Happy Tuesday

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCCXII

Annual Supply Run to the House of Black Cats

Stinky is fairly certain Periwinkle will arrive on time today, as she knows they have a big day ahead. They will be revisting Walter and all the black cats he cares for with supplies for the upcoming year. They stopped in last week to pick up his list and have a quick visit with the current residents.

 

 

Stinky is reviewing Walter’s list when he sees the teleportation tunnel begin to vibrate. He quickly runs to the opening just in tiime to catch Periwinkle as she tumbles out with a whoosh. As she usually is, Periwinkle is giggling. As she gasps to catch her breath, she says, “That was a particularly ticklish ride today!”

After several minutes of paw hugging, nuzzling and whisker kissing, Periwinkle speaks again, “I am really excited to be delivering supplies to Walter today, but my mom said you have a surprise for me. Am I going to get to meet the kittens your mom and dad are fostering?”

“Of course, but that is not the surprise. After we take care of our delivery, we’ll come back here for your surprise and to meet the kittens,” replies Stinky.

“Well, let’s get a move on then. You know I am not good about waiting,” exclaimed Periwinkle. She continues, “Are we airlifting the goodies again this year?”

“No, the logistics of that are so complicated. My dad rented a big truck for us and will drive us as he did a couple of years ago.”

“That sounds like a good plan. Is the truck loaded and ready to go?” asks Periwinkle.

Loading the Last of the Supplies

“I think my dad is finishing it up now. Let’s go check.”

 

 

Periwinkle runs up to Dad Tom and jumps into his arms. They share a big hug before Dad Tom puts Periwinkle into the truck’s cab.

Stinky, of course, climbs up on one of the pallets of supplies. “Please get down so I can finish loading everything,” requests Dad Tom. Stinky reluctantly gets down and joins Periwinkle in the truck’s cab.

“Do you remember, Stinky, when we first started delivering supplies to Walter? We used our wagons to take everything there.”

“Of course, I remember. Walter had fewer cats under his care, and using our wagons was sufficient. If we tried to do that now, it would take days.”

Arriving at the House of Black Cats

When the tabbies and Dad Tom arrive they head straight for the storage shed to unload.

 

 

While Stinky “helps” his dad, Periwinkle scampers up to the house to visit with all the kitties. She discovers that many of the cats present last year have been adopted, but lots of new kitties have arrived. Walter explains that after Halloween is over and Thanksgiving approaches, he tries to find homes for as many of his residents as possible to make room for others.

When Dad Tom and Stinky finish unloading and storing all the supplies, they join Periwinkle at the house.

 

 

Of course, Stinky climbs up on the roof to visit with the cats hanging out there. Periwinkle just rolls her eyes, and Dad Tom asks him to please go inside through one of the open windows.

Dad Tom then goes inside to tell Walter that they have brought a picnic for everyone and to ask him to help bring the food from the truck. While they are getting the picnic food together, Stinky and Periwinkle head outside to set up blankets. When finished they gather all the black kitties and lead them outside.

 

 

After their picnic and a nice long visit, it is time for Periwinkle, Stinky and Dad Tom to head home. They share paw hugs with Walter and all the other kitties and then head to the truck.

Both Periwinkle and Stinky fall asleep and don’t wake until they are back at Stinky’s house.

Meeting the Kittens

Dad Tom helps Periwinkle & Stinky from the truck cab, and Stinky immediately takes Periwinkle to visit the kittens.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Stinky, these kittens are so adorable. Do you get to come down and play with them?”

“I haven’t and neither have any of the other Kitties Blue. Mom doesn’t want us to get upset by seeing so many little, squeaky interlopers. Lisbeth saw them in a PTU when Mom and Dad brought them upstairs for a bath. She freaked out and took off for the living room immediately.”

“Will your mom and dad keep one or two of them when they are old enough to be adopted?”

Stinky replies, “I have no idea. I think Mom asked when the kittens first got here if she could keep one. Dad didn’t answer her, and I don’t know if she still wants one. Do you think your mom would want one?”

“Wow, I don’t know. I would like another brother, but Mom’s been avoiding getting us one. I think I’ll ask her when I get home. Now that we have seen the kittens, do I get to find out about my surprise?”

Periwinkle’s Surprise

“Do you remember when we found out we won four Certificates of Excellence from the Cat Writers’ Association in this year’s contest?”

“Of course. Did we finally receive them?”

“We did, but that’s not the surprise. The CWA had their Awards Ceremony on Saturday night. We won our first Muse Medallion for “The Adventures of Periwinkle & Stinky: Part CCXX – National Answer Your Cat’s Question Day.”

“Oh wow, that is so cool. When will we get it?”

“I have no idea. But if it is okay, we will wait to share our COEs until the Muse arrives, and then we can show them all off together.”

“That’s okay with me. Did your Mom get any Muse awards this year?”

“She did. I think she’ll share about it on Thankful Thursday.”

Halloween Greetings

“Since Halloween is this Friday, I thought we should send Halloween greetings to all our friends and followers. Did you bring your costume?”

“Yep, should we get changed now?” asks Periwinkle. Stinky tells her that they should, and he heads to the bedroom to get his costume while Periwinkle changes into hers. Neither knows what the other has selected.

 

 

“Stinky, I am not certain I like our costumes this year. What do you think?” asks Periwinkle.

“Well, you are an adorable Cookie Monster. But I am not certain that I make a very good Spiderman.”

“I do think you are cuter in your own furs. That cap is sort of wonky. But, no matter how you look or what you are wearing, you are huggable, and I love you!”

Stinky blushes and gives Periwinkle a big hug and remarks, “Maybe we should go back to letting our mom’s select our costumes.”

“I agree.”

Finally it is time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky spend lots of time paw hugging and whisker kissing. Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a blown kiss and a whoosh she is gone.

Stinky retires to the bedroom, removes his costume and settles in for a nap and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

The tabbies will be hopping over to Comedy Plus to join the Happy Tuesday blog hop. If you click on the badge below, you can do the same.

ANOTHER MISSED BIRTHDAY

Happy Tabby Tuesday

It goes without saying that I have lost control. I missed another Kitties Blue birthday. In my defense, the vet assigned yesterday as Cooper Murphy’s birthday. And, they kindly sent Cooper a birthday greeting yesterday, which is how I discovered I missed it.

Normally, I would not be posting today. It is the day for Periwinkle and Stinky’s adventure and Periwinkle’s day to plan what they are doing. So don’t forget to stop in at Friends Furever and see what they are doing. But first, please help us celebrate Cooper Murphy’s birthday.

Cooper Murphy was enjoying his birthday yesterday.

 

 

Large orange tabby cat lying on a pillow.

 

His fursibs and I made a card.

Birthday card for an orange tabby cat.

 

We never ask Cooper Murphy to bake his own birthday cake. As Stinky and Periwinkle have done a lot of baking lately, Stinky stepped up and created a super cute (and I am certain tasty) cake.

Birthday cake for an orange tabby cat.

 

As we always do for any celebration, we are offering a variety of beverages and some yummy nip ice cream.

 

 

Nothing could be happier than a celebration and so Cooper Murphy will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop hosted by Sandee at Comedy Plus. If you would like to join him, click on the Happy badge.

 

If you are unfamiliar with Cooper’s story and how he became a member of the Kitties Blue, check out these posts: “IS THIS EIGHTEENTH KITTIES BLUE?” and “IT’S OFFICIAL: WELCOMING NEW FAMILY MEMBER.”  

