf parted from a tree and tumbled towards the ground I became startled, then looking from where the sound came to make sure it was not a cat entering into my territory. Even when there is a sharp gust of wind the tree then bursts into a rustling crescendo that always seems to have me spooked.

Cory Cat Blog—Society of Feline Gardeners

Today with our first participation we joined the weekly event of the Society of Feline Gardeners and are looking forward to many more posts as I love joining dad or mum when they are in the garden.

Sweet smiles, wicket thoughts

2010-10-05T00:45:00.000-07:00

These humans, they just don’t know how to relax, taking it easy and just enjoy life. Always busy running around, doing something around the house that a promise made to me was only broken hours later, as daddy never got around to posting one minute after midnight on Saturday the story he had planned because he never got around to write it.

So here is now Tuesday and dad still did not write what we had discussed and agreed upon. Nor has he uploaded and editing the many new photographs he took of me. He appears to be slacking off and I don’t care dad was busy baking and cooking this weekend since we had an out of town guest staying with us and my big sister was home for the weekend.

Dad did surprise me with my very own FavIcon that was imbedded in the blogs HTML code this evening and now graces the URL window. I like it for now but in due time something a bit bolder in design would be more to my liking.

So as I lay on my favorite pillow in deep slumber and the late afternoon light skitters across my fur, I appear to be smiling and I am. Could it be that I am dreaming of mice, a small bird or receiving a tasty morsel from the human’s dinner plate. No, I am smiling because I have wicket thoughts, scheming of all the things I wish daddy to do for me since I have him wrapped around my little paw.

Right now I’ll cut him a little slack, but in the coming weeks I will be cracking the whip and he will be dancing to my tune. So stay tuned and see what unfolds over the next several months.

How hot is hot?

2010-09-28T00:32:00.000-07:00

If one needs to ask how hot is it, then it is too hot!

Today our temperatures reached triple digits and it is going to take another several days before things may return back to normal. My relatives in Southern California set new records, with Los Angeles reaching an all time high of 113° degrees. All I can say is that this makes our numbers at 103° and 105° more tolerable, if anything over ninety is tolerable.

Once dad came back from his trip visiting my big sister at the University of Santa Cruz, I headed into the garden and found myself a cool spot on the concrete to cool off on. Here I remained until my stomach felt it was time for dinner. Where is the San Francisco fog when one needs it.

Ah Friday

2010-09-24T00:32:00.000-07:00

How quickly the hours pass as another week comes and goes the way of the others. Days get shorter, and sunny spots are harder to find. Dad has been busy on the computer all day, stopping by my pillow when he is taking a break to stretch his legs. Though he disrupts my meditations, I welcome his company.

Dad shares with me some sad news, for a few hours ago he learned of Molly crossing over to the other side of the bridge. She had clung on until mum came back from her trip and when she held Molly, she slowly slipped away, closing her eyes for the last time. Our hearts go out to them, for daddy knows how it feels to lose a friend and companion in ones arms.

We are both quiet, looking out of the window of our balcony into the garden. Watching how the wind plays with the last few minutes of the late afternoon light filtering through the few remaining leaves clinging to the branches and casting magical moving shadows before us. Dad gentle messages my back and neck, then gives me a few paw rubs that always make me purr much louder, as I soak up a few more sun puddles.

This is a big over-sized pillow it’s so very comfy, especially with the soft furry blanket on top. One cannot help but want to sink into a deep slumber. Oh well, time for another ‘power nip’ before dinner.

Life is indeed good . . .

My new menu

2010-09-21T00:41:00.000-07:00

By now you know I am a real fuzzy eater, never eating anything twice in a row and even though I have been given much better entrées this passed year, I refused two nights in a row the offerings, knowing something new was brought home.

How do I know this, well dad came home with two shopping bags of feline goodies. After unpacking, he began to arrange the packages on the kitchen table, rushing to make the late afternoon light streaming through the window before it disappeared behind the trees.

When dad was ready, he let me on the table to inspect the various packages. My first impression was that I had won the lottery; for I knew it was not my birthday and Christmas is still a couple of months away. Well let’s see what’s on the menu.

Main Menu

Iames- Pro Active Health

12 Pâté with gourmet chicken
12 Pâté with tender beef

12 Filets with salmon in sauce
12 Filets with Skipjack tuna in sauce

Meow Mix- Market Select

4 Chicken and whole shrimp in sauce
4 Salmon and crab meat in sauce
4 Tuna and shrimp in sauce

Dessert Treats

Friskies- Natural Sensations

Salmon with accents of sunflower and garden veggies
Tuna with accents of sunflower and cranberries
Chicken with accents of sunflower and seaweed

Friskies- Party Mix

Original Crunch; chicken, liver and tuna
Beachside Crunch; shrimp, crab and tuna
Mixed Grill Crunch; chicken, beef and salmon
Cheesy Craze Crunch; Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack flavors

— - —

Now I just have to decide what to sample first, but tell me where is the designer water list?