Sweet Praline

Remembering . . .

2011-12-31T00:01:00.000-05:00

As 2012 approaches tomorrow, I just wanted to take a moment to remember Sweet Praline.

You'll always be remembered and loved my little Diva!

Memory Post - Tocktober

2011-10-20T00:01:00.001-04:00

Mom Paula: I just had to post a memory post of Praline and her famous "tocks" for Tocktober in honor of Derby's birthday.

Praline's tocks - October 2010

Praline's Tocks - October 2009

LiveStrong 2011

2011-10-02T08:22:00.000-04:00

Mom Paula: LiveStrong at the Bridge my Sweet Praline.

Memory Post - Praline's Birthday Slumber Party

2011-09-25T00:01:00.003-04:00

Praline would have celebrated her sweet 16 birthday today. I wanted to honor her memory with this memory post of her birthday slumber party for her 14th birthday. A lot of kitties and woofies participated in this special birthday and sadly, many of them are no longer with us today. Praline lived a rich 15 1/2 years and was loved deeply and will always hold a special place in my heart. It's only been 5 months since she left for the Bridge, but little Truffle is helping fill that hole in my heart.

I hope you remember Praline with a smile today as you take a trip down memory lane.

Happy Birthday, my Sweet Angel Praline.

Mom Paula

Hello everyone! Welcome to my 14th birthday and to my special Slumber Party. The response to my invitation was overwhelming with over 60 kitties staying the night in our special Southern home in South Carolina. Mom has cleaned off the beds, pulled out the pillows, popped some kitty korn, spread out the nip toys, put in the kitty movies and even the valerian root ice pack for my special guests!

This is my baby picture from 1995. Mom says she never gets tired of seeing my cute little face with the big, "owl" eyes! I've come a long way in 14 years and hope I have many more. I may be an "old" ladycat, but I've still got lots of spirit and spunk.

For those of you who could stay overnight, I hope you enjoy the party and take home a treat from my birthday baskets.

I just can't find my Topini Treats in the U.S. anymore!

Everyone had a blast at the party and now it's time to sleep. Now everyone knows that not all kitties sleep at a slumber party. I hope you enjoyed your visit and can come to my party next year.

Have a look at all of my overnight guests.

A few woofies wanted to drop by! That's okay because they can patrol the grounds for introoders. I'm not sure how much patroling will get done since Khyra and Sydney appear to be pooped! I was thrilled that Khyra could join me since he is so well known in the CB. Mr. Jones, Spot and Sydney are my cousins and are always welcome. Mom was so glad to see them!

I think Bennett was keeping a watchful eye that no one would get in his special tent. Armani was trying to get belly scritches from my mom! Mom couldn't resist!

Now, this group of kitties I need to keep an eye on because while everyone was asleep, they were watchful. Hope no one gets their underwear put in the freezer. Hee! Hee! That's what mom says used to happen when she went to slumber parties as a teenager.

Now, I just love Miss Zoey from Zoolatry, but she had to out do everyone with her special sleeping bag. She also insisted that she had to put curlers in her hair to compete with Daisy. Wonder why Zoey left Maggy home?

Don't you just love Siena and Chilli snuggling up together. It was an honor for them to come from across the pond to attend my party. Better keep an eye out for Lester because he is wide-eyed and up to no good. I think Mr. Tigger got into the stinky goodness!

The Friends FurEver group came up a day early to help me prepare for the Slumber Party. I think they are a little exhausted, but I appreciated their help.

Now, this is a sleep group of kitties. I decided to join them to catch a little cat nap.

I think Samson got hold of my Valerian Root Ice Pack! He's out for the night!

The crew from Peggy's Place is keeping a watchful eye on everyone (except for Isis and Bob, who needed a nap after playing with the nip cigar!). Reese insisted on bringing her "Reese Box" to sleep in, but she let me try it out for a few minutes. Wasn't that nice of her?

Little Melvin's mom let him come over tonight as long as my mom chaperoned him since he isn't a mancat yet. Isn't he adorable? Minchie and Pandora just curled up and made themselves right at home!

Maggie Mae and Saylor got caught trying to sleep in mom's bed!

Several kitties are international travelers and made their way to the United States. Ginger Jasper came from England, Huffle came from Australia and Jasmine came from Brazil. Don't tell anyone, but Gemini tried to sneak in Chey for a few minutes, but she had to leave before anyone found her. I think she took my Siamese pillow with her for cover!

Fin was the first to grab the sink for the night and dared anyone to take it from her. She is a senior ladycat like me!

Of course, then we have the "fancy ladycats" (except for Ollie) for the evening that insisted on bringing special PJs and spa attire. Miss Daisy was the hit of the evening with her lounging robe! Don't know why Ollie wanted a curler in his hair. I think he was jealous of Daisy's curls, too!

I'm so glad Miss Billie was able to join me. She turned 14 this year, too and she was giving me lots of advice. Then, Bhu showed up! I think he is keeping an eye out for Romeo and Ginger Jasper!

Don't you love Eric's stuffed twin?

Dante and Domino insisted on wearing special PJs for the party. Dylan likes to sleep in the "raw". Mr. Tuck is just plain tuckered out!

Mom just found Stripes and Penjy hiding in the back closet. I must confess, I showed them my favorite hiding place. So glad the two of you could join us.

Mom went outside to get some more litter and she found Emma sleeping on the cabinet in the storage room. She invited Emma inside to join the others. Doesn't she look like she has been up to something?

Uh oh! Looks like someone is continuing the relationship that started on AS THE PAW TURNS. I am snuggled between my two main mancat squeezes: Ginger Jasper and Bhu. What a wonderful evening!

Thank you to everyone who helped make my 14th birthday so special!

“Hat Day” Comment-a-Thon for SAS

2011-08-24T00:42:00.001-04:00

Sweet Praline was lucky enough to be hatted by Sammy and Andy in October, 2010. Here's her diva photo in her special Southern Belle hat.

For every comment that is received, I'll donate 25 cents to SAS to help them in this tough situation in memory of Sweet Praline.

Memory Post for World Cat Day

2011-08-08T00:01:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone! The date is quickly approaching that Truffle and Beignet will come home to live with me. I truly believe that Sweet Praline has had a paw in the decision to bring home this beautiful brother and sister and that she will be here in spirit helping me raise them.

A few weeks ago after coming home from Auntie Deb's and the Taylor Catsssss, I went through a major depression again. Auntie Deb's family was so loving and the Taylor Catsssss kept me amused and I had a kitty in my lap every time I sat down. I believe when I got home, I realized how lonely it was in my house without Sweet Praline. I was crying every day at any hour during the day at the "drop of a hat." It was during this time that Sweet Praline's spirit appeared to me.

I was sitting on my couch with tears streaming down my face, missing Sweet Praline one night. I thought I saw a movement from the corner of the hallway coming into my living room where Praline would always stop before coming in to sit with me. I looked over at the hallway and Praline was standing there, as clear as could be, for a few seconds!!! Then she was gone. It was as if she were telling me that she was still here and that everything would be okay. I always heard people talk about literally "seeing" past relatives or pets after they were gone, but I experienced it first hand. Terri told me that I was so lucky to have that special connection with Sweet Praline.

Praline at the corner of the hallway

When God Created Kitty Cats

When God created kitty cats,
He had no recipe;
He knew He wanted something sweet,
As sweet as sweet could be.

He started out with sugar,
Adding just a trace of spice;
Then stirred in drops of morning dew,
To keep them fresh and nice.

He thought cats should be soft to pet,
Thus He gave them coats of fur;
So they could show they were content,
He taught them how to purr.

He made for them long tails to wave,
While strutting down the walk;
Then trained them in meow-ology,
So they could do cat-talk.

He made them into acrobats,
And gave them grace and poise;
Their wide-eyed curiosity,
He took from little boys.

He put whiskers on their faces,
Gave them tiny ears for caps;
Then shaped their little bodies,
To snugly fit on laps.

He gave them eyes as big as saucers,
To look into man's soul;
Then set a tolerance for mankind,
As their purpose and their goal.

Benevolent ... and ... generous,
He made so many of them;
Then charged, with Fatherly Concern,
The human race to love them.

