Sunday, July 29, 2012

The Blogville Olympics: Crazy Sleeping Singles

Here is the photo that I submitted for the Crazy Sleeping Singles event over at Oskar's blog:

Mom was AMAZED when after taking this photo she looked closely and saw that my sleeping pose had formed itself into the shape of a:

HEART!!!!!

Pretty amazing isn't it?
Hurry over and check out
all of the "Crazy Sleeping Singles"
by clicking here

HAPPY SUNDAY ALL!

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Dear Cody, also known as the "cat formerly known as....."




A huge thank you to Spitty of Spitty Speaks for originally featuring this bed on his blog, When I saw it I HAD to have it since Cody's first "given" name had been "Prince"! Another HUGE thank you to "Meowmans" from Animal Shelter Volunteer Life for also helping me find one for Cody! I found mine on  a website called Terry's Village


Today is a special day. It is hard for me to believe that 5 years ago today you came into my life.

Has it really been FIVE YEARS?

I want to thank you my precious Cody for helping to heal a heart that was broken. The day I found you at the PetCo adoption drive, my heart was hurting from having  to say goodbye to your Grandpa Bobo just two weeks earlier.

I thought maybe it was too soon for another cat.  That is, until I picked you up and you immediately curled yourself up against me, never making any attempt to move, I felt your heart taking over mine, I knew you were sent from the Heavens.

I can see why your first name was Prince, your Dad frequently reminds me of how I should never have changed it. You truly ARE our "Prince."

You entered your Dad's and my home when you were about 11 wks old.  You had such kitty swagger! You never hid, you strolled through our home with an air of ownership. You had the cutest little pot belly and a sturdy, solid frame. Such a  rough-and-tumble boy kitty you were! As a handsome mancat, you still are.

Your Dad and I would laugh when you would turn and look at us with the most inquisitive, intense stare, your eyes literally appeared to look through us, you never averted your gaze. We could tell you possessed the wisdom of the ages with that look, it is a look you frequently give us to this day.

You are patient, yet determined, tolerant, but no pushover, fearless and loving.

Thank you for the love, laughs and light that you bring to my world, your Dad's and of course your best friend's, Dakota.

As I used to say to Grandpa Bobo, "you MUST stay with Mama til you are at least 24!"

Thank you  for being the incredible kitty that you are, my special boy, I adore you.

Love, "Mom"



Friday, July 27, 2012

The Blogville Pet Blogging Games Opening Extravaganza and the Parade Of Athletes!!

Today is the start of the:
Blogville, Pet Blogging Games!
here is the:

Here are the events for today:
FRIDAY, JULY 27
Opening Extravaganza ~ http://www.roosdoins.com/
Parade of Athletes ~ http://posiedorg.blogspot.com/


BREAKING NEWS ALERT

 I am entered in the

Crazy Sleeping Singles Event

Hosted by the Daily Oskar!

That event will be held 

on Sunday, July 29th!!

I plan on making my country proud!



Thursday, July 26, 2012

Thankful Thursday-I Won!!!

I didn't win the Mega-Million lottery so you don't have to start kissing up to me, but what I won sure runs a close second!!

See this photo?

It is one of Mom's faves!
She caught me cat-napping
with my FAVORITE red mousie
and entered it in my buddy Sammy's
(click on the blog title to visit him!)
photo contest in the category of
"Me and My Favorite Toy"
and I WON FIRST PLACE!!

Well, I already KNOW that I am "Awesome"
But it sure feels great that so many
people think so too
(even if I DID resort to BRIBERY!! MOL!)

I received a WHOPPING
36 VOTES!!!


Thank you to all who voted for me!
and thanks to Sammyfor hosting such a great contest!

