I'm Hazel Lucy and Buddie is my furhusband

After reading SAMOA the Boa Queen's Diary I had to say something!
Looks like HQ goofed!
WORLD's COOLEST DOG & CAT SHOW

Don't forget to vote!

Halp! Halp!

OMC! Mom is nuts!
She's threatening to give me a bath JUST so she can take a picture to enter me in the "Wet Cat" category of the World's Coolest Cat Pictures Contest! Does this sound like something a normal person would do! To inflict such a thing on me, oh where can I run, where can I hide? Of course, whoever said that catstermoms are normal!!!!

Halp!

frantic Hazel Lucy

Have you entered the World's Coolest Dog & Cat Show?

It's that time of year again!
Enter your photos to win cool prizes!
Don't forget you can earn zealies for voting!!!
See Hazel Lucy in the World's Coolest Cat Pictures Contest!

Here are the Categories, now go get those great pictures!!!
Costumes & Shades
Craziest Tail
Naughtiest
Best Friends
Stretch & Yawn
Playful
Scaredy Cat
Sitting Cat
Captivated Cat
Climber
Sleeper
Funny Face
Wet Cat
Outdoor & Country Cats
Daredevil

Candy Corn Catster
Hazel Lucy

===========================
ANOTHER PET FOOD PROBLEM (IAMS)

IAMS PET FOOD PROBLEM

We purr for all cats and dogs sickened by bad pet food.

Sisters of the Corn!

Remember that scary movie?
Presenting "Sisters of the Corn" the funny sequel!!
Hee! MOL! OMC!
Starring the lovely, the one and only SNOWIE and her sister of the corn Hazel Lucy! We two fun felines are ready to give out treats when you come knockin' on our doors! We are ready to pawty down for Halloween! And just to throw you off, TUFFY is a brother of the corn!

silly HL

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

NUTRO PET FOOD RECALL . . . DIAMOND BRAND RECALL

OCTOBER 2009 NUTRO PET FOOD RECALL

NUTRO PRESS RELEASE Concerning Recalled Pet Foods
Everything below is directly from their website.

Although Nutro said it found pieces of melted plastic in the production line for dry dog and cat food products, the company is not pulling any feline food off the market.

NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs
UPC: 79105 51313
4.5 LB
Best by date: 09/10/10

NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® Chicken Meal, Rice and Oatmeal Formula Small Bites Puppy
UPC: 79105 23050
5 LB
Best by date: 09/10/10

PRODUCT THAT MADE IT TO SELECT PETCO STORES IN CA, NV, HI and UT ONLY
NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs
UPC: 79105 51315
30 LB
Best by Date: 09/10/10

Nutro said it shipped those bags of puppy food to PetSmart stores in California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico.

=================
http://www.consumeraffairs.com /news04/2009/10/diamond_pet_food.html

OCTOBER 2009 DIAMOND PET FOODS RECALL

Deficiencies in the thiamine levels of certain bags of Premium Edge Finicky Adult and Premium Edge Hairball cat food have prompted Diamond Pet Foods to pull the products from distribution.

Diamond said it is pulling from the market Premium Edge Finicky Adult and Hairball cat foods that have the following date codes: RAF0501A22X 18lb., RAF0501A2X 6 lb., RAH0501A22X 18 lb., RAH0501A2X 6lb

Symptoms of thiamine deficiency will be neurological in nature, according to the company. “Any cats fed these date codes that display these symptoms should be immediately taken to a veterinarian.

consumeraffairs.com
(this organization has proven itself trustworthy time and time again. I have faith that they provide timely and accurate information.)

We must remain ever vigilant, never thinking for a moment that we are completely safe.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

And now the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

This good girl volunteered to work on The Get Well Purr List. It's really long and takes a lot of work to keep updated. Yep, I'm talking about the incredible LOLA!! When you receive a pmail from her, you can give her your health update. Not only is Lola a good girl, she has a jeweled bathroom and she is a good Olde Furt!

Soon after SCOOTER (whom we love and miss) crossed the bridge in February, she sent Lola to live with the folks. Lola was on the get well purr list herself because all her teeth had to be removed. She was given a new chance at a healthy and happy life and she's making the most of it, carrying on the tradition of caring and helping and leading just like Scooter. LOLA likes Popeye's Chicken, climbing, exploring, and jumping way up high. "Being Lola" must be wonderful! Check out her page and videos.
This good girl is a good volunteer!

happy,
Hazel Lucy

Big Announcement on Monday!

Heee!
I'll be making a big announcement on Monday!

Hazel Lucy

I was tagged by Nonny and also Flossie to play Halloween Tag!
The things I like about Halloween are:

1. Sleeping!
2. Sleeping in my Candy Corn Hat!
3. Sleeping on my orange Tranquility blanket!
4. Saying "Happy Halloween" to my Catsterpals!
5. Making mom think I really know what goblins are!

Still deciding whichcats to tag!

OCTOBER 2009 NUTRO and DIAMOND BRAND PET FOOD RECALLS

consumeraffairs.com
(this organization has proven itself trustworthy time and time again. I have faith that they provide timely and accurate information.)

OCTOBER 2009 NUTRO PET FOOD RECALL

NUTRO PRESS RELEASE Concerning Recalled Pet Foods
Everything below is directly from their website.

Although Nutro said it found pieces of melted plastic in the production line for dry dog and cat food products, the company is not pulling any feline food off the market.

NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs
UPC: 79105 51313
4.5 LB
Best by date: 09/10/10

NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® Chicken Meal, Rice and Oatmeal Formula Small Bites Puppy
UPC: 79105 23050
5 LB
Best by date: 09/10/10

PRODUCT THAT MADE IT TO SELECT PETCO STORES IN CA, NV, HI and UT ONLY
NUTRO® ULTRA™ Puppy food for dogs
UPC: 79105 51315
30 LB
Best by Date: 09/10/10

Nutro said it shipped those bags of puppy food to PetSmart stores in California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico.

=================
http://www.consumeraffairs.com /news04/2009/10/diamond_pet_food.html

OCTOBER 2009 DIAMOND PET FOODS RECALL

Deficiencies in the thiamine levels of certain bags of Premium Edge Finicky Adult and Premium Edge Hairball cat food have prompted Diamond Pet Foods to pull the products from distribution.

Diamond said it is pulling from the market Premium Edge Finicky Adult and Hairball cat foods that have the following date codes: RAF0501A22X 18lb., RAF0501A2X 6 lb., RAH0501A22X 18 lb., RAH0501A2X 6lb

Symptoms of thiamine deficiency will be neurological in nature, according to the company. “Any cats fed these date codes that display these symptoms should be immediately taken to a veterinarian.

We must remain ever vigilant, never thinking for a moment that we are completely safe.

Hazel Lucy

I'm a Candy Corn Catster!

As you can see from my Candy Corn Hat, I have a thing about corn!
Well I guess it makes a lot of sense! Because mom politely reminded me that I do my business in corn too! Yep, my litter boxes have World's Best Cat Litter in them, which is corn. So, while I don't eat corn, I do wear it and use it for my bathroom. And it's just about time for mom to buy a big bag of candy corn so that she can eat it!
I'm all about Calvin, but I'm all about corn too! MOL!

corny Hazel Lucy

Please Do Not Enter NUTRO's Free Food Sweepstakes

NUTRO pet food company is again pushing the sweepstakes for free food, but remember, this company's food was recalled, just a few months ago. We've lost friends because of this company's disregard for the health and welfare of animals. This sweepstakes is their way of trying to win back customers lost due to recent recalls. In most cases a voluntary recall means the FDA investigated and told them the food needed to be recalled.

Back from Our Anniversary Trip and Catster Comment Fleas!

My handsome mangoman * BUDDIE * and I have returned, all rested and ready for Autumn! My furhusband is the kindest and most romantic cat I know! Chef Mow-Wee cooked up the most delightful dishes for us to eat! I kept calling him "Chef Mee-Ow", he laughed and spooned out more mussels with garlic pesto! Can you say yum!!!

So we're back and what do we see? In our email are dozens of notifications! COMMENTS on our Comments in othercats' diaries. It's a bit ridiculous! We asked HQ to make this an account preference option. So if I make a comment on a cat's diary, I am then deluged with email notifications about every comment on that diary! It's too much! Please ask HQ to give us an "Opt-out" from comment notifications unless they are on OUR OWN diaries. Whew, that was hard work!

We love Fall weather. It's brisk and pretty and all things wonderful.

We are purring for many sick ones, and saying extra purrs for those who made the journey across the bridge....

Hazel Lucy

NUTRO (of recent Pet food RECALLS) offers free food????

Please friends, do NOT enter the sweepstakes for free NUTRO food, think it is for dogs right now. This company is responsible for the deaths of dogs and cats recently.

That's all for today!
Hazel Lucy

Calvin is a DDP!

My handsome furhusband Buddie and I are still enjoying our 4th Wedding Annifursary! We were sailing near the Little Mermaid in Denmark when the captain burst in with a cablegram for us. It read:

"High Priority
Saturday, 26 September 2009
CALVIN is a DDP!
Diary Gal awoke early to let you know."

Concats to Calvin! Keep eating!

hugs and purrs from Hazel Lucy and Buddie

Today is my 4th Wedding Annifursary!

It's here! The big day!
HAPPY ANNIFURSARY my darling furhusband BUDDIE!!!
You make my world go 'round!

I love being your tiny gumdrop furwife,
Hazel Lucy

Tomorrow is my Wedding Annifursary!

I'm sooo excited!
Have you visited the Wedding Pages yet?
Did you see Reebok and Nike and so many others as kittens! They were Guests at our wedding. Look how tiny they were!! It was a day to remember!

all aflutter,
Hazel Lucy

Hazel and Buddie Married FOUR Years!

Four years ago today I was having the last fitting of my wedding dress! My beloved BUDDIE was practicing his vows for the big day, September 24th! OOooh, my heart was pitter-patter every moment! There were 23 bridesmaids and 23 groomskittymen, and lots of guests who journeyed the globe to be with us for this special day! I'm swooning all over again just thinking about those wonderful times! Ours was the VERY FIRST CATSTER WEDDING! Buddie proposed just before Valentine's Day of 2005. If you'd like a big smile and lots of giggles, please take a look at BUDDIE & HAZEL'S WEDDING Pages!!!

tiny gumdrop and happy furwife
Hazel Lucy

P.S. Please remember our pals on The Get Well Purr List

Purrs for Calvin

Purring for CALVIN.
He came up with my pirate name.
Can't say much more 'cept I love this pirate and his whole entire family, even Newman.

teary,
HL

Photo Comments

I didn't realize there were already comments as I was trying out new photos, my apologies. Still not happy with the new photo but it will stay up. Did I say mom is making krazy hats? Any color, any height, and she learned to make pom-poms!
Also making shelter blankets for Furrever Friends Rescue and Volunteers Inc. in New Jersey, after hearing about them from Kaci Sunshine and Mittens.

busy modeling,
Hazel Lucy

Meaning of the Day and Calvin is Not Well

**** Update: Calvin is home!

Thinking of those people from that terrible day....

My pal CALVIN - Age 18 - is listless, not