When one jumped up upon His lap,
God gently stroked its head;
The cat gave Him a kitty kiss,
"What wondrous love," God said.

God smiled at His accomplishment,
So pleased with His creation;
And said, with pride, as He sat back,
"At last. . . I've reached purr-fection!"

Sweet Praline will always be a part of my heart and soul. I love you, my little Diva!

New Blog for Future Kittens

2011-07-13T15:14:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to let all of you know that followed Sweet Praline's blog that I've set up a new blog for my future furchildren. I will not shut down this blog, but wanted a fresh start for the new kittens that will arrive in September. Please come and visit at Sweet Purrfections.

http://sweetpurrfections.blogspot.com/

Remembering Sweet Praline with a Smile

2011-06-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

This has been both the happiest and one of the saddest posts that I've done for Sweet Praline, because it's officially the "last" consecutive post for three years today! Today would have been her 3rd Blogoversary! I've met so many wonderful people and kitties (and a few woofies) during this three year period and some have become really good friends! I am proud to say that I posted 1,105 days in a row for Sweet Praline so you can imagine how hard it was to narrow down the photos for the slide show below. I wanted to include pictures from Praline's 15 1/2 years, the 3 years with the CB, and some you may not have seen. Some will make you smile, some will make you laugh, some will make you say "awwwwww", but the music is sure to make you cry, so have tissues ready. I wanted to record these three songs myself since the day Praline went to the Bridge, but I just couldn't get through "Smile" or "The Way We Were" without crying. The second song is a song called "Always", which I had already recorded, so it's actually me singing between Michael Jackson and Barbra Streisand! Enough talk, I hope you enjoy my final tribute to Sweet Praline (it's a little long)!

If you have trouble viewing the video through the CB, you can view it on YouTube.

For those of you who aren't on FB, I left a message this week that said, "If everything goes well, I should have some new furchildren (notice the plural) in my house in about 12 weeks! Stay tuned . . ." I don't want to jinx anything, so that is why I'm not giving much information yet. In about 5-6 weeks, I can give you some definite information and will share it on the CB. Let's just say that there should either be two sisters or a brother and sister by the end of the summer. There will be a new blog, but Praline will definitely be a part of it!

Sweet Praline's blog wouldn't have been possible without all of the contributions from Ann of Zoolatry. She was/is so generous with her time and talents, even with all that she has on her plate. I thought you may enjoy the various headers over the past three years. (hmmmmm - just had an idea for a "flashback Friday" with the graphics Ann has done for Praline) Thank you, Ann! I'll be coming back to you when the new "kids" come to live with me.

The collage below is from the various tributes on the CB for Sweet Praline. I hope I didn't miss anyone, but if I did, please send me the picture/graphic.

This is not Good-bye, just an "I'll see you later!" I love you!

Mom Paula and Angel Praline

Memory Lane - Outtakes Collage

2011-06-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

I always tried to show Sweet Praline in her "best light" because of the diva that she was, but sometimes, there were pictures that just didn't show her best side. I thought I would share just a few with you here!

Be sure to come back tomorrow for the last "official" post for Sweet Praline's blog. I wanted to sing another song for the background, but everytime I tried to record it, I couldn't get through the words and would start crying. I've actually downloaded Nat King Cole singing it and hopefully YouTube will let it play tomorrow. I'll be working on the slide show all day today, so I really hope it works out. Tomorrow would have been Sweet Pralines 3rd Blogoversary!

I'm not shutting down the blog, just taking a little break so I can heal. The Memory Lane posts have really helped with my grieving process, but I need to have some closure for now. There will be some random posts for special events and I will keep this blog open so all (especially me) can come back and remember our little Diva!

Keep your eyes and ears open (especially on FB recently) for some new developments at Mom Paula's house by the end of the summer!

Memory Lane - Nurse Praline Video

2011-06-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

This is one of the first videos I shared on the CB almost 3 years ago. I had just had foot surgery (as you can see by the shoe on my foot and the bruise on my hand from the IV) and was giving Praline one of her well deserved petting session after she had been so good "nursing" me through the surgery. One of the unique things about Praline was that she "swished" her tail when she was happy. Have a great weekend!

Memory Lane - Tummy Collage

2011-06-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

If I have one picture of Praline exposing her floofy tummy, I must have thousands!!! That little diva loved to exposed herself for all of the world to see. She was also unique in that she loved to have her tummy rubbed. Here are a few more pictures of Praline's tummy that you may not have seen before.

Memory Lane - Beautiful Baby Video

2011-06-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

I posted this video back on January 1, 2009 for one of the special events on the CB. I think this slide show has every single picture I had of Baby Praline (or Pralinette as Khyra would say) and I love the upbeat music behind the slides. Hopefully, YouTube will let the music play, so you can enjoy the full effect. If it doesn't play, just imagine "You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby" playing in the background.

This slide show brought a smile to my face today when I was posting it! I hope it brings one to yours today, too!

Memory Lane - Teenage Tortie Collage

2011-05-31T00:01:00.000-04:00

I know you haven't seen these pictures. You can tell from the quality that they are much older pictures. These are some more pictures of Praline when she was a young ladycat (between 3 - 7 years). Even though the quality of the photos aren't great (pre-digital), the object in the pictures is beautiful. The bottom right picture was before Praline was even 1-year old. She line you see on her tummy is her scar from her lady gardenectomy!

Thank you for all of the kind comments yesterday. I was just feeling a little "blue" and feeling sorry for myself. Even when new furchildren come to live with me, Sweet Praline will always be a part of my life and theirs.

Memory Lane - Laser Eye Collage

2011-05-30T00:01:00.011-04:00

These pictures never made it into Praline's blog because I always wanted to show off her beautiful eyes. However, when looking at these, they are so funny to look at now because they tend to show the "diva" side of her, demanding she gets what she wanted. I hope you enjoy these!

Please purr for me as I post this week. I thought it was going to be easy to stop Praline's blog, but I'm finding it harder to do the posts because I know the end is coming and I'm not really sure I'm ready for that. I miss that little stinker and she'll always be in my heart, but I know I have enough love to give more furchildren in the future. In the meantime, I am still working through my grief. Thanks for all of your support.

I know this is last year's graphic for Memorial Day, but I wanted to honor Praline along with our military heroes today as it is Memorial Day in the United States. This is the graphic that was used in last year's post with Sweet Praline to remember those in our military who gave their lives for our freedom.

Return Engagement: AS THE PAW TURNS - Outtakes

2011-05-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

I hope all of you enjoyed the first showing of AS THE PAW TURNS. We had lots of fun presenting this to the CB and hope to do it again in the future. I think all of my fellow castmates are deserving of an Oscar and Emmy for their performances. Now, it's off to Broadway for me!

Of course, as with all actors, there were some spoiled kitties during the production (besides me!). I wanted to share some of these moments with you.

Bhu from Patty Skypants

Romeo from Peggy's Place

Melvin from Mouchois

Khyra from Khyra's Korner

Goma from My Himalayan Cat "Goma"

Ginger Jasper

and me, Sweet Praline

Hey! How did Maggy get by without an out take?

I hope everyone enjoyed the return engagement of AS THE PAW TURNS in memory of Sweet Praline. I must admit, it brought back a lot of smiles to my face (and a few tears). I'll continue with Memory Lane posts for one more week, until next Sunday, which would have been Sweet Praline's 3rd Blogoversary. It will be sad to stop posting, but I promise I will be back and I will visit after a short break. There's still a lot of healing to do and preparations for the future.

Return Engagement - AS THE PAW TURNS - The Party

2011-05-28T00:01:00.003-04:00

I forgot that Inigo had a part in AS THE PAW TURNS! What a wonderful tribute to this handsome angel, too!