Love, Cody



Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Winners of the Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit by Artcasso

Yay!! We have the winners of our give-away  as chosen by www.random.org

THEY ARE:

SAMANTHA REMINGTON


MARG
of Marg's Pets
Click here to visit her blog


MEOWMEOWMANS
of the blog
Animal Shelter Volunteer Life
Click here to visit their blog

THE TEACHER'S PETS
of the blog of the same name!
Click here to visit their blog

BRIAN
of the blog 
Brian's Home
Click here to visit his blog


Concatulations to the winners!
We think we have everyone's
home address except for
Samantha Remington
and The Teacher's Pets

please email my Mom 
at cgittleman at mi dot rr dot com
with your full name and address

Have fun painting!!!!
Love, Cody

Thanks so much to all who entered!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

A vote for CODY is a vote for MOUSIES!!!!

PLEASE VOTE FOR CODY!!!



Cody is an entrant 
in the "Me and My Favorite Toy" category
over at Sammy's blog "One Spoiled Cat"


Cody loves his mousie so much
that he uses it as a pillow
when not batting him into oblivion!

Cody loves this mouse sooo much
that he is even smiling
while he dreams about him!
Please click here
to go to Sammy's blog and vote!

pleading Petties peeps, this means YOU!
a vote for Cody could mean
a vote for YOU!

After all, we don't ask for much,
and this voting isn't going on
for eternity MOL!!!

THANK YOU!


Monday, July 23, 2012

A Cat Adoption Story, Pay it forward, but protect your heart

One of the goals I had aspired to in the past year was, instead of just blogging about pet adoption events,  I had decided that it was important for me to be an active participant. I didn't want to just "Blog the Change" I wanted to help "Be the Change."

As many of you know, June was "Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat-Month" and I had decided to attend a local adoption event that previously I had only blogged about, but  had never experienced.

It was a gloriously sunny day, and as I motored along picturesque tree and lake-lined roads, I thought about the many kitties I was yet to meet.

The first cats I met were residents of Kitty City II. They romped and played freely in their cage-free, toy and comfy chair-filled environment.

Arm-chair kitty

Interior of Kitty City II-White Lake Michigan
comfy kitty at Kitty City II
7-toed kitty at Kitty City II

Then I strolled over to the large vacant storefront that was located next door, where cats from the Oakland Pet Adoption Center and Elizabeth Lake Animal Rescue were housed.

My heart fell to my toes. There were cages upon cages of cats. Every color, every age, every size, every breed.  Each with a story. Each filled with hope. Each wanting to give love.


I made my way around the room, cooing, ooo-ing, ahhhh-ing, petting pink noses, touching velvety soft paws. Then I stopped. For some unknown reason I turned my head and saw HIM. Our eyes locked. His handsomeness could not be denied. SOMETHING HAD DRAWN ME TO THIS CAT.

Precious "Tigre"



I approached his cage and instantly was smitten. He flirted, he posed, he had a regal sense of calm and the look of a tiny bobcat in his beige-mocha tinged face. His name was Tigre. (Nope, not a typo, that was his name!)

I held him, kissed him. I had fallen in love. My heart broke with the realization that I couldn't adopt him. I am only permitted to  have two pets in the condo where I live, and, the vet had advised, that with the special dynamic that exists between Cody and Dakota,  bringing a third pet into the mix could completely destroy the magic that currently exists between them.


Tigre and I

Tigre and I "Cat Chatting"

Simply Smitten


"I want to take you home with me"
My friend, Linda Wasche with Tigre


I cried. This cat  had claimed my heart and I could see that I had claimed his. He had literally been dumped in the street, WITH his collar. When his owner was called, he denied that the cat was HIS.

I couldn't bear to leave.

A woman and her adult daughter approached the cage just as I was readying myself to try and walk away.

I had begun a conversation with them and they told me about current and past cats that they had and how they were considering adopting another to be a kitty companion to a cat already living with the adult daughter.

I  looked at them and said,  "Please adopt this cat" I explained that I could feel that he was special. They played with him, held him and were immediately drawn into his feline spell.

Tigre, about to leave his cage forever


 The stories I heard had dispelled any fears that I may have had of their being appropriate adoptive "parents."