Thank you for joining Cooper Murphy’s belated birthday celebration. We will be back tomorrow for Wordless Wednesday; though, I have no idea if it will be wordless.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCCVIII

Stinky & Periwinkle are two cartoon tabby cats. Stinky is a Manx cat and doesn’t have a tail. They are alter egos of Sawyer, who lives in Virginia, and Noelle, who lives in Florida. They began as boyfriend and girlfriend but are now engaged. The tabbies alternate planning adventures, which they post on their blogs (The Cat on My Head and Friends Furever) on Tuesdays. The tabbies travel between locations in a cat play tunnel, which they refer to as a teleportation tunnel. They have shared more than 300 adventures.

Stinky’s Imaginings

As he often does, Stinky is worring that the adventure he has planned for today will be unappealing to Periwinkle, especially as it is another home adventure. Having each planned over 150 adventures, it is getting more difficult to find something exciting to do. There are lots of places Stinky would like to visit that his mom thinks are too dangerous for little tabby cats at this time. He has asked his mom to make invisibility cloaks for both he and Periwinkle, but she says she has no idea how to do that.

Stinky believes that since he and Periwinkle can teleport, they can definitely make themselves invisible, and he plans to investigate the possibility for the future. He imagines all the things he and Periwinkle could do if invisible: pounce unseen on their fursibs and humans, thwart criminals, tour cat treat manufacturing facilities and Stinky’s favorite, climb to the top of the tallest tree he can find!

Periwinkle’s Arrival

When the teleportation tunnel begins to vibrate, Stinky puts his imaginings aside so he can snag Periwinkle as she tumbles from the tunnel with the usual whoosh. Once she is in his paws, they spend several minutes whisker kissing and hugging. When they come up for air, Stinky takes Periwinkle’s paw and leads her to the kitchen, which elicits from Periwinkle the question, “Are we staying at your house again today?”

“We are,” responds Stinky. With his paws crossed behind his back, he says, “But I think you will really like what we are going to do.”

“Well spit it out, and let’s see what I think,” demands Periwinkle.

“We are going to make homemade cat treats.”

“That sounds like the purrfect adventure, especially as you are a lover of treats.”

Stinky hands Periwinkle her chef’s hat and apron and then puts his on.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats wearing chef's hats and aprons and sitting at a counter with ingredients to make homemade cat treats.

Cat Treat Recipe & Instructions*

Stinky’s mom has laid out all the ingredients for them and Periwinkle and Stinky pull chairs up to the counter to check them out and get to work.

Ingredients:
1 can (undrained) tuna or salmon (Periwinkle & Stinky are using salmon.)
1 c whole wheat flour
1 egg
2 T olive oil

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Purée the canned salmon in a small food processor.
Mix in the flour and egg and then add the olive oil and mix well to combine all ingredients.
Use a tablespoon to scoop batter and form into balls with paws. (Gloves might be a good idea to help keep fur out of the treats.)
Put balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. (You can place these quite close together, as they do not spread while baking.)
Press down on the tops with the tines of a fork.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes. (P&S baked theirs for 14.)
Remove from oven and cool on wire rack.

Store cat treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

This entire process (not including the time to cut up the cooled treats) took one hour.

 

Collage of homemade cat treats in the process of being made.

 

* This recipe is from Sweet Precision. (That was made with tuna but suggested salmon as an alternative. As Kitties Blue are fond of salmon, Periwinkle & Stinky decided to use it for their treats. The site also suggested catnip could be added to the recipe.)

Some different cat treat recipes can be found at Kitschen Cat and Supakit.

Nutrition Information

This made 33 one-inch treats for an equivalent of 28 calories per treat (salmon = 200 calories, olive oil = 240 calories, egg = 78 calories, whole wheat flour = 408 calories for a total of 926 calories). The treats themselves are roughly the size of a dog biscuit, so Stinky’s mom cut them each into four to six pieces. This made the calorie count for each treat about 4.5 to 7 calories.

Based on an average cat being around 10 pounds, you can decide how many treats you should give your cat using information from Honest Kitchen. They suggest, depending on a cat’s activity level, breed, weight, health, age and any underlying health conditions, that a daily calorie intake for a 9.9 to 11 pound cat to be 240 to 290 calories. Included on the site is a guide to help you calculate your cat’s exact needs based on weight.

Taste Test

“Shall we sample our treats, Periwinkle?”

“Of course, and you must go first as you are the King of Treats.”

“Happy to be the guinea pig,” replies Stinky, which makes Periwinkle giggle as she pictures him as one.

Stinky takes a treat and noms it. “Wow, this is yummy!”

“Please don’t talk with your mouth full,” admonishes Periwinkle. She then tries a treat and begins to purr. “I give these four paws up Stinky. What do you think?”

“Ditto! I think I will have another.”

“Should we have your fursibs taste test?” asks Periwinkle.

“Good idea,” replies Stinky and goes in search of them. He finds Sawyer, Cooper Murphy, Calista Jo and Audrey. The first three gobble up their treat. Audrey turns down her treat.” Audrey did not want the treat, which seriously surprises me, but Sawyer ate it for her,” exclaims Stinky.

“Surprise, surprise,” replies Periwinkle.

“Let’s pack some of these for you to take home. Maybe Reesie will like them,” says Stinky.

“I wouldn’t count on it. But that’s not a problem. I think they are scrumptious,” replies Periwinkle. She then suggests she and Stinky clean up the kitchen so she can visit with his fursibs before she has to head home.

Visiting With Kitties Blue

Periwinkle finds some of the KB crew in the bedroom and spends time talking to them.

 

Cartoon tabby cat and four real cats on a bed.

 

She decides not to disturb Raleigh and Kizmet, as they are napping.

 

Buff-colored tabby cat and a grey cat napping with a cartoon tabby cat.

 

Finally, it is time for Periwinkle to head home. After she thanks Stinky’s mom for her help with the project and gives her a big hug, the tabbies head to the teleportation tunnel. They spend several minutes whisker kissing and paw hugging. Then, Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. With a wave and blown kiss, she is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky returns to the kitchen to sample a few more treats.

The End

Periwinkle and Stinky will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. To join them there, click on the badge below.

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCCVI

Stinky & Periwinkle are two cartoon tabby cats. Stinky is a Manx cat and doesn’t have a tail. They are alter egos of Sawyer, who lives in Virginia, and Noelle, who lives in Florida. They began as boyfriend and girlfriend but are now engaged. The tabbies alternate planning adventures, which they post on their blogs (The Cat on My Head and Friends Furever) on Tuesdays. The tabbies travel between locations in a cat play tunnel, which they refer to as a teleportation tunnel. They have shared more than 300 adventures.

Periwinkle’s Arrival

Stinky is particularly happy that today is the day each week he gets to spend with Periwinkle. The situation at his house has been one of turmoil, and he is looking forward to sharing lots of comforting paw hugs with Periwinkle. He’s thankful when he does not have to wait long for her arrival. When he sees the teleportation tunnel begin to vibrate, he sprints to the opening and snags Periwinkle as she tumbles out with a whoosh. 

“Good morning, beautiful. I am so thrilled to see you today,” exclaims Strinky.

“And I am super pleased to be here. I know home life has been a bit challenging for you and your family lately,” replies Periwinkle.

“Bingo … you could say that again but please don’t.”

“With my mom’s new knee, which she has abused terribly, and Astrid’s dire diagnosis, nothing has been normal. Rooms we can normally enter are closed off, and sleep is continually interrupted by Astrid bellowing. When I try to get to her food, Mom pushes me away because it is supposed to be special. Well, I’m special too!”