We left Mayor G. Jasper taking a nap and having sweet dreams of Praline and Maggy, thinking everything was all set for the party at Sweet Praline's cottage. Luckily for him, the phone rang and woke him up. Sweet Praline purred into the phone, "GJ, what time would you like me to be at your house to help you set up?" Mayor Jasper was too embarrassed to let his sweetheart know that he forgot it was at his house, so he told her that everything was already set up and she just needed to plan on an evening being pampered! As soon as he hung up the phone, he immediately called Inigo Flufflebum and d'Artangan Rumblepurr Catering and Partying Consultants, the best in the village of Furville. When they heard the "last minute" party was being hosted by Sweet Praline, they immediately responded with "yes! we'd love to help." Mayor Jasper sighed as he hung up the phone and looked at the green papers he would need to deduct from his upcoming campaign tour. However, he knew it was worth it for Sweet Praline. Thank goodness she called him and woke him up.

The scene fades to Mayor Jasper's house . . .

Mayor G.Jasper, "I've called you all here this evening at the request of Sweet Praline, the village Diva. She truly believes that we can all get along, without hissing and swatting and the rivalry among us. In fact, perhaps we can teach the humans a lesson about that (they do need it now don't they?). I've invited you here to my humble abode (we mayoral types are poorly paid!) so we can share food and nip."

Praline: "Thank you, Your Honor. As you said, I do believe we can all become furriends and still enjoy each other's company."

Mayor G.Jasper: "Will you all take your seats at the table please? The humans wish to begin serving us." (He clapped his paws and Paula, Peggy, Ann, Sachie, Rone, and Carol jumped to attention and begin serving the group.)

Praline: "May I sit beside you, Your Honor?"

Mayor G. Jasper: "Of course, dearest."

The Mayor (again): "Bhu, get out of your bag and come to the table. Romeo, I know you're tired, but sleeping on the table is totally not permitted in my home, move to your chair please!"

Bhu: "I like being in the bag, or in a box, or behind something, or under something... or, or... oh well, I'll sit if I must."

Romeo: "Stop complaining GJ, I did one-hundred-and-one surgeries today! I worked far harder than any old civil servant like you, and I'm am tired! But, out of deference to your position, I'll be seated."

The Mayor (again): "Goma, get off the sidebar and come join us. Melvin, you too, put your mousie away and come to the table, Mouchois."

Goma: "But you know I can get much better photographs from over here, and I do have to publish tomorrow in both the political section and the social pages! Though I am concerned GJ, about it being "free advertising" for your next mayoral run in 2010; will I have to give equal space to the other candidates?"

Melvin: "I don't wanna come to the table. I mean I do wanna come to the table. I don't wanna sit in that high chair, that's for baby-kitties, and I am growing big now. Besides, where I go, my mousey goes!"

The Mayor (again, with a heavy sigh): "Goma, you can take pictures after dinner. And don't get all hissy about the advertising, I'll give you green papers if you insist! Melvin, just push your high chair up to the table by Romeo please; I have no other chair. Besides, Romeo will cut up your tuna cakes for you, since you're not allowed to use a knife yet."

Praline: "Shame for shame! You are all fussing and arguing over the silliest little things. This is not a good way to start our evening of harmony and getting along together."

The Mayor (frowning): "And so where is Maggy? Didn't she come, or is she late as usual?"

Praline: "Mmmm, Uuhh, she's way back there in the corner. She says she won't join us unless Khyra can come to!"

The Mayor (totally exasperated now): "OK, OK... Khyra please join us. After all... wouldn't you all agree that's a very good way to begin getting along?"

Everyone, in unison: "Yes, oh yes it is. Purrs all."

Praline: "And that dear friends is "how the paw turns". It turns towards you, with friendship."

In the meantime, Sweet Praline touches both Mayor Jasper's and Bhu's paws under the table and little Melvin spots them while he is retrieving his mousie . . .

To be continued one of these days . . .

Tomorrow - Out takes from the show of all of the cast!

It's so sad we were never able to have another soap opera with Diva Praline, but she was definitely a star in this show. Please come back tomorrow for outtakes from the series. They are so funny.

Return Engagement - As the Paw Turns: The Meeting

2011-05-27T00:01:00.002-04:00

Sweet Praline is exhausted, both physically and emotionally. She has discovered that her best girlcat, Maggy has been seeing Bhu, Romeo, and Ginger Jasper too. She calls Miss Zoey for a special spa day.

Sweet Praline goes to the Furrsville Salon & Spa for her daily floofing and Zoey has worked her in to have her "highlights" brightened and a complete body massage. After a great day with Khyra on the motorcycle, Maggy has come for her weekly nail trim and a paw massage. To their surprise, Zoey has secretly booked them both into the same room at the same time (That little Zoey is a great prankster!). Zoey slowly closes the door on Praline and Maggy.

The intimacy and quiet of the salon allows Praline and Maggy to chat amicably. They agree that the ongoing rivalry between them is of no benefit and they must find a way that all can live happily with one another in Furrsville. After all, Praline and Maggy have been friends since the cradle and no mancat should come between them. Praline immediately texts the Mayor (G. Jasper) requesting he call everyone together for dinner that evening at his home...

Mayor G. Jasper quickly spreads the word around town about the evenings' big event at Sweet Praline's cottage. Melvin made an early appointment at MANCAT'S (it is "thee" salon for the men in town, and a clotheir, too!) and is waiting for the others to arrive. After all, he wouldn't want to show up at Sweet Praline's house in nothing but the best for an up-in-coming mancat. Romeo, G. Jasper and Bhu arrive at MANCAT'S and see their good buddy, Goma. Of course, Goma is preparing to take quick photos on his cell, to email back to the newspaper for the evening edition. A party at Sweet Praline's is a social event! Goma takes his time to get the best pictures of all the mancats after their grooming appointments and in their new finery. He has already captured a great pic of Melvin, but just as he presses the button for the photo, Melvin, being a typical kid just has to clown around for the camera!

Just look at all of these handsome mancats in one location! Get the smelling salts, ladies!

Back in his office, G. Jasper is tired, but he still has to confirm the guest list with Praline and doublecheck with Goma on the news coverage. Sweet Praline would never forgive him if everything wasn't just purrfect! G. Jasper looks at the clock and thinks a short nap won't be a problem. He falls asleep as he looks at his two ladies, as they are his favorite screensaver.

Will G. Jasper get everything completed on time? Will he have sweet dreams of Praline AND Maggy? Will fur fly at the party?

Stay tuned for the exciting conclusion of AS THE PAW TURNS . . .

Return Engagement: As the Paw Turns: The Deception

2011-05-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

This was day 2 of As the Paw Turns. I really enjoyed this one because it showed Sweet Praline's tender, motherly side, which not many people saw.

Sweet Praline has one of the loveliest homes in the village of Fursville, as befitting her position in the community. She had just made a fresh pot of blackberry tea, and some nip-biscuits, when she has a text message from Bhu telling her he would be delayed for their visit. Apparently, the Sheriff had contacted him; a client was in jail, and needed immediate counsel.

Praline was not concerned. For you see, Melvin had stopped by unexpectedly. Praline has a special spot in her heart for dear little Melvin and likes to smother him with motherly advice and love. You see, Sweet Praline was not able to have little kitties of her own, which has always a sadness that she hides away where no one could see.

So the two lounged in the summer sunshine on Praline's front lawn, and she took the opportunity to give some "counsel" herself. Advising and teaching "little Mouchois" on all the peccadilloes of Fursville society, and how he must learn and grow to be a proper mancat.

Little did Praline know, while she and Melvin conversed on the front lawn, that behind the house, waiting for their "golden moment" were Goma, Romeo and Jasper. They would never tell, but the call to Bhu was little more than a ploy, a trick, by this "threesome". They wanted Bhu out of the way, so they could come courting Praline themselves! Oh, horrors!

Goma was bringing a bottle of expensive nip champagne, and wearing his best tie. Romeo had his box of chocolates, his hope renewed. Only he knew that inside the box were "caramel pralines," her favorite. Caramel pralines are the only thing Romeo knew were sweeter than Miss Praline. And Jasper brought a very special sunflower, grown in his own garden -- special with it's heart-shaped leaves; and of course, he brought Kong, something the two of them had enjoyed playing with together on past dates. The three were anticipating good things, good times.