The adult daughter said:

"I can't afford him today. I have to wait until I am paid"

Afraid that the luxury of waiting did not exist, I said,  "If you adopt him, I will BUY him for you."

As they should have, they looked at me as if I was completely crazy. Who was this strange woman saying she would BUY the cat for them?

The adult daughter said:

"YOU will BUY him for me?"

ME: "Yes"

The adult daughter said: "Ok"

My heart flew, my feet danced as we made our way to the table to fill out the paperwork.  I paid the adoption fee feeling as if this was one of the most wonderful days of my life. I hoped I had saved a life. I couldn't save them all, but I felt as if I at least had  saved one.

"Tigre" Gets an "I'm Adopted!" Sign


My only request of the adult daughter was after having heard that she was on Facebook, that maybe, just maybe could she occasionally send me a photo or two? An update? Something about this magical cat to let me know that he was thriving in his new home and receiving the love that I wish I could give to the millions of homeless cats throughout the world, but can't?

Adult Daughter: "Oh yes!!! I will send you photos, I will update you!"

I  HAVE RECEIVED ONE.

That week.

Nothing more.

The only photo I received


I even checked photos on her Facebook page to see if there were any of Tigre, any updates. Not much. Maybe two photos and a comment about how her cat was adjusting to his living in their home.

On July 10th I left a light and airy comment asking her how he was doing.

I have heard nothing.

I have emotions that I am still wrestling with.

Should I have been the one to adopt  him?
Maybe. But logistically it was not in his or my best interest for the reason stated above and the honest fact that with my still being out of work, and my husband having retired, we simply could not afford another pet. Plain and simple. If we couldn't afford to adequately provide for a third, the answer was NO. I wanted to be a part of the SOLUTION, not be a contributor to the PROBLEM.

Did I make it possible for the wrong person to adopt him?
I don't know. What kills me is I may never know.

Is he  still living with her?
Same answer as above.

Do I have the right to know?
Initially I believed that YES, I do have a right to know. But after speaking with my dear friend Kim, of the wonderful blog, CindyLu's Muse and "Be The Change For Animals" who has fostered a HUGE number of pets, the answer is yes I have a right to know, but NO, I should never have expected that I would be updated. In a perfect world where you do the right thing and perform a kindness for another the answer would be, YES. In real life, when you do a kindness, you should NEVER expect anything in return.

Would I do it again?
YES. It warmed my heart  and satisfied my soul to have given this most incredible gift. It is always the right thing to "pay it forward" and I would gladly do it again.

When I do, I will do my best to keep my expectations in check and I will  PROTECT MY HEART. 


The boy who stole my heart,
"be a good boy in your new home"







"I wish you love, safety and security
for all of your nine lives"

Monday, July 16, 2012

Our Hearts Are Hurting....




"Warm light coming from far below,
Twinkling, sparkling is the candle's glow.
All is well up on the ridge,
The place we know as Rainbow Bridge.
Furbabies sleeping in heaven's light,
Tended by candles in the night.
Peaceful dreams be theirs to keep,
As they slumber in this night so deep.
Hearts on earth that miss them so,
Take comfort in the candle's glow.
Watching for them in skies above,
Bound eternally by a cord of love."



Precious Alex,
We will never, EVER
stop loving you
We will never, EVER
stop missing you
Your heart, your love, your bravery
will be a part of us furever
Our Angel Bobo  has his paws wrapped around you
protecting you, loving you
he will take good care of you
from his special place
over the bridge
We pray for strength for your Mom & Dad
in this most difficult time

With All Of Our Love,
and our deepest sympathy
Caren, Cody, Lenny and Dakota

Book Revew: "Cat and Crow: An amazing friendship" By Lisa Fleming, Illustrations by Anne Marie Dominik-Harris. ENTER TO WIN A COPY!

One of my favorite parts of blogging, (if not THE most favorite part), is the books that are sent to me to review either directly from the publisher, the authors themselves, or those that were sent to me via recommendations from dear friends.