“If you are done whining, I would like to say, ‘hi,’ to your mom and to Astrid,” replies Periwinkle. “I made a card for each of them.”

Visiting Astrid & Mom Janet

“Sorry for being such a grumpy puss. You are always so thoughtful. They are both holed up in the bedroom,” Stinky responds. 

“Well, let’s go see them.”

When the tabbies enter the bedroom, they find Astrid wrapped in a warm blanket napping in Mom Janet’s lap. Mom Janet opens her eyes when she hears them enter. “Oh, Periwinkle, I am delighted to see you and your smiling face.”

Periwinkle gives Stinky’s mom a hug and hands her the cards she has made for her and Astrid. 

 

Get Well card for a tortoise shell cat in blue and yellow with a heart and cartoon tabby cat.

 

Tabby cat with paper smile as a get well card.

 

As Mom Janet reads them, Periwinkle pets Astrid and gives her a kiss on the head. 

“Thank you, Periwinkle, these are purrfect. What has Stinky planned for you today?” asks Stinky’s mom.

“I have no idea. He hasn’t told me yet.”

“Well, I am certain whatever it is, you will have fun. Just be careful, please,” Stinky’s mom concludes as she gives Periwinkle a wink. Periwinkle is happy that Stinky doesn’t see that.

The tabbies leave the bedroom and head back toward the teleportation tunnel. Periwinkle asks, “Where are we going today, Stinky?”

Stinky blushes and says, “Actually, I must apologize. We are staying home again. Tuesdays are the day when my dad volunteers for the Red Cross. Since he’s not going to be here, he asked if we could stay home with Astrid and my mom.”

“Stinky, I do not mind at all. I am a good nurse.”

 

Tortoise shell cat and a cartoon tabby cat in a nurse's cap.

 

“I know you are, and I appreciate that you understand. We are going to celebrate a holiday today,” Stinky replies. 

“Ooh, what is it?” Asks Periwinkle.

Pet Promise Day

“It is called Pet Promise Day,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“I have never heard of that, Stinky. What can you tell me about it?”

“I was unable to find the name of the person who created it or when it was first celebrated. According to the website, Days of the Year, ‘Pet Promise Day was established with the purpose of encouraging pet owners or prospective pet owners to be sure that they are committed and dedicated to taking care of their animals in all of the ways they need. To provide a safe and healthy environment, give them plenty of opportunities for rest and play, and treat them like family members for their whole lives!’”

“I know we get treated that way, Stinky. And, I am pretty sure all our readers do the same for their pet family members,” replies Periwinkle. 

“Yes we do. But someone may visit our blog who had never considered this,” Stinky responds.

“That’s true! Now that you’ve told people about it, what are we going to do about it?” asks Periwinkle.

“With all holidays of this nature, Periwinkle, individuals can do many things to celebrate, but first and foremost, people need to spend quality time with their pets, which should always include play and exercise. 

“If an individual or family are in the process of considering adoption, they should educate themselves with regard to their future responsibilities, including cost of food and vet care, selection of the right pet/breed for one’s living situation, especially if young children are involved, ensuring the life-long care of the pet, which may mean including it in one’s will. If one is looking to add a dog to their family, they also need to factor in the time and cost involved in training, exercising and grooming needs.”

“Stinky, that is a lot to consider. It is obvious by the stories we constantly see about pets being abandoned, that too many people are adopting pets on a whim. I think if they considered all these factors, that would happen way less often,” replies Periwinkle.

“Good point!”

Pet Promise Pledge

“I would like to ask all our readers to take a Pet Promise Pledge,” advises Stinky.

“What is that, Stinky?”

“Well, it is an informal or formal vow taken by a pet parent to commit to the life-long care, well-being and happiness of their pets and can include such things as health, emotional and safety needs. The American Kennel Club has one for dog owners, which could be adapted for cats. Readers can find that by clicking on the link in the previous sentence.”

I could not find any cat-specific Promise Pledges on-line, and so I asked my mom to help me write one. And it could be used for any pet family member, as it is non-breed or species specific. 

“Stinky, that was so thoughtful. Can we create a nice graphic that our readers can copy or print if they want?”

“I think that’s a terrific idea. We can do it right now.” The tabbies head to the kitchen and get busy designing a graphic.

When finished they give each other big paw hugs, and Periwinkle comments, “Oh, Stinky, I think this is purrfect. I hope all our readers take the Pledge.”

“Me too, Periwinkle!”

 

Pet Promise Pledge graphic and two cartoon tabby cats.

 

“Periwinkle, did you know that my parents have Kitties Blue in their will with a specific person appointed to care for them and a substantial amount of money set aside for that.”

“I am happy they have planned ahead, Stinky.”

Snack Time & Home

“Are you ready for a snack, Periwinkle?” My dad set it up on the porch before he left.”

“You bet, Stinky. Let’s go.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on a porch having a snack.

 

After enjoying their snack, Periwinkle visits with Stinky’s fursibs, then returns to the bedroom to hug Astrid and Mom Janet and give them her best wishes.

Sadly, it is time for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky share whisker kisses, paw hugs and whispered, “I love yous.” Then Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel and with a wave and a whoosh is on her way home.

Stinky returns to the bedroom to check on Astrid and his mom.

The End

Stinky and Periwinkle will be participating. in the Happy Tuesday blog hop hosted by Sandee at Comedy Plus. To join them there, click on the badge below.

 

All photos and graphics created by the author using piZap app. 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCCIV

Stinky is waiting for Periwinkle by the teleportation tunnel when he sees it begin to vibrate, and he hears the familiar whoosh. Periwinkle tumbles out right into his waiting paws. They share a huge paw hug and some whisker kisses. Before she can utter even a tiny meow, Stinky takes her paw and leads her back into the tunnel. Moments later they arrive at their destination.

Periwinkle looks confused. They are in a parking lot behind some stores and in front of what looks like an old warehouse. “Ta-da,” announces Stinky.

“Ta-da, what?” Periwinkle exclaims in confusion.

“Just wait until we get inside, Periwinkle. You are going to love this,” replies Stinky.

“How do you know? Have you been here before adventuring without me?”

“No, silly, I would never do that. Mom and Dad have been here and highly recommended it for us.”

“Well, okay, I do trust your Mom and Dad. Just as long as we are not the clean-up crew for what appears to be an abandoned building.”

“Nope!” Without any further discussion Stinky leads Periwinkle inside. But it is not until they pass through a retail space that she sees the sign.

The Van Gogh Immersive Experience

(Note: Some photos are shown out of sequence to make the post more cohesive for our readers.)

 

Welcome sign to the Van Gogh Experience with a self-portrait of Van Gogh.

 

“Oh, Stinky, this is where your parents visited a couple of week’s ago!”

“Correct-a-mundo,” the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. I don’t know much about art, but Mom is certain we will enjoy this, as it is colorful and relaxing. Let’s check out this time line of Van Gogh’s life.”

 

Time Line of the life of Vincent van Gogh from the Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

“Wow, Stinky, this is really small!”

“I know. I hope our readers can enlarge in on their computers, as we only will be touching on some high points.”

Van Gogh’s Life

Periwinkle and Stinky want to give everyone a bit of information about Vincent van Gogh prior to sharing their experience with you.

The Dutch, post-impressionist artist was born in the Netherlands in 1853 and lived to be 37 years old. He died in 1890 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He suffered from bi-polar disorder and epilepsy. Van Gogh experienced vivid hallucinations and delusions. These are common symptoms of schizophrenia. He spent one year in a mental institution where he created paintings at a rate of one every 36 hours. Most people know him as the artist who cut off his own ear.