Meanwhile, Maggy, having a bit of a hissy-fit over all the attention going toward Praline... decided to take up the town's "daring devil dog" on a country ride, and a lakeside picnic. It had been an invitation impossible to turn down... for she did have great affection for Khyra... and he even brought helmets, how considerate. She held tight to him as they rode off out of town...

The plot thickens . . .

Return Engagement - As the Paw Turns, Day 1

2011-05-25T00:01:00.004-04:00

The drama begins . . .

The day starts out bright and sunny in the town of Furville . . .

Bhu BigFurs, Esq. is spotted leaving his law offices for a secret meeting with Sweet Praline. He had a special bouquet of pink roses (pink is Sweet Praline's favorite color) and just knew it would be a purrfect night for a date with his sweetness ...

Mayor G. Jasper observed Bhu leaving with the roses and was considerably upset by this turn of events; he had no flowers, no wine, no nip... and no plans on courting Miss SPP today... After all, they just left each other a few hours ago . . .

Romeo had just approached, carrying his box of nip chocolates for Miss SPP, but sadly realized he would have to stop and nap for awhile because he was tired from his date with Miss Maggy Magster last night, and Bhu would get to her first! What a dilemma for Jasper and Romeo... how will they go on? How will they surpass Bhu's attentiveness..." After all, Miss Sweet Praline loves to be lavished with attention . . .

Stay tuned...

Memory Lane - Preview of "As the Paw Turns"

2011-05-24T00:01:00.001-04:00

This was the preview of the premier of "As the Paw Turns". I think the only kitty (besides Sweet Praline) who isn't blogging anymore is Melvin. His mom moved across the country and he's mainly on FB now. I hope I've whetted your appetite for the first day of the series tomorrow!

Join members of the Floof and Fur gang in the premiere soap opera, "As the Paw Turns."

"As the Paw Turns" is set in the village of Furville and is loaded with Himmies, who need lots of attention. Furville is run by Mayor Ginger Jasper, a handsome ginger Persian. As you can imagine, his job keeps him quite busy, especially with the beautiful (and sometimes vampy) ladycats, Sweet Praline and Maggy Magster.

Sweet Praline and Maggy Magster have their eyes on several of the handsome mancats in Furville - Bhu, Romeo, Goma, and Ginger Jasper, and sometimes they can get in a little bit of a spitfight over these handsome gentlemen. Sweet Praline has taken little Master Mouchois, aka Melvin, under her tutelage. Little does she know, Melvin works for Goma, the editor in chief of the Fursville Daily News.

The opening scene (beginning tomorrow) begins with Mayor Ginger Jasper, Dr. Romeo Montague, and Bhu all setting out to court Sweet Praline. Stay tuned . . .

Don't you just love my headshot?
My photo and costume are compliments of Zoey and the ZH, Ann at Zoolatry.

Memory Lane - Encore Presentation. . . As the Paw Turns

2011-05-23T00:01:00.002-04:00

Back in August of 2009, there was a special week long soap opera that starred Sweet Praline along with several other members of the CB. As part of Memory Lane, I thought I would bring back an Encore Presentation of "As the Paw Turns". Be sure to come back each day this week for the exciting return of Sweet Praline in her starring role with many of the handsome mancats of the CB. For those of you who missed this the first time around, I hope you enjoy it this time as much as we did the first time it was featured.

Coming to a computer screen near you this week - the newest soap opera to hit the CB. All of us floofies are great friends and I love them all. I've been teasing you to get you ready for our soap opera. Did I get your attention?

Here's a list of the cast of characters who all reside in the Village of Fursville:

BHU - Bhu BigFurs, Esquire (an attorney)
GINGER JASPER - Ginger Jasper, Mayor of the Village of Fursville
ROMEO - Dr. Romeo Montague, PhD., Renowned Doctor of Catpsychiatry and Village Counselor
GOMA - Editor In Chief, Reporter/Journalist, Photographer/Artist for the Fursville Daily News
SWEET PRALINE - Miss Sweet Praline Purrfect, the town's favored lady, a bit of a vamp, astute, charming, witty and enthralled by her many suitors (an attorney, a doctor, an editor and the mayor!!!!)
MAGGY - Miss Maggy Magster, also a bit of a vamp... in competition with Miss SPP for at least one of the gents!
MELVIN - Master Mouchois, a/k/a MELVIN... youth has it privileges (and so does his smaller size)... showing not only the curiousity of a cat, but the curiosity of youth... keeping an eye out on all the adults and their ongoing dramas... he has been known to "report" back to Goma (the Editor) on what he see's and hears . . .

Memory Lane - Easy Like Sunday (Earlier Years)

2011-05-22T00:10:00.000-04:00

I found some pictures of Praline when she was in her younger years, taking it easy. Many of these pictures are from when she was about 4-8 years of age. Have a restful, easy Sunday!

Memory Lane - Photo Hunt - Cluttered Collage

2011-05-21T00:38:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately for me, "cluttered" was an easy theme to put together for Photo Hunt today for Praline's memory lane collage. My home office and bedroom closet are a wreck, but Praline loved to hang around the clutter. If there was a sheet of paper on the floor, she was going to lie down on it. She loved to sneak into the closets and hide. I simply must clean out this clutter to get the place ready for the future!

Memory Lane - Eating Stinky Goodness

2011-05-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

When Praline was younger, she was mainly fed dry food. I would give her a "treat" of stinky goodness about once a month. When she became a senior kitty, the vet suggested giving her stinky goodness everyday so we could get her medicine and stay hydrated. The last couple of years when she got really sick once and had her surgery last year, I had to make sure she was eating her stinky goodness and she wouldn't eat it in the kitchen, so I moved her plate to the living room. She began eating in the living room as long as I was in there. The last couple of months, she only wanted to eat in my home office, as long as I was in there. She was my little diva, but anything she wanted, I did for her. I hope you enjoy this little video of her eating.

Memory Lane - Secret Admirer Video

2011-05-19T00:01:00.008-04:00

Praline has a secret admirer! One of the Persian breeders I've been talking to a lot lately sent me this video yesterday. She said that she has been visiting Praline's blog a lot lately and that her persian, Tiffany, just loves to watch Praline. I thought I would put this little short video to music (I'm playing the piano) to share Tiffany being "fascinated" with Praline.

Here are a few more videos that Terri sent me of Tiffany watching Praline.

Isn't this just the cutest thing?

Memory Lane - Getting Brushed and Purring video

2011-05-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

I've told you many times that Praline loved to be combed and brushed. Up until the last year when she was hurting, I could hold up the comb or brush and she would literally come running and start purring. That was our special bonding time. I had a comb beside my bed and beside my couch. First thing in the morning, Praline would jump on my bed and we'd have a grooming session before I ever got out of the bed. At night, after supper, she'd jump up beside me on the couch for a longer grooming session. The background noise you hear in this video is her actual purr! The funny thing was that the brushing would make her look so skinny and then all of a sudden, her fur would "poof" back out! Enjoy.

Memory Lane - Live Catnip Video

2011-05-17T00:22:00.001-04:00

Praline was introduced to catnip for the first time at about 7 years of age! I remember laughing so hard at how my little southern diva reacted. She was so into that catnip, that she was actually snorting! I always bought the processed stuff, but last summer she was sent some "live" catnip. I just put a twig of it in the basket and it was so funny watching her reach in to get it out. Once she succeeded, she acted like her little diva self and just looked at it as if to say, "what do you want me to do with it now?" I hope you enjoy this little video.

Memory Lane - Praline and Mom Paula collage

2011-05-16T00:56:00.001-04:00

Last week on mother's day, I just couldn't post any of these pictures. I'm healing and feeling a little better each day, so I thought it was time to post the pictures I could find of Praline actually being held by me. You will notice that in most of them, she was trying to get away. She wasn't a cat that liked to be held or sit in your lap, but she loved affection. She could lie down beside me and get her belly, chin, neck, and back petted and scritched all the time. I may have changed over the years, but Sweet Praline just got more beautiful!

Memory Lane - Easy Like Sunday Collage

2011-05-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

If anyone knew how to take it easy, it was Sweet Praline. I always knew she was the most relaxed when she was flat on her back with that floofy belly exposed. She also liked to take it easy anytime she could find sun puddles.

