Ugh! Our cats are hiding from family members. — There’s an element of truth in most clichés. Over the past few weeks, Max and Jasper have been embodying the quintessential scaredy cats. For various reasons, my teen daughter and her partner have been spending most of their time at our house and not very much at her other mom’s…

The facts are irrefutable — Cats have long been associated with mystical happenings. They have been considered both good and bad omens, worshipped as deities, and viewed as sorcerers. I’ve been observing our cats, Max and Jasper, and have come to the conclusion that cats are, indeed, magical. Allow me to present my proof. Cats…

What would you have done? — As I get older I find myself wondering more and more if I am still in touch with the times, keeping up with technology, understanding — if not actually using — current common slang, and knowing about pop culture. I’m only in my mid-50s and so far, I feel like…

I think we’ve reached the pinnacle — I’ve shared a fair amount lately about how routine-oriented — and possibly spoiled — our cats are. (For a glimpse, see Adorable Cats Make Meeting Their Demands Worth the Hassle.) Our carpets and hardwood floors are littered with furry mice and sparkly balls. There’s a dusting of fish flakes on…

An assessment of feline suitability as drivers — In the US, automobiles are a necessity in most cities and towns. Lack of adequate public transportation and inefficient urban planning means driving is usually required to get where you want to go. It’s an integral part of our lives. …

Clever cats have a lot to teach us. — I’ve been staring at our cats wondering how I can tap into their level of creativity. There may not be many (or any) feline-created masterpieces hanging in museums, musical recordings topping the charts, or novels on the best-seller lists but let’s be real, anyone who can easily find at least…

Even the Dog Agrees — Two mornings ago I witnessed the cutest thing. (Yes, we all think our pets do the cutest things and we are all correct.) I was putting Kola Dog’s harness on her for our morning walk. She was excited and wiggly, as usual. What wasn’t usual is that our cat, Jasper…

Spoiled much? — “Enjoy your trip, Mom!” said no cat ever. Leaving our pets behind when going on vacation always causes me a teeter-totter of emotions. I’m usually excited to go wherever it is, see new things and get out of the routine of our daily life. I also like the break from…

The Thing About Snakes — Snakes. If simply reading that word sends shivers down your spine, you’re in good company. About half of the world’s population, including Indiana Jones, feels anxious about snakes with 2–3% being genuinely phobic. As for me, it’s not that I don’t like snakes. I think snakes are fascinating. So is fire…