During his career, which lasted approximately ten years, Van Gogh created 2,000 works of art, the majority of which were sketches (1,100). The other 900 were paintings.

The tabbies begin to explore the “experience” and find there is a lot of reading involved, which is not what they came for, so they decide to skip most of it, and just check out the art.  Stinky tells Periwinkle that most of the images they will see are projections like with the sunflowers. No original pieces are part of the experience. 

Sunflowers

 

Six of Van Gogh's sunflower paintings.

 

The seventh of Van Gogh's sunflower paintings.

 

Most people do not realize that Van Gogh painted a series of seven sunflowers in a vase between 1888 and 1889. He painted many other sunflowers, but these are the ones for which he is best known.

 

Sunflower exhibit from the Van Gogh Immersive Experience

 

“Stinky, this is like we are actually part of a Van Gogh sunflower painting,” remarks Periwinkle.

“I know, it is really cool, especially how a fan makes the sunflowers look as if they are swaying in a breeze. Flowers were one of Van Gogh’s favorite objects to paint.”

Other Flowers

 

Four of Van Gogh's flower paintings from a display at the Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

“Stinky, this is so cool. I love how the image keeps changing, and how the vase is real and projects into the room. Thank you so much for not climbing on it.”

(Apology to our readers: As this was a changing projection, it was impossible to get still photographs without the very distracting vertical bands of color.)

Bedroom in Arles

Some of Vincent van Gogh’s most famous paintings are those of the Bedroom in Arles, which was Van Gogh’s room in his home, known as “the yellow house.” He painted three versions with the main difference being in the chairs, bed, floor and window.

 

Sign showing the three paintings of the Bedroom in Arles by Vincent van Gogh at the Van Gogh immersive Experience.

 

A reproduction of Van Gogh's bedroom with two cartoon tabby cats from the Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

“Stinky, it is so cool that we can actually enter one of Van Gogh’s paintings by having this re-creation as part of the exhibit.”

“I know, and I think it is even okay for you and I to sit on the bed and chair without getting in trouble.”

Japanese Influence

Vincent van Gogh collected Japanese prints, which offered him a new way of viewing the world. In the latter half of the 19th  century, admiration for all things Japanese was growing, but few artists in the Netherlands studied Japanese art. Van Gogh paid little attention at first. In Paris, however, it was extremely popular. That is where Van Gogh discovered the impact of Japanese art on the artists of Europe and decided to modernize his own art.

 

Two tabby cats with a collage from Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats at a Japonisme display at the Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in a display of Van Gogh's Japanese paintings from Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

Self-Portraits

In the last four years of his life, Van Gogh painted from 35 to 40 self-portraits. These are just a few of those paintings.

 

Nine of Van Gogh's self portraits from the Van Gogh Impersive Experience.

 

Four self-portraits from the Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

This is just a small sample of what is included in the exhibition. The best and most impressive part is what comes at the end.

The Immersive Experience

Periwinkle and Stinky enter the final section of the Van Gogh experience, and Periwinkle’s mouth falls open. They are surrounded on all four walls and the floor with a constant stream of Van Gogh’s art, which totally immerses them in his paintings.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in one of the projected scenes from Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in one of the projected scenes from Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in one of the projected scenes from Van Gogh Immersive Experience.

 

The display lasts about an hour and is constantly changing. (The third photo under the Japanese Influence heading and the second photo under the Self-Portraits heading are also part of this display.)

“Stinky, this has been incredible. I would start all over again at the beginning if my paws weren’t tired.”

“I know, Periwinkle. I have never experienced anything like this. I feel badly that we have only been able to share a small portion of what we have seen. I hope some of our friends can get tickets and enjoy this as well. I am having my mom put information at the end of our post on where are readers can get more information about other locales for the experience as well as tickets,” replies Stinky.

“Stinky, I am starving. Can we head back to your house for a snack?”

“You bet, let’s go,” Stinky replies, and the tabbies head to their teleportation tunnel.

Home for a Snack

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on a porch having snacks.

 

“I love your porch, Stinky. It is the purrfect spot to relax and have a snack, especially on such a beautiful day.”

“I agree, especially when we can be here together,” adds Stinky.

When the tabbies finish their snack, Periwinkle takes some time to visit with Stinky’s fursibs before heading to the teleportation tunnel for the trip home. Once there, she and Stinky share lots of paw hugs and whisker kisses and whisper, “I love you,” to each other. Then with a whoosh and a wave, Periwinkle is gone.

Stinky heads to the catio for a nap and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

The Van Gogh Immersive Experience, which began in 2017,  is currently being shown in America in the following cities: Wichita, Tampa, Richmond, Knoxville and Winston-Salem. It also is touring in several European cities. Our readers can find those at http://www.vangoghexpo.com/. You also can find video footage there, which will give you a look at what Periwinkle & Stinky actually experienced. 

Periwinkle will be joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. To go there, click on the badge below.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCCII

14th Birthday Celebration for Astrid & Lisbeth

Stinky is anxious for Periwinkle’s arrival as he knows he needs lots of help with today’s adventure. His mom, in her usual forgetfulness, missed Astrid and Lisbeth’s 14th birthday on Sunday. So, passing the buck, she has tasked Stinky and Periwinkle with planning a party for today. Stinky passed the buck again when he asked Cooper Murphy to make the birthday cake. Now he needs Periwinkle to help him decorate and make a special scrapbook for Astrid and Lisbeth.

As Stinky paces nervously past the teleportation tunnel, he is delighted to hear the familiar whoosh from the tunnel. Periwinkle comes tumbling out into his waiting paws. When she finishes giggling, Periwinkle and Stinky spend time whisker kissing and paw hugging. When they part, Periwinkle says, “I guess I do not need to ask what we are doing today. I read on your blog yesterday that we are putting together a party for Astrid and Lisbeth’s 14th birthday.”

“That’s right,” says Stinky and takes Periwinkle’s paw to lead her to the kitchen. “First, Mom asked us to make some special scrapbook pages with photos from past birthdays, as she knows we are good at that. When we finish, we will teleport to our cottage where all of our fursibs will meet us for the party.”

“Oh, Stinky, I am so happy we are going to the cottage. We haven’t been there for ages. Let’s get to work.”

 

two cartoon tabby cats sitting at a kitchen counter with items to create scrapbook pages.

 

The tabbies get busy putting together several scrapbook pages with photos of cards from friends and family, gifts from now angels, Charles (Lisbeth’s boyfriend) and Sampy (Astrid’s husband) and cakes. When complete, they pack them up and head back to the teleportation tunnel, so they will be at the cottage to greet Astrid, Lisbeth and all their other fursibs.

At the Cottage

Periwinkle and Stinky are waiting on the porch to greet all the others when they arrive.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on the steps of a quaint cottage with a sign on the roof, which reads, "Happy 14th Birthday Astrid & Lisbeth."

 

When all the felines are gathered, they head to the dining room where Stinky gives Astrid and Lisbeth crowns to wear and Cooper Murphy presents the cake he’s made. All the kitties sing Happy Birthday to Lisbeth and Astrid. After, they each have huge pieces of cake and a long visit.

 

Cottage dining room with ten cats and two cartoon tabby cats seated around a round table with a birthday cake in the center and a banner above the fireplace.

 

Scrapbook Gift

After finishing their cake and washing their paws and whiskers, Periwinkle & Stinky present the birthday girls with their scrapbook pages. Astrid and Lisbeth spend lots of time admiring each page and then pass the pages around the table so everyone can see them.