Thank you for being patient with me as I remember the many personalities of Sweet Praline as I deal with my grief. I'll only be posting until June 5, which would have been the 3rd Blogoversary. Thank you for your continued thoughts, comments, phone calls, emails, and prayers! As my doctor said, the CB is probably the best "support group" you could ever have at a time like this.

Memory Lane - Eating from Fingers Video

2011-05-14T01:55:00.001-04:00

Praline was always a finicky eater, but the last three years of her life, the vet wanted her to eat more "stinky goodness" so she could keep hydrated. Sometimes, Praline would eat every single drop from her plate and other times, I had to resort to sitting on the floor and letting her literally eat from my fingers. I really didn't mind - she was worth every moment I spent with her!

Memory Lane - Washing Face Video

2011-05-13T16:43:00.000-04:00

There was one ritual that Praline and I went through every day and that was the ritual of her letting me wash her little flat face beside her button nose. She would literally lick my fingers and then expect me to use my "wet" finger to wash her little nose. She even did this on her last day on the way to the vet to be helped to the Bridge.

I hate Blogger went down today and almost all of my comments from Thursday are gone! I had to repost this one today. I hope all of you have a great weekend.

Mom Paula

Memory Lane - Wendy's LOL Collage

2011-05-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

One of the privileges of having an expressive face like Praline's was the fact that she would be featured on Wendy's LOL many times. On the day after Sweet Praline went to the Bridge, Wendy featured Praline's LOLs. I put most of them together in this collage, but you simply must go to her blog site to read the words clearly. She is so creative.

Memory Lane - Wordless Wednesday Collage

2011-05-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

Memory Lane - Back of Disrespect Collage

2011-05-10T00:01:00.003-04:00

Praline was always the stereotypical tortie Diva and would show me the "back of disrespect" when she didn't like something I'd done, which was quite often. I hope you enjoy this little collage.

I've decided that I am going to keep the Memory Lane posts going until June 5, 2011, which would have been Praline's 3rd Blogoversary. I'm trying to put together a special post for that day and then the "active" posting will end. Thank you for your continued support (I still cry every night and morning).

Memory Lane - Playing with Catnip Mouse

2011-05-09T00:01:00.002-04:00

This video is a little bit longer than the others that I've shared, but it shows how much Praline would still play like a kitten, even as a senior kitty (before she got sick in January). I don't have many more videos left to share and I hope you are enjoying them as much as I am. Today has been two weeks since Praline went to the Bridge and I think I am missing her as much today as the day she left.

There is a possibility there may be a new kitty blog coming soon. There are two rescue kittens that someone is trying to get me to take and I also have an appointment with a Persian breeder who is expecting a new litter in June. So many decisions to make and so many emotions to go through.

Remembering Sweet Praline

2011-05-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

Memory Lane - Getting Brushed

2011-05-07T00:01:00.001-04:00

One of the things about owning a Persian/Himmie is that they must be groomed every day. Praline loved being brushed and combed. It was always our bonding time in the morning and evening. I would hold up the brush and she would come running, start purring, and enjoy being brushed. Here is a short little video showing her getting brushed.

Memory Lane - Belly Rub

2011-05-06T00:01:00.002-04:00

I think I've told you before how much Praline loved having her belly rubbed. In fact, I shared a video earlier showing her just pawing in the air during her belly rub. I like this video because it shows how she would stretch out her leg to make sure I rubbed her belly and under her arms and everything. I hope you've enjoyed sharing video memories with me this week. Thanks again for the kind words and the encouragement. It's been tough.

Memory Lane - Getting Treats in the Office

2011-05-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Years ago, when I moved back into my house and was still a college professor, I started taking treats back to my office to encourage Praline to come back to the office with me while I worked. It became a habit for her. As soon as I would walk in the door at night, she would head to the office and insist on getting her treats before I could do anything else. Here is another cute little video of her using some "paw action" to get her treats. Boy, do I miss that cute little face!

Memory Lane - Playing with Mouse Video

2011-05-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

This is another video that just makes me smile. Praline loved toys with feathers, but the funniest part of this video is when she whaps it away, she starts taking a bath, acting like she was the Diva she was. She actually waited for me to reach over and get the mouse for her after I finished with the video. Enjoy another "memory lane" video.

Memory Lane - Nip Cigar Video

2011-05-03T00:01:00.001-04:00

Last night was one week since I helped my Sweet Praline cross the bridge. I've had good days and bad days, but actually thought I was starting to heal. However, out of the blue last night, I just starting sobbing, so I went to my videos of Praline and ran across this one that made me laugh. I don't think I ever shared it with you, but she just loved a fresh, nip cigar! Just watch her attack it!

I am working on a special project to share with all of you, but I just can't do it yet. My former mother-in-law passed away this weekend and the family asked me to sing at her funeral, even though I've been divorced for 16 years. I was practicing with the pianist Monday and I was doing fine singing the songs for her funeral (today). Then I pulled out the song I want to record for a special video project I'm working on to share with the CB and in the second line of the song, I lost it. The pianist just looked at me and said, "You're not ready for this one yet." The song is "Smile" from Charlie Chaplin. I'm trying to put together a slide show of all of Praline's funny faces and outtakes and wanted to record "Smile" in the background, but I'm just not ready yet. My emotions are still too raw! However, this video made me laugh out loud, so I hope you enjoy it.

Memory Lane - Eating Treats Jar

2011-05-02T08:16:00.001-04:00

Mom Paula: I just couldn't miss another day without sharing something else about Sweet Praline. I hope you don't mind. Many of you commented last week about liking the picture of her with her head in her treat jar. Here's a short little video of her making a meal out of her treats.

I hope you don't mind me still sharing memories. They help me in the healing process and some of these videos just bring a smile to my face.

Goodbye My Sweet Praline

2011-05-01T01:28:00.001-04:00

As we remember all of the kitty furriends that have gone before us, I just want to take this one last moment to say good-bye to my Sweet Angel, Praline. Every night I come home and see your special box, tears come to my eyes, but I know that you are home where you belong. You were loved more than you could ever know. Any future kittens in the house will know all about you! I love you, my sweet baby and I miss you terribly each and every day!!

Online Photo Editor

Angel Praline: Don't forget to visit the Floof and Fur Gang as we remember all of our furry furriends that have gone before us. My sister-before-me, Muff, will also be featured.

Online Photo Editor

Remembrance Weekend

2011-04-30T00:01:00.001-04:00

Three Tabby Cats in Vienna ~ Kashim, Othello and Salome ~ are hosting a Weekend of Remembrance. Some years ago the entire Cat Blogosphere came together and remembered our many friends, loved and lost and it is time for this once again…!

Above is a candle to place on your sidebar, or post to your blog in any way you choose.
You can pick up the candle, light the candle and also grab the HTML code from the Three Tabby Cats blog… please do stop by.

We invite, and enourage you to take part in this. Yes, there are many things happening today and thru the weekend, but we can each take a moment from all the other events to remember…!

Here is the link to Kashim, Othello and Salome – where you can join in and comment…

I would like to remember my Sweet Praline who crossed the bridge on April 25, 2011

and her sister before her, Muff, who crossed the bridge in May 1996

Mom Paula: Sweet Praline's ashes are home with me and there is an inner peace that I feel. It's still tough, but it's going to be okay.

Memory Lane - Baby Praline

2011-04-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Mom Paula: No walk down memory lane would be complete without pictures of Baby Praline (or Pralinette as Khyra would say). I am so glad that I had a good camera 15 years ago and took pictures of Praline that have lasted that I could digitize. Unfortunately, I don't have any videos of her as a kitten, but these pictures tell a lot of stories. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

I am supposed to pick up Praline's ashes today. I know this afternoon is going to be tough, so all of your purrs and prayers are appreciated.

Memory Lane - Treats on Thursday

2011-04-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

Mom Paula: Everyone knows how much Praline loved her treats! She would eat a whole bag if I let her. She would climb up my leg, put her whole face in the treat jar, climb on top of my mom and dad, and tear open a bag herself to get to treats. I thought I would share a collage of some of my favorite "treats" pictures for today's memory lane.