 I am delighted to share with you:



Cat and Crow An Amazing Friendship  (published by Collage Books Inc.), was written by Lisa Fleming. One of my dear cat blogging friends, (Layla Morgan Wilde of the Pettie nominated Cat Wisdom 101 and her other inspirational blog, The Boomer Muse), referred Lisa to me knowing that I would be greatly touched by this inspirational gem, and that I would enjoy featuring it. She couldn't have been more correct.
This black cat was the FIRST
cat to give a "4-paw" review!
We couldn't agree more!
Photo courtesy of Lisa Fleming

Cat and Crow is based on the true story of a cat, (Cassie), and a crow, (Moses), who, in spite of  their obvious differences, became the best of friends.

When compiling a list of "must read" Children's books, be SURE that this one is on your list!

Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming's Facebook Page
To Visit, Please Click Here


The story originates at the home of Ann and Wally Collito who witnessed this phenomenon take place and watched in joy and wonder as  they first noticed the crow (Moses), feeding a worm to the black and white kitten (Cassie). It is believed that the crow saved the kitten's life and decided to designate itself as the kitten's mother, playmate, guardian angel and best buddy.

Every day for four years the Collito's watched the amazing display of friendship with complete awe.

Look carefully!
If you look at the door you will see
Moses' head peeking in
looking for Cassie!!
He would tap at with his beak every morning
until the Collito's would let Cassie out!
Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming


How could two animals who were not in the least connected genetically, and who were supposed to be mortal enemies,  become the best of friends?

Moses and Cassie "hug"
Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming


When Lisa Fleming first saw the cat and crow friendship on  YouTube she knew she had to share this inspirational and awe-inspiring story with the world.

From Lisa: "I knew in my heart that I wanted to share this true story with the world. When I contacted the Collitos, they welcomed me into their home and encouraged me to write the story of these two incredible animals. I have since formed a special connection with this family and their beloved cat, Cassie."


Lisa Fleming, Wally Collito and "Cassie"
The book is also dedicated in remembrance of
Ann Collito
Photo compliments of Lisa's Facebook page
to visit click here



Lisa wrote this enlightening  Children's book (which is charmingly illustrated by Anne Marie Dominik-Harris),  in an attempt to "help educate future generations on being part of the solution for helping feral and stray cats."







If a crow can adopt, care for, love and protect a feral kitten, without "seeing" physical and genetic differences, why can't some of us do the same for feral kittens as well as for each other?

I couldn't help but be reminded of the Paul McCartney song "Ebony and Ivory" when reading this book.  How ironic that Moses the crow is black and Cassie the cat is black and white? Something to think about.



In addition to the heartwarming story as written by Lisa,  the back of the Cat and Crow has an update about Moses and Cassie, charming photographs from the Collito's, various newspaper clippings, a section called  Feathers (Fun Facts About Crows) with information provided by Bernd Heinrich, Ph.D (professor emeritus in the biology department at the University of Vermont), and a section entitled Fur (Fun Facts about cats) with information provided by Nancy Peterson, Cat Programs Manager for the Humane Society of the United States.

The story of the Cat and Crow is a story of complete trust, acceptance, loyalty, protection, devotion, having the capability of being able to love and nuture  another completely,  in spite of  obvious  differences.

Wally Collito believes that if it hadn't been for the loving care of Moses, Cassie, who was a feral kitten (before she was taken in by the Collito's) would have died.  Lisa informed me that Cassie just turned 13 this past June!!! 

Wally Collito also states in the video on YouTube:

 "One important lesson is that two strangers need to get along with each other."
If they do, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!

To that I offer a resounding Amen.



Photo Courtesy of Lisa Fleming's Facebook Page
To visit, click here


ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lisa Fleming, a former newspaper columnist and freelance writer, is passionate about animals and wildlife. She is dedicated to helping those in need, by creating ideas that inspire charitable endeavors in her Southwest Florida community. She does many elementary school visits, helping to educate future generations about feral and stray cats.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Anne Marie Dominik-Harris, a University of the Arts graduate and Fulbright Memorial Fund Scholarship recipient, is a high school art teacher in Southern New Jersey, who also enjoys a freelance career in illustration.