 

Birthday scrapbook page for a tortoise shell cat, Astrid, and a black and white cat, Lisbeth.

 

Birthday scrapbook page for a tortoise shell cat, Astrid, and a black and white cat, Lisbeth.

 

Birthday scrapbook page for a tortoise shell cat, Astrid, and a black and white cat, Lisbeth.

 

Birthday scrapbook page for a tortoise shell cat, Astrid, and a black and white cat, Lisbeth.

 

Birthday scrapbook page for a tortoise shell cat, Astrid, and a black and white cat, Lisbeth.

 

Relaxing in the Garden

The kitties all agree it would be nice to spend time in Stinky and Periwinkle’s garden and head outside.

 

Garden strung with Christmas and inhabited by ten cats and two cartoon tabby cats.

 

“Wow, your garden is so beautiful,” enthuses Reesie.

“I am really happy we didn’t take down the lights,” responds Periwinkle.

“The flowers are amazing as well,” remarks Kizmet.

Everyone thinks it is a lovely spot to relax and decide to curl up for a nap. When they awake it has gotten dark, and it is time to head home. As everyone is heading to the teleportation tunnel, Periwinkle whispers to Stinky, “Do you think our moms would mind if you and I stay over until morning?”

“I already asked before we came, and they both said that it would be okay,” Stinky tells her.

As their fursibs enter the teleportation tunnel Stinky and Periwinkle hug each one and thank them for coming.

Astrid and Lisbeth are the last to leave. The four kitties share a group hug. “Thank you for a wonderful party,” Astrid says. Lisbeth nods and says, “Yes, thank you so much!”

After seeing all their guests off, Periwinkle and Stinky head back into the cottage for a snack and then bed. Periwinkle asks “Stinky, I know they thanked us, but do you think Astrid and Lisbeth enjoyed their party and gift?”

“I am certain they did. And I think all our other fursibs did as well.”

“Oh good, I’m glad,” replies Periwinkle.

Good Night Friends

 

Two cartoon tabby cats in bed with a panda stuffy.

 

“Stinky, I love the new wreath on the wall in our bedroom and thank you so much for the adorable panda stuffy. You are the sweetest fiancé ever,” says Periwinkle as she gives Stinky a huge paw hug and whisker kiss. After several more hugs and kisses the tabbies settle down to sleep.

“Good night, Periwinkle. I love you.”

“Good night, Stinky. Sleep well. I love you too.”

The End

 

Periwinkle and Stinky will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. To join them there, click on the badge below.

 

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCC

300th Adventure

Stinky is always excited to see Periwinkle, but he is happier than usual, as they have excellent weather for today’s adventure, which will be outside. It has been so hot, humid and rainy, that he’d been thinking they wouldn’t be able to do what he planned.

As Stinky paces in front of the teleportation tunnel waiting for Periwinkle’s arrival, his mom brings him two bike helmets and reminds him to be extra careful. Moments later he sees the teleportation tunnel begin to vibrate, and Periwinkle pops out with a whoosh. He immediately drops the helmets so he can grab her. As usual, she is giggling but stops to give Stinky a kiss and paw hug, which he reciprocates. Before Periwinkle can speak, Stinky hands her a helmet, takes her paw and leads her to the back driveway.

When Periwinkle sees what is parked in the driveway, she starts firing questions at Stinky: “Stinky, is that a scooter? Do we get to ride on it? Is that why we have bike helmets? Where are we going?”

Dorothy Gillespie Abstract Mural

Stinky, replies, “Yes, yes, yes, around town to look at some of the murals. First, we are going to go downtown to see the first modern-era mural painted in 1979 by renown local artist, Dorothy Gillespie. So buckle up your helmet and let’s get a move on.”

 

Colorful abstract mural by Roanoke, Va. artist, Dorothy Gillespie.

 

As they admire Gillespie’s work, Stinky tells Periwinkle, “Advertising signs were painted on the sides of buildings primarily from the 1880s to the 1950s. We have many of those here in Roanoke. Of course, they faded over time. They are called ‘ghost signs.’ The same thing happened to Gillespie’s work. So, a couple of years ago, it was repainted by Jack Fralin of Best Bet Arts and Media.”

“It definitely is bright now Stinky,” exclaims Periwinkle.

“It is the only abstract mural we will see today,” Stinky tells Periwinkle, as he hops back on the Scooter, then takes her paw to help her up. As they head off, Stinky tells Periwinkle that they are heading back to his neighborhood to see one of his favorites.

Jon Murrill Murals

Stinky explains to Periwinkle that they only will be seeing murals by local artist, Jon Murrill. He is a professional muralist with an MS in Fine Arts from Radford University, concentrating in painting and drawing. He has also taught college-level courses in Watercolors, Drawing, Design, Art History and Art Appreciation.

 

two cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle & Stinky, celebrate their 300th adventure in front of a mural featuring a dirt biker and entitled, Giant of Wasena.

 

“This one is just a few blocks from my house, Periwinkle. The “Giant of Wasena” covers two sides of the building. This is the best part of it.” The tabbies hop off the scooter to get a closer look. After admiring this mural, Stinky tells Periwinkle they are headed to his second favorite, “Nature Train,” which celebrates Roanoke’s history as a railroad town.

 

Two cartoon tabby cats (Periwinkle & Stinky) standing in front of a mural of a train, entitled, "Nature Time."

 

“Stinky this reminds me of our adventure at the Transportation Museum in June, 2023. Let’s give our readers a link to that post.”

“Good idea, Periwinkle!” Here it is: The Virginia Museum of Transportation.

“Where to next, Stinky?”

“We are going to see a series of three murals from the “Lady Appalachia” series. The first is in the neighboring town of Vinton, the second in Stuart, Virginia and the third here in Roanoke. We’ll hop in the teleportation tunnel to visit the one in Stuart. In order these are: Lady Appalachia #1, Lady of the Pines and Lady of the River. The woman represented is local resident, Bri Aarons.”

 

Collage of three murals from the "Lady Appalachia" series by Jon Murrill located in Vinton, Stuart and Roanoke, VA..

 

“Let’s go check out another one, Periwinkle.”

 

Mural of an African American woman and colorful butterflies with the words, "#RoanokeVa," by Jon Murrill.

 

“Stinky I love all the stunning butterflies on this one. Does it have a name?”

“I couldn’t find one for it on-line,” Stinky replies.

“I am just going to call it ‘Gorgeous Butterflies,’” Periwinkle tells him. “What’s next?”

“Another, located not too far from my house in Grandin Village is entitled, ‘Mothers of the Forest.’ It is on the back of a restaurant and can be seen from the shop across the parking lot, which is Cardinal Bicycle.”

 

Mural of a cardinal with spread wings with two cartoon tabby cats, Periwinkle & Stinky," on a scooter in the foreground.

 

“Oh, Stinky, that was very clever to paint this mural here. I think this is my favorite. The colors are so vibrant.”

“Let’s check out just a couple more today, and then we can head home for a picnic and to celebrate our 300th adventure. Lot’s of the murals are on the Roanoke River Greenway where Mom and Dad ride the tandem and Dad rides his e-bike. This is one of the first ones they remember seeing.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats on a scooter wearing cycling helmets and admiring a mural of birds on the Roanoke River Greenway.

 

“The tabbies stop and admire the ‘I ❤️ SE’ mural, and then continue on to two additional murals on the Greenway.

 

A collage of two murals of birds on the Roanoke River greenway.

 

“This artist likes to paint birds it seems,” remarks Periwinkle.

“Yes, he does. There are lots more that we didn’t visit that have birds,” Stinky tells her. He continues, “Periwinkle, Jon Murrill is not the only local artist  painting murals in our area, and those of Murrill’s we saw today represent only a few of the stunning art created by him. So, we will do this again in order to share more of those murals. Plus, at some point we will have an adventure where we visit the stunning mosaic creations of Steve Paul. He’s the artist who did the mosaics on my house.” Periwinkle claps her paws together and tells Stinky she can’t wait for those future adventures.

“So are you ready to head home for that picnic and to celebrate our 300th adventure?” Stinky asks Periwinkle.

“Oh my cat, Stinky, I totally forgot this is our 300th adventure. Yes, yes, let’s celebrate with a picnic,” exclaims Periwinkle.

300th Adventure Picnic Time

 

Periwinkle and Stinky (cartoon tabby cats) share a picnic in a field of periwinkles for their 300th adventure.

 

Please join Periwinkle and Stinky and enjoy a piece of cake and some lemonade.

300th Adventure Cake for Periwinkle and Stinky

 

After Periwinkle and Stinky’s picnic, they head to the catio for a nap and visit with Stinky’s fursibs. Finally, the time arrives for Periwinkle to head home. She and Stinky spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing before Periwinkle enters the teleportation tunnel. Then with a wave and blown kiss, she is gone in a whoosh. Stinky returns to the catio for another nap and dreams of Periwinkle.

The End

Websites of Interest:

Jon Murrill
Cardinal News: Dorothy Gillespie
Dorothy Gillespie

Please join Periwinkle and Stinky at Comedy Plus for the Happy Tuesday blog hop by clicking on the badge below.

 

Thanks for joining Periwinkle and Stinky today for this memorable adventure.

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCXCVI

Stinky & Periwinkle are two cartoon tabby cats. Stinky is a Manx cat and doesn’t have a tail. They are alter egos of Sawyer, who lives in Virginia, and Noelle, who lives in Florida. They began as boyfriend and girlfriend but are now engaged. The tabbies alternate planning adventures, which they post on their blogs (The Cat on My Head and Friends Furever) on Tuesdays. The tabbies travel between locations in a cat play tunnel, which they refer to as a teleportation tunnel. They have shared more than 300 adventures.

National Lost Pet Prevention Month*

 

* Stinky is an imaginary, cartoon cat, so he never actually went missing. I have, however, written many posts as part of this series indicating he did. As most of you know, that was his alter ego, Sawyer. In an attempt to keep this post from becoming confusing, only Sawyer will be referenced as the missing cat.

As always, Stinky is impatient for Periwinkle’s arrival. Only seeing her once a week makes him quite lonely at times. He does not have to wait long, however, until he sees the teleportation tunnel begin to vibrate. Soon after, Periwinkle comes tumbling out in a whoosh into his waiting paws. Once Stinky sets her upright, they spend a few minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing.

Before Periwinkle can ask what Stinky has planned, he tells her, “I hope you don’t mind, but we will be staying home again today. We have some really important information to share with our friends. And, it is just so darn hot outside, I don’t really feel like going anywhere.”

“Okey dokey … as long as we are together, I’m happy,”  replies Periwinkle. “I think I might be able to guess what the important information is about. Is it National Lost Pet Prevention Month, as this is the time in 2021 when Sawyer went missing?”

“You are so smart. That is exactly right. We are going to give tips to help our friends find their kitty should it escape and disappear. Mom said she had her eyes on Sawyer one minute and then it was as if he went ‘poof.’”

“That was the most scary and heart-wrenching time of our lives, and both Noelle and I are so happy he has not tried that again.”

“So, today’s adventure is about what worked for my mom and dad as well as mom’s suggestions for any pet parents facing this situation.”

“Sounds purrfect, Stinky.”

Some Things to Keep in Mind

“When Sawyer decided he wanted to try his paw at living outdoors again, my Mom read every article she could to find what methods she should use to find him and bring him home. The list of tactics we are going to discuss is quite long. Some she found helpful and some useless.

“Some web-sites will tell you an indoor pet most likely will stay within 2 1/2 houses of home, and an outdoor or indoor/outdoor cat is probably within 17 houses of home. That may not seem far away when traveling up and down your own block, but if your cat is transversing from block to block, that can be 8 to 9 blocks away. An adult cat might travel as much as 1.5 miles per day. Additionally, a cat can sprint at up to 30 miles per hour and travel as much as 10 miles in a day,” Stinky informs Periwinkle.

“Stinky, I remember Sawyer ended up .9 miles from home, which is way beyond 17 houses away. That was still within that 1.5 miles, however, and he was gone for three-and-a-half weeks. He must have taken baby steps.”

Stinky giggles and reminds Periwinkle that this is a serious post before saying, “That’s right, Periwinkle, and he crossed a very busy street as well. If he’d traveled 10 miles every day, he would have been over 300 miles from home.”

Periwinkle gives Stinky a big paw hug and replies, “Yikes, we never would have found him. Thankfully, Sawyer didn’t do that.”

Best Tips for Getting Your Lost Pet Home

Collars & Microchips

“For starters, my mom recommends all cats wear collars with ID as well as any pertinent medical/vet information.”

 

National Lost Pet Prevention Month: Grey tabby cat with a tag identifying him as having seizures.

Sawyer with his “I Have Seizures” tag.

 

“If one is an indoor cat, why is a collar so important?” asks Periwinkle.

Stinky replies, “Even if a cat is microchipped, s/he is easier to identify with a visible collar. Also, if the kitty has an ID, it does not need to be taken to a vet or rescue to be scanned for a chip. Collars are now breakaway, so can easily be lost, but it is still a good tool. Raleigh is the first of the Kitties Blue that absolutely refuses to wear a collar, which makes Mom very nervous. As you know, he has escaped on two occasions. Though he never left the yard, it took Mom and Dad three-and-a-half days to get him back in the house the second time.”

“Even with a collar and ID, cats should still have a microchip shouldn’t they?” asks Periwinkle.

“Yes, definitely. And some microchip companies provide a tag that can be put on a cat’s collar. Pet parents need to make certain the microchip company always has their current contact information. And they should be notified if the cat goes missing.”

 

National Lost Pet Prevention Month: Ginger tabby cat wearing a tag identifying him as being microchipped.

Cooper Murphy with his PetLink microchip tag.

 

Locator Tags

“Many companies offer locator tags that can be placed on a pet’s collar. Sawyer did not have one of those when he took off. Now he wears one as do Kizmet and Audrey. Kizmet is an escape artist, and Audrey has a tendency to have her collar pulled off when wrestling with Raleigh or Kizmet. They all wear Apple AirTags. Pet parents can check the internet for other brands and recommendations.”

Searching for Your Cat

Do this everyday. Include garages, basements, sheds and crawl spaces on your property and that of your neighbors. Don’t forget to look up in trees and on roofs.

 

Mauricio in a tree.

Misty May on the roof.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Stinky, I remember Sawyer used to get on the roof before your Mom and Dad blocked access.”

The best times to search are dawn and dusk, as cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during low-light hours. Also, this is when it is more quiet outside and frightened pets are more likely to venture from a hiding place. If you searched an area once, don’t dismiss searching again. Many pets are not found as their humans become fatigued by the searching, give up and stop.

Social Media

Get your pet’s photo and relevant information on all the lost pet web-sites. Start with the local ones like your neighborhood forum and ones for adjacent neighborhoods. Some sites are listed below. You will find others by searching, “Lost Cats” on the internet. “My mom used the first two plus another she can no longer find listed on-line,” Stinky says. (Click on the listings to go to any of these web-sites.)

1. PawBoost
2. Lost My Kitty
3. PetRadar
4. Petco Love/Lost
5. Pet FBI
6. Petkey

“Periwinkle, these sites should be checked daily to see if one’s cat has been found and listed,” advises Stinky. My mom has listed Cooper Murphy and two other cats that were hanging around that she didn’t recognize.”

Avoid listing on Craig’s List. Many scams have been associated with individuals falsely claiming to have a person’s cat and requesting money to return it.

Animal Control & Rescues/Shelters

Contact Animal Control, all local rescues and shelters, your vet and any vet offices in your area. Some of the web-sites listed above will do this for you for free or a small fee. But call or drop by with a lost pet poster anyway. Make certain they all know your pet is microchipped (if it is).

Posters, Flyers & Signs

Posters: Sites like PawBoost and Lost My Kitty create a poster/flyer for you that you can print. For posters, place them inside a plastic cover before putting them up. And change them out if your pet is still missing after a week to ten days. “Mom started with a PawBoost poster and switched out to a Lost My Kitty poster, each with a different photo. This will make people look again, not knowing if it is the same lost pet they had seen on the previous poster,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

“That’s a great idea, Stinky. It reminds people that the kitty is still missing,” comments Periwinkle.

“That’s right. It is equally important to take all those posters down when the cat is found or returns home on its own.”

Flyers: Deliver these in your neighborhood to residences and businesses and ask business if you can post on a bulletin board or in the front window. Personally talk to as many individuals as possible while doing this.

Signs: Make a sign for your yard that is highly visible to passersby both on foot and in vehicles. Include a photo of your pet, contact telephone numbers and any other information that might help you locate your cat. “See how Mom included the information that Sawyer is tailless. That made him more easily identifiable.”

 

National Lost Pet Prevention Month: Cartoon tabby cat sitting in front of a "Lost Cat" sign for a grey, tabby cat named, Sawyer.

 

“Stinky, I remember that your mom said this was probably one of the main things she did that helped bring Sawyer home.”

“That’s right, Periwinkle. A lady who walked her dog by our house remembered the sign when she saw a photo of Sawyer listed as “found” on a nearby neighborhood forum,” replies Stinky. “She contacted Mom and then met her at the house where Sawyer was spotted to help search.”

“Wow, that sure was nice of her!”

 

National Lost Pet Prevention Month: Small grey, tabby cat lost outside.

Sawyer’s “Found” photo.

 

“Periwinkle, you know it took Mom several hours to catch Sawyer and bring him home. Even though she didn’t locate him right away, she never left the neighborhood where he had been seen, That is a very important for pet parents to remember.”

Other (Not Recommended) Suggestions

“Periwinkle, my mom received additional suggestions from friends and other bloggers as well as discovered others on-line. Though, I am listing them, they have proven to be less than or not helpful as reported by others and verified by my mom after trying some of them.”

1. Place your cat’s litter box outside.
2. Place a piece of clothing belonging to the pet’s human outside.
3. If you have no additional pets, leave the door or window open from which the cat originally exited the house.
4. Put out a Have-A-Heart trap with stinky food in it. (This will more than likely attract a neighbor’s pet or a wild critter such as a possum, skunk or groundhog.)
5. If your cat is treat motivated and not afraid of strangers, hand out small bags of cat treats to your neighbors to use to entice your cat should they see it.

“Stinky, that last one might have worked for Sawyer had he not left the neighborhood and wasn’t such a fraidy cat,” comments Periwinkle.

“Maybe so, Periwinkle.”

“I really hope all this information will be useful should the cats of any of our friends go missing.”

“Me too, Periwinkle. But I also hope my mom and dad never face this situation again.”

Snack Time

“Now that we have finished providing all this helpful information, Periwinkle, would you like a snack?”

“I thought you’d never ask,” Periwinkle says with a giggle.

“As I said earlier, it is super duper hot outside, but let’s go to the front porch. There is a ceiling fan there.”

 

Two cartoon tabby cats having snacks on a porch.

 

After they have eaten, it is time for Periwinkle to head home. Before she leaves, Stinky promises to take her someplace extra special for their adventure in two weeks. Periwinkle throws her paws around Stinky and gives him a huge hug. He then takes her paw and leads Periwinkle to the teleportation tunnel where they share several more paw hugs as well as whisker kisses. Then Periwinkle enters the tunnel and with a final wave and blown kiss, she is gone in a whoosh.

Stinky returns to the house to cool off, nap and dream of Periwinkle.

The End

 

Pet Prevention graphic at head post created by the Cat Blogosphere for use by bloggers. All photos are by the author or the author’s spouse and used with permission, except the one of lost Sawyer, which was provided by the individual who found him. As Sawyer went missing in 2021, I no longer have that person’s name.

Information on how far lost cats travel is from PawBoost, Missing Animal Response Network and Vet Explains Cats.

HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY SWEET SAWYER

Happy Tuesday Birthday

What better way to celebrate Happy Tuesday than with a birthday, especially when it is Sawyer’s. That he has reached his eighth birthday is a surprise and a blessing. We honestly never dreamed he would be with us this long when we found out about his seizure disorder, and we were unable to get the seizures to stop without the intervention of the veterinarians at the Emergency Vet and/or our own vet.

We pray he will enjoy many more years and that the new delivery system for his phenobarbital will provide better control of those seizures.

 

A birthday card with a photo of a grey tabby cat, Sawyer, who turns eight today.

 

Of course, Cooper Murphy happily baked a cake for him. As the Fourth of July is just a few days away, Cooper selected a red, white and blue theme. And look at the cake topper … he captured Sawyer purrfectly.

 

A red, white and blue birthday cake with a grey tabby cat topper for the 8th birthday of cat, Sawyer.

 

Please join us in a piece of cake. We do have some beverages and catnip ice cream as well.

 

The real party for Sawyer, however, is at Friends Furever. Periwinkle & Noelle have planned a party for Stinky and Sawyer, which I believe is a surprise. It will be Periwinkle and Stinky’s Adventure for the week.

I am so grateful to Periwinkle and Noelle as well as Mom Sharon for planning this for our special boys. I hope you will stop in and join the party. You can do so by clicking on Periwinkle & Stinky’s badge.

And Kitties Blue will be participating in the Happy Tuesday blog hop hosted by Sandee at Comedy Plus. If you would also like to do so, click on the Happy badge.

Thanks for stopping in today.

 

New E-mail Address: KittiesBlue@thecatonmyhead.com

 

THE ADVENTURES OF PERIWINKLE & STINKY: PART CCXCIV

World Cat Domination Day

Stinky is pretty excited for today’s adventure, as today is a day that is all about cats. Stinky is thinking to himself: It’s Cat World Domination Day, a holiday created by Janiss Garza for her now angel cat, Sparkle’s 10th birthday back in 2012. For centuries, we cats have been treated like royalty and gods … just as it should be, and a day to celebrate that seemed like a great idea.

Stinky talks outloud to himself: “Some individuals do not realize just how smart we are. My mom knows better. She is certain we could dominate and take over the world, but we’d rather be waited upon with humans catering to our every whim and need. Hmmm … guess that actually is domination. Way to go cats!”

Stinky realizes there has been a lot of celebrating lately at the home of Kitties Blue. Callista Jo’s birthday was June 20 and Kizmet’s was just yesterday, June 23. But today is for all cats, including cartoon ones like Stinky and Periwinkle.

While Stinky is contemplating how he and Periwinkle might celebrate, he sees the teleportation tunnel begin to vibrate. A moment later Periwinkle comes tumbling out with a whoosh. Stinky rushes to help her up, and the two tabbies spend several minutes paw hugging and whisker kissing.

Stinky’s Health Update

When they finish, Periwinkle asks Stinky, “How have you been doing since you started getting your phenobarbital transdermally? Any seizures?”

“I have only been getting it that way for a few days, and I did have a seizure in the living room after Mom and Dad went to sleep Saturday night. Getting my noms without meds in them is terrific, but I cannot say I am enjoying this new delivery system. I do not like being picked up and held by my humans. But I am getting treats afterwards,” Stinky replies. Stinky continues, “Dad got really frustrated with me a few nights ago, as he couldn’t catch me. Thankfully, Mom remained calm, and eventually the deed was done. But I don’t want to talk about that anymore.”

“Alrighty then. I do want to tell you, however, how sorry I am to hear about the most recent seizure.” Periwinkle gives Stinky a big paw hug and then asks, “So what’s on the agenda?”

“World Cat Domination Day.”

“Yippee, a day just for us,” exclaims Periwinkle as she claps her front paws together. “How are we going to celebrate?”

Celebrating

“Kitties Blue have been acknowledging this special day every year, but they really have never done anything to actually celebrate. They have always thought with seven to nine of us in residence at any given time that they dominate everyday. And, they would be right. That, however, is not how it is for every cat,” Stinky replies.

“That’s very true, Stinky. So let’s brainstorm some ideas for ways humans can spoil their cats treat their kitties like the royalty they are.”

“We can take turns coming up with ideas. And, let’s do ladies first.”

“Mmmm … okay,” replies Periwinkle. “I am going to begin with your favorite thing.

TREATS

“Treats are essential and a terrific way to reward a cat for good behavior. Not that we cats ever get into trouble.” Periwinkle looks directly at Stinky and snickers but doesn’t say anything. Stinky gives her the stink eye, and adds. “Most treats are high in calories, so humans should not overfeed.” Stinky giggles after saying that, as everyone knows he is addicted to treats. “Treat puzzles are good idea for those who tend to over-indulge,” adds Periwinkle.

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats enjoy treats and treat puzzles.

 

CATNIP

“Not all felines are nip heads. Some do not like or respond to catnip, but it also is a nice treat for one’s cat(s) that do. If you have a place to grow it, your kitties will be delighted. But if not, many good brands of dry can be found in stores and on-line,” advises Stinky.

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats enjoying catnip.

 

TOYS

“Both interactive toys, such as wand toys and red dot (laser) toys, and ones we can play with by ourselves, like springs and catnip-filled ones, offer entertainment and help us expend energy to keep us fit. This is particularly important for inside kitties, which can become couch potatoes,” advises Periwinkle. Stinky giggles, and says “Oh, just like Calista Jo!”

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats enjoying toys.

 

ENTERTAINMENT

Stinky tells Periwinkle, “This can include toys, but also cat trees or beds in front of windows for bird and critter watching. Bird feeders are a nice way to ensure something to watch. TV and YouTube also have lots of videos just for cats. Kizmet likes watching and participating in sports on TV as well. Computer games for cats can be fun. Kitties Blue even have their own iPad.”

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats watching other critters.

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats watching TV and playing on an iPad.

 

ATTENTION

“Some of us like being pet or groomed, enjoy chin scratches, hugs and even belly rubs but on our terms. So, do not try to force your feline into accepting your attention when they are not in the mood. You could get scratched or bitten,” advises Periwinkle. “My humans know I do not really enjoy any of those things, as hands frighten me. I do allow my mom to kiss me on the head,” comments Stinky.

BOXES, BAGS, BEDS AND CUBBIES

“Humans should provide lots of these. We kitties like to feel safe and secure. A heated bed is nice, especially in the winter time and for senior kitties,” remarks Stinky.

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Collage of cats in beds and boxes.

 

Some Important but Maybe Not Fun Stuff

“Stinky, I think we should mention some practical things as well,” remarks Periwinkle.

“Good idea. Even royalty require the necessities.” responds Stinky.

FOOD

“Felines should always be provided with quality food. It is important for humans to remember that we are obligate carnivores. Also, nothing is more frustrating than an empty noms bowl. If you have ever wondered why we cats think our bowl is empty after we have only eaten the food from the very center, here is the answer. Our vision is not that great when items are right in front of us. We have a blind spot below our nose and chins. And our vision in human terms is only 20/100 to 20/200,” reports Periwinkle.

“Yikes, I wonder why we can see a little speck of a bug when our humans can’t?” muses Stinky.

“Stinky,  I know the answer to that. Some of the reasons are that we have superior motion detection, enhanced low-light vision and a wider field of vision, including better peripheral vision,” replies Periwinkle.

“Wow, Periwinkle, you are a smartypants. Thanks for clearing that up,” enthuses Stinky.

WATER

“Always make certain your kitty has lots of fresh, clean water available in several places around the house and on the catio if they have one. Fountains are best, but some people may not be able to afford them. Whether it is a bowl or fountain, make sure it is glass, ceramic or stainless steel. Many kitties are allergic to plastic,” Stinky tells Periwinkle.

CLEAN LITTER BOXES

“Humans don’t like dirty, stinky restrooms, Stinky, and we cats are no different. I know you have lots of litter boxes in your house and some remove waste automatically. How’s that working out?”

“Good, those who like them use them, and those who don’t use the regular ones. Raleigh keeps throwing the litter out of one of the auto ones which gets Dad frustrated, but as you know, Raleigh is his own man.” Periwinkle nods her head and giggles.

VET VISITS

Before Stinky can even say anything, Periwinkle pipes up, “Yikes, Stinky, you have got to be kidding me!”

He replies, “Okay, I don’t like going to the vet, either, which is why I have the reputation of being a PTU Pooper, but if we are going to stay healthy and dominate, those annual visits are important, especially if like me, a kitty has health issues.”

“I guess you are right, but I do not think we need to say any more about that,” says Periwinkle.

In Conclusion

“You know, Stinky we could go on and on telling our readers all the things that are important for cats to continue in their exalted roles as head of their households. And other than those extra treats and possibly the catnip, felines deserve and should expect nothing less from their humans than the things we mentioned.”

“That’s correct, Periwinkle. Humans are here to do our bidding at all times. Even if we had opposable thumbs, we wouldn’t use them. Cats have been revered and waited on for more than 10,000 years, and that is exactly as it should be. After all, cats rule, and humans should never forget that. So, let’s go find my mom or dad and get some treats.”

“I’m right behind you.”

“Periwinkle, we have to stay inside today to have our treats, as we are under an extreme heat advisory. I hope that’s okay.”

“No problem, Stinky. I do see a few of your fursibs have decided to join us.”

“They heard me say treats. I should have whispered!”

 

Periwinkle Stinky Cat World Domination: Two cartoon cats and three real cats enjoy treats at a kitchen island.

 

The End

Supporting Characters in This Post

Angels Giulietta, Lilly Olivia and Mau”ricio”.

Astrid, Audrey, Cooper Murphy, Lisbeth, Raleigh and Sawyer.

If you are unfamiliar with any of these Kitties Blue, click on “The Felines” from the menu at the top of this page.

Periwinkle, Stinky and Stinky’s fursibs will be joining the Happy Tuesday blog hop at Comedy Plus. If you would like to take part, click on the Happy badge.