And now a video of Praline eating her treats. I like this one because you can see how quickly she would run from the hallway to the couch to get her treats and you can hear her little squeaky meow.

Memory Lane - Tummy Tuesday

2011-04-27T00:01:00.002-04:00

Oops! It's Wednesday, isn't it? Oh well, any day was a Tummy Day for Praline.

Mom Paula: Here are some of my favorite photos of Praline exposing her floofy belly. She did it all the time. I would look over at her and she was exposing her belly and would just look up at me as if to say, "well, what are you looking at? Come over here and give me a belly rub." She loved for me to rub her belly. I hope you enjoy walking down memory lane with me.

And here is my most favorite video of her enjoying her belly rub.

Thank You

2011-04-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

Mom Paula: It really feels odd to not be posting for Sweet Praline, but I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for your outpouring of support over the past few weeks and days. I do plan on sharing a few more posts (special memories and themes) with everyone during the next couple of weeks, but I will not shut down Praline's blog. Even when new furchildren come to live with me, there will always be a permanent link to Sweet Praline's blog. I also plan on visiting everyone over the next few days/weeks to thank you. I'm at peace with Praline and my decision, but it just hurts so much not having her here with me. Thank you for all that you've done!

Remembering Praline - video

2011-04-25T13:16:00.000-04:00

Mom Paula: Praline went to the vet this morning at about 8:50 am. As the vet went to put the first needle in her to "put her to sleep", Praline climbed up on my shoulder and when the vet took out the needle, Praline turned around and hissed at her. She was a little diva until the end. She fell asleep on my shoulder with me talking to her and telling her it was okay. We then laid her on the table for the last shot and she crossed the Bridge so peacefully. I am heartbroken, but I know I did what is best for my little Sweet Praline.

Last night, when I was awaiting for this morning to come, I just had to do something constructive, so I put together a little slide show. The background vocals are actually me singing. There are some rough places in the video with the audio, but I can't figure out out to get the hissing out (maybe it's Praline still being a Diva). I wanted to share this with all of you. I will keep this blog open and will share some theme days of Sweet Praline over the next few days. Thank you so much for your support - you are amazing!

Praline will be coming home to me on Friday. She is being cremated and the urn I found had a Himmie on top of it. The lady gave me a $50 discount on the urn/box because I fell in love with it so much and told her I couldn't afford the shelf price.

I truly love all of you and couldn't function right now if it weren't for your support.

Sunny Days are Coming

2011-04-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

Easy Like Sunday

2011-04-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

This will probably be my last Easy Sunday with everyone. Mom and I had a long talk this weekend and she told me that she will be fine and it's okay for me to stop fighting if I'm ready to go to the Bridge. I haven't eaten anything since Thursday, not even a treat and I'm getting weaker every day. I love all of you!

By the way, Happy Easter!

I'm Tired

2011-04-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm very tired today!

Mom Paula: Praline didn't have a good day on Friday. She's not even eating her treats now. I'm just giving her all the loving I can right now. Thank you so much for your kind words and support.

Femme Friday

2011-04-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

Another rough week. I haven't been eating much at all the past few days and I've lost more weight. Mom took me to the vet yesterday and the news isn't good. I'll let mom tell you more below. But for now, here's another Femme Friday picture from me!

Update from Mom Paula: I've tried to keep everything positive on Praline's blog since her original diagnosis, but I also want to keep everyone up-to-date on her condition. Unfortunately, it's hard to be positive and upbeat when the news isn't good.

Praline hasn't done well at all the past few days. She stopped eating again and would barely touch the stinky goodness from my fingers. I really knew there were problems when she stopped begging for treats and would actually spit them out and leave them. I made the decision to call the vet this morning to get some advice and Dr. Ellis recommended I bring her in. Praline has lost more weight (you can feel her bones when you rub her back) and the vet actually looked at me and asked me if I wanted to put her down today. I immediately began crying and told her that is what I needed to know - was it was the end of the line for Praline and was I just trying to hold on to her.

Praline was leaning up against me and she looked back at the vet with those beautiful eyes and the vet said, "I don't think she's ready to go yet." The vet said the fact that Praline was still walking around on the floor trying to get away from the vet, that she was leaning against me instead of just lying on the table and that she still had the spirit in her eyes told the vet that she wasn't ready. However, the vet was very concerned that Praline hasn't been eating. I asked the vet if I needed to make the decision to send her to the bridge or could I just let it happen naturally at home. The vet told me that I needed to make the decision because it would be a hard death on Praline if I let it happen naturally. She decided to give Praline fluids and a pill that should help with the nausea and stimulate her appetite over the weekend. If it works, she can have the pill once every three days.

The vet then told me that if this didn't work, that it would be time to put Praline down next week. She said that even though Praline was still fighting, if she didn't start eating, we couldn't let her starve. The vet also indicated that Praline probably was "hurting" because of the rawness of her digestive system. Praline did walk up to me a couple of times last night, meowing, asking for some treats and she actually ate some. She hasn't eaten her food yet, but we'll see. Thank you so much for all of your support during this time. I'll keep everyone updated.

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

My mom got to meet Chey's (and Gemini and Ichiro) mom,Bonnie and "The Male" this week and mom said they were great! What was even better was that my mom got to meet Flat Chey.

The best thing was that Chey shared some of her Fishy Flakes with me as a present in hopes that I would begin eating more. I know how hard that was for Chey and for that, I am truly thankful.

Mom Bonnie also gave my mom a beautiful pair of kitty earrings. Mom was proudly wearing them to work yesterday! A special thank you for Bonnie and Dennis for showing my mom such a good time Monday night. She really needed it!

Mom Paula: I wish I could meet all of the CB bloggers out there. Everyone I've met has been so wonderful and you are such a great support group. Sadly, I must report that Praline is doing a little worse this week. She is still sick every morning and she is eating less and less. She's not even begging as much for her treats and has resorted to spitting them out once she takes a bite. She will eat a little of her stinky goodness off of my fingers, but not much. Please keep those purrs coming.

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2011-04-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

If you listen very carefully, you'll hear me purring!

Tortie Tuesday

2011-04-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

Just thought I would share a picture of me showing a little of my tortitude!

Monday Movie

2011-04-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share a little recent video with you to show you that I still have my fighting spirit! The video is a little dark, but mom was determined to post this. I was sick "just a little bit" this weekend and I ate a little bit, but I am holding my own.

My mom is out of town today, but she promised to share pictures of her visit with Bonnie!

Easy Like Sunday

2011-04-17T07:18:00.001-04:00

Sorry we're late posting. Mom fell asleep on the couch before getting anything done last night. I guess I've worn her out this week. I did okay on Friday and Saturday. I didn't eat very much (not even my treats), but I didn't get sick either. Until this morning, that is! I left a small area at the opening of mom's bedroom. I've already eaten a little bit of breakfast and now I must hide before she begins to poke those pills down my throat.

I hope the rest of you have a restful, easy Sunday!

Pee ess - my mom is going to be in Anderson and Clemson tomorrow and she gets to meet Chey, Gemini, and Ichiro's mom! I'm jealous!

Watching TV

2011-04-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

Mom and I like to sit back and watch Cats 101 on Saturdays. One of my favorite places to watch TV with mom is on the foot rest of mom's recliner, which means mom can't put her short little legs (my mom is only 4 ft 11 1/2 in tall) on the recliner, but she'll do anything for me.

Mom Paula: Thank you so much for the purrs and comforting words. They must have worked. Yesterday was the first day that Praline didn't get sick. She ate most of her breakfast and she met me at the door when I came home. She even stayed in the room with me all evening instead of staying under the bed. Yesterday was a better day. It's been a really rough week!

Femme Friday

2011-04-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

Last night, I kicked my mom off of the couch and made her sit on the floor while I rested (for a few minutes) in mom's spot. Of course, mom let me sit there for as long as I wanted, which wasn't too long because I prefer spending my evenings under the bed lately.

Mom Paula: Praline isn't eating well this week and she spends more time under the bed. She's still been sick every day. She will still eat her treats, but not as many. Continued purrs appreciated.