ISBN 978-0-938728-23-8
www.collagebooks.com

GIVE-AWAY OPEN TO EVERYONE!
One lucky reader is going to win a copy of Cat and Crow An Amazing Friendship!

 TO ENTER:
Leave a comment telling me why you would like to win this book. (Be sure I have a way to reach you should you be the winner)

BONUS ENTRY: "like" Cat And Crow on Facebook by clicking here and let me know in a separate comment that you did so.


CONTEST DEADLINE: MONDAY JULY 30, 2012 AT 11PM EASTERN. WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY AUGUST 1, 2012.


GOOD LUCK!!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Could YOUR Cat Be The Next Picasso? Enter to WIN A Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit by Artcasso

Photo Courtesy of Artcasso
Hi everyone it's Cody and I am here to wish you  all a  Happy Friday the 13th!! Today isn't an unlucky day around here that is for sure! A few of you are gonna be SUPER LUCKY!!

I have been keeping this one under my paw for a couple of months! A while back Mom had received this painting kit for cats called the Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit!! which is made by Artcasso. Betcha didn't know that cats can paint huh? We can do A LOT of things that humans aren't aware that we can do. We just like to keep them under our paw and not reveal them until the time is right. Well, TODAY, the time is right my furiends!

Art washes away from the soul
the dust of everyday life
----Pablo Picasso

When Mom showed me the Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit I could barely contain myself!


 I wanted to dive right in but  I had to read the box first because I was afraid I would make a mess. Guess what my furiends? There is NO MESS! 

If your Mom is nervous about making a mess like my Mom is, she doesn't have to worry! This kit comes with 3 paint shields that keeps the paint off of your paws and off of the carpet!

Along with the paint shields each kit contains:

5 colors of acrylic paint (my only complaint was that there appeared to be something wrong with my tube of blue paint. As soon as I used the color blue it was practically gone!)





the kit also contains:

3 pieces of canvas art paper
1 picture frame (which Mom screwed up when she opened, but that was HER fault! Mom is impatient and doesn't read directions thoroughly!)
1 surprise cat toy!


This fun kit comes with complete instructions so that in just a few easy paw-steps your kitty will be creating a masterpiece that you will cherish forever!! Or if you get really lucky you  just might be able to sell it on eBay once you become the hit of the "hip-feline-art-set", just sayin.'
sorry if some of the photos
are blurry
Mom was using her Android phone
and I was so excited it was
hard to keep up with me!





Kitties this is sooo much fun that I want all of you to get in on the action! You can order a Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit right here. The super nice people at Artcasso are offering all readers of Cat Chat a 25% discount when you enter the code CATCHAT when you check out! (Discount code will remain active until July 31, 2012)


And...there is FREE SHIPPING on orders of 2 or more kits (U.S. only please)!

THERE IS STILL MORE!!


GIVE-AWAY!! 5 lucky kitties (U.S. only we are sorry!) are going to win their own Kitty-Casso™ Art Kit!!


HOW TO ENTER:
1) leave a comment telling me what your favorite color is!


CHANCE FOR 4 EXTRA ENTRIES!!
Like Artcasso on Facebook-leave a comment telling me you did
Follow Artcasso on Twitter-leave a comment telling me you did
Like Cat Chat With Caren & Cody on Facebook-leave a comment telling me you did
Follow @catchatcaren on Twitter-leave a comment telling me you did


ENTRY DEADLINE: Monday July 23, 2012 at 11pm EST. Winners will be announced Wednesday, July 25, 2012. Be sure in your comment to leave a way for me to reach you should you be one of the lucky winners!!!


GOOD LUCK!! You just might be able to have a purrfect painting, just like MINE!!
Love, Cody