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm thankful another week has passed and I'm still here! Mom is spending most of her evenings sitting with me to encourage me to eat, so we're not visiting much. The vet put me on an antihistamine yesterday along with my Pepcid AC to help with my sickness. She isn't going to put me on any anti-nausea medication because it can't be used long term. Thanks for all of your purrs! I'm thankful for all of you!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

Tortie Tuesday

2011-04-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

Today is Tortie Tuesday and I thought I would just share a picture of me in all of my tortie glory still surrounded by my shabby chic carpet.

Shabby Chic Day

2011-04-11T00:01:00.001-04:00

Now, this is my kind of day! Milo and Alfie came up with the idea to share our unique ways of decorating the house that we live in. My mom is always trying to "photoshop" pictures because of all of the stains where I've been sick, but I think this adds a unique chicness to my house. It shows that I live here for better or for worse! So here in all of it's glory is my area of the office with dry food, bomit stains, and a general mess. Of course, there is also me, who is the chicest diva around!

Mom Paula: I can't believe I'm letting Praline show this picture with all of the stains. I've tried every product out there and nothing will take out the stains she leaves. Oh well, anything for my Sweet Praline.

Easy Like Sunday

2011-04-10T00:01:00.002-04:00

One of my newer places to take it easy is on the couch. Mom will start hunting for me and here I am on the couch waiting for her to come sit beside me. Of course, that only lasts a few minutes, but mom enjoys it.

Update from Mom Paula: Praline is eating okay. The only problem is that the Pepcid AC doesn't appear to be helping yet. My poor little girl is sick every morning. Thank you for the continued purrs and prayers.

Success!

2011-04-09T00:01:00.000-04:00

I won! Mom ended up putting the crunchies in her hand and once again, I'm the pampered southern diva that I'm meant to be!

Femme Friday

2011-04-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

And you expect me to climb up on the couch to get my crunchies! What happened to hand feeding?

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

I am so thankful for all of my furriends and their beans on the CB. The outpouring of support and comforting words for my mom and me since my diagnosis two weeks ago is overwhelming. All of you are just so special and it means so much to my mom and me! We love you!

Update from Mom Paula: I echo Praline's thoughts. Thank you for all of the comforting comments, emails, and phone calls. Praline is eating better since receiving her shot two weeks ago. She is drinking her water and using the litter box appropriately. However, she's been throwing up every day for over two weeks. The vet started her on Pepcid AC (1/4 tablet each day) yesterday. Praline is holding her own right now and is still my beautiful little diva!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

No Privacy

2011-04-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Enough is enough! I let mom take pictures of me for yesterday's post, but now she is following me up under the keyboard where I like to hide. Can't a ladycat get any privacy around here?

Chicken Soup for the Soul Winner

2011-04-04T00:01:00.001-04:00

I'm trying to be a little more patient with mom and the flashy box so she can get some "glamour" photos of me! As much as I dislike the flashy box, I am trying to work with my mom to help her feel better. What do you think? Am I a Glamour Puss?

We used the random list generator to select the winner of the Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul cat food contest. This application is pretty cool. We typed in everyone's name that wanted to be entered in the contest and pressed the button and it randomized the names. Since my mom is a former mathematics teacher and math education professor, she thinks this is pretty cool. And now, without further delay, the winner is . . .

Chez Cats! Please email me your contact information (address) and we'll give the information to the company to send you your prize. Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated!

Easy Like Sunday

2011-04-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

It's been a really long week, so I think I am going to take it easy today. So sorry my floof doesn't look so great, but I'm still here and still fighting!

Photo Hunt: Closed

2011-04-02T00:01:00.001-04:00

Today's Photo Hunt theme is "closed". I don't know about you kitties, but I can't stand for a door to be closed in my house. If anyone ever visits and closes the hall door to the human litter box, I start scratching on the door. My mom leaves all of the doors open in my house (except for the closet).

She has also started closing my PTU door once she gets me out of it at the vet. As much as I don't like the PTU, I also don't like being out in the vet's office, and I immediately try to get back in. Mom has learned that if I get back in, I'll fight like a tiger to not come back out again. Here I am at my recent vet visit trying to get back into the "closed" door in the PTU. I almost got it open until mom realized that she hadn't turned the lock.

You'll notice in the picture below, that mom locked the box and the door was officially closed! I wasn't too happy with my mom!

Femme Friday

2011-04-01T00:01:00.001-04:00

Don't you just love my new header!?! Ann of Zoolatry did it for me and I think it is great! If you look really close, you can find Baby Praline!

I may not be as floofy as I used to be, but I still care about how I look and I think the colors of my vet's office clash with my beautiful floof. I don't think I want to go back there anytime soon!

Thank you for your outpouring of comments, emails and phone calls! We are so thankful for the CB! Please keep those purrs coming!

Eating Tasty Food

2011-03-31T00:01:00.000-04:00

Even though I only gained 1 ounce when I went to the vet last week, I'm eating pretty well. Mom is trying to feed me my stinky goodness twice a day to make sure I'm getting my medicine. I have to have both the Cosequin and now some Metamucil each day. I've graduated to eating some in the living room and the office. I still make a mess on my carpet, which makes me an excellent participant in the Shabby Chic Day sponsored by Milo and Alfie on April 11.

At night, our routine (after eating the stinky goodness) is for me to jump on the couch beside mom and eat my crunchies. The vet said she didn't care what crunchy food I ate as long as I was eating, so I'm really enjoying the Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul dry food. Of course, I want mom to let me eat out of her hand . . .

Don't forget to entry the contest to win 3 sample bags of the crunchy food, a $30 gift card to thedoggystore.com, and a copy of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul book. Just leave a comment on Tuesday's post stating that you would like to be included in the contest.

Now to finish up my delicious crunchies . . . (If you look really close, you can see my cute pink tongue)

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2011-03-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to leave a comment on the contest post here if you would like to be in the drawing. Remember, you must live in the United States.

Mom Paula: I've been trying to avoid pictures that show Praline's weight loss, but it's almost impossible now. She's eating pretty good lately, but there are definitely some changes. She loves to sit on my footrest when I'm watching the recorded soap opera at night. Just look at that beautiful face!

Chicken Soup Contest

2011-03-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Recently, I received an offer to try Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul food. Since I was being so finicky, my mom told the nice lady that we would love to try it. She sent me some sample bags of the food and mom immediately put it in front of me.

To encourage me to eat, mom put the food in her hand (like treats) and I took a big sniff,

And began eating the food out of mom's hand. I love it! This has become a nightly ritual for us and mom let's me eat as much as I want.

Nom! Nom! This is some good stuff and it's good for you. You can read about the ingredients here. There are five different dry food formulas for cats: adult, kitten, overweight, pregnant or nursing, or senior. They even have stinky goodness in cans! I'm sure all of you would love it too.

Now for the good part, the company is letting us sponsor a contest for one lucky kitty (or more if you are in the same household). Unfortunately, this is only for my furriends in the United States. If you would like a chance to win 3 sample bags of food, a $30 gift card to TheDoggyStore.com, and a copy of the Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul book - please leave a comment stating that you would like to be considered for the contest. The contest will run until Friday, April 1, 2011 and we'll make the announcement on Monday, April 4. We'll use a random number generator to determine the winner.

Good luck!!! I think I'll go back to eating some more!

Chicken Soup?

2011-03-28T00:01:00.002-04:00

What do you mean this isn't the kind of chicken soup that we are having a contest for? This red chicken looks pretty delicious to me!!!

We are having a contest for Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul cat food. The winner will receive three sample bags of the adult dry formula; a $30 giftcard to thedoggystore.com and a copy of the Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul book. Stay tuned for a review of the food tomorrow . . .

Easy Like Sunday

2011-03-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

I think I'll take it easy today. Thank you so much for all of your comforting words, purrs, and prayers.

I'm resting up for a contest that I am going to sponsor next week for Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul cat food. The winner will receive three sample bags of the adult dry formula; a $30 giftcard to thedoggystore.com and a copy of the Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul book. Stay tuned . . .

Photo Hunt - Cage(d)

2011-03-26T00:01:00.003-04:00

Today's photo hunt theme is cage(d). This is purrfect for me because I was forced into my cage (PTU) yesterday to go to the vet. As many of you read yesterday, the news wasn't good. Mom and I have decided that we are going to make whatever time I have left positive and enjoy ourselves on the CB. Mom will give updates from time to time, but I want to enjoy myself. Mom just loves this picture of my beautiful face.

Thank you for all of the purrs and prayers!

I'm Out of Here!

2011-03-25T00:01:00.004-04:00

Update from Mom Paula: The news at the vet wasn't good! Praline's spleen is enlarged and there appears to be a mass in her stomach. The vet suspects a mast cell tumor. She also has some bone spurs along her spine. The vet gave her an anti-inflammatory shot that should help with the inflammation in the stomach and help her feel better. She does not recommend surgery to even do a biopsy because it is so dangerous and just the recuperation from abdominal surgery it bad for a cat her age. It's possible we're only talking a few months. As you can imagine, I am sitting here with tears streaming down my face, but I am going to make her last days as comfortable as possible and enjoy every minute with her. Please continue those purrs.

I saw mom pull out the red PTU last night, so I'm hopping on my boogie mat and getting out of here. Furriends, watch out, I may be on my way to visit you!

Thanks to Mom Judi from Sammy, Andy, and Shelly for my graphic!

Mom Paula: Praline has her annual checkup at the vet this morning at 9:30 am. I'll give you an update on her visit when we get back.

Pee ess - I'm in the Thoughts for Paws Spring photo contest. Please go over for a visit and give me as many votes as you can!

Not My Size

2011-03-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

Unfortunately, the box in yesterday's picture didn't have any presents in it for me. Mom had the box out getting ready to mail something and I decided to try it out for size. I was half way in the box and already backing out when mom got the flashy box! MOL - I showed her!

And to all of my furriends who were hoping I was mailing myself to them - Mom says I'm staying right where I am - with her!!!

We'll see about that . . .

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

Tortie Tuesday

2011-03-22T00:01:00.003-04:00

Mom is experimenting with natural light again. I think this picture is an excellent example of my tortie floof, even if it isn't as full as it usually is. Have a wonderful day!

Uneasy Monday

2011-03-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

What do you mean the PTU is coming out this week?

Mom Paula: Praline is scheduled for her annual checkup with the vet this Friday. She appears to be eating better and is a little more social. However, her fur is still very greasy and when I brush her now, she has a lot of dandruff. All of her bloodwork last month showed there were no problems with the organs, including the thyroid. I'm going to get the vet to look at her skin very carefully.

Easy Like Sunday

2011-03-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

Taking it easy today in my sunpuddles! Have a great day!

Photo Hunt - License Plate

2011-03-19T00:01:00.004-04:00

Today's Photo Hunt theme is "license plate". At first, I thought this was going to be impossible to incorporate into my blog, because the only license plate that I know of is attached to that metal machine that takes me to the vet and I didn't want to get anywhere near it, if you know what I mean. Then, I remembered that my mom has a bunch of extra license plates that depict our South Carolina Gamecocks, so I agreed to pose beside one of them.

Luckily for me, mom just finished brushing my floof (what little bit I would let her) so I look presentable. I think I look quite nice next to the rooster!

Femme Friday

2011-03-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

I know there must be some green papers in here somewhere for my Temptations!

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

Free Photo Editor

Wordy Wednesday Challenge 2011

2011-03-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

I am participating in the Wordy Wednesday Challenge and my word is definitely "DIVA". I expect everyone around me to bow down to my every wish! Thank you Ann, of Zoolatry, for my wonderful graphic!

Tortie Tuesday

2011-03-15T00:01:00.001-04:00

I'm trying to enhance my beautiful tortieness by hiding behind a peacock feather! It reminds me of the old antebellum southern belles hiding their faces behind those big fans to tease the gentlemen!

In response to my "cowlick" yesterday! My floof is staying very greasy lately, even though mom brushes me everyday. The vet doesn't want her giving me a bath because of my age. I am eating a little better, but mom is still very concerned about me.

Mom Paula: my beautiful little ladycat is definitely showing her age. She is as feisty as ever (even more so) and isn't as patient when I try to brush and comb her lately. Everyone that sees her now comments that she looks like she has lost weight. The petsitter even commented that she thought that Praline had been shaved. I tried to get her to play with the peacock feather and she just looked at it with that tortitude!

Cowlick Floof

2011-03-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

Can you believe my mom dared post a photo of me with a cowlick in my floof? You can tell I am not happy. Just look at that glare!

Easy Like Sunday

2011-03-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

We've had some beautiful weather the past couple of days and I am just going to take it easy today in the sun puddles watching bird TV.

Photo Hunt - Machine(s)

2011-03-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

Today's photo hunt theme is "machine(s)". I don't know about this machine thing, but I do know that my mom has a big Kirby Monster in my house. Just look at that big, red mouth and how much larger it is than me. Mom says we have to have this machine around because of all of my floof. I told her that she needs to save my floof and give it back because I've lost so much of it lately.

It's me or the machine!!!

The picture from above was two years ago. See how much floofier I was. The picture below with the Kirby Monster was taken last night. I'm still floofy, but you can definitely tell I've lost some weight and floof!

Have a great Saturday my furriends!

Femme Friday

2011-03-11T00:01:00.005-05:00

It's finally Friday! Mom has been working too much again, so I haven't had much time with her, but at least she's been home. She tried weighing me again last night (she stepped on the scale first and then picked up me) and it looks like I've gained back at least 1/2 pound. Mom doesn't know how accurate it is because her scale doesn't weigh to the nearest ounce, but at least it was higher than a few weeks ago.

I've been on the Cosequin for about 3 weeks and appear to be moving a little better. Mom is still working on getting all of my mats out. My floof is still a little greasy and we are trying to figure out how to help me keep my floof clean. Any suggestions?

It looks like all of your purrs are helping out! Please purr for my mom. She has a couple of doctor appointments next week that she is worried about. I'll share more with you after she sees the doctor. We hope it's nothing.

Thankful Thursday

2011-03-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Even though I'm sticking out my cute little pink tongue at mom, I'm thankful that she is home. I've surprised her the past few days by sitting beside her on the couch for a few minutes. Mom is very pleased at this because the last couple of months I've stayed back in the home office being a little anti-social.

Mom Paula: Praline continues to surprise me. She's as finicky as ever with her food, but she does appear to be eating a little more. I actually heard her playing in the hall last night and she hasn't done that in months! Please keep those purrs coming!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-09T00:01:00.001-05:00

Tummy Tuesday

2011-03-08T07:21:00.000-05:00

My face is all clean, so now it's time to work on my floofy tummy.

This is going to take a little longer than I thought. I have to work around some of my mats, but mom is still patiently getting them out.

You'll have to excuse me, this is going to take a little while!

Beauty Bath

2011-03-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

I decided to take some time while I was soaking in some of the beautiful sunshine this weekend to take a beauty bath. Mom has been working on my floof all weekend and is slowly getting it back in shape. First, I must get my paws wet . . .

And now to wash my beautiful, floofy face! A ladycat diva's work is never done!

Mom Paula: Praline was eating okay this weekend. I tried to get her current weight, but my scale only weighs to the nearest 0.5 pounds. I bought a scale that weighed to the nearest 0.10 pound, but it's too small for Praline to sit on. According to my scale (weighing me, too), Praline hasn't gained any weight. Unfortunately, I think I've found it!!!

Easy Like Sunday

2011-03-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

I just love the windows in my house that go all the way to the floor. This way, when those lovely sunpuddles come through, I can soak them all up. There are also some interesting creatures outside.

Mom has spent that past two days trying to de-mat me! I went for about 5 days without getting brushed and I have some tight little knots on my tummy and back legs. Mom is working very slowly trying to work them out so she doesn't hurt me. She did get my front toenails clipped yesterday. She's going for the back today. I'm not as patient as I used to be.

Mom Paula: Praline is eating a little better. I'm still watching her very carefully because she has slowed down over the last few months. We haven't visited as much lately because I've been so concerned about her and spend most of my evenings watching over her. Thank you for all of your care, purrs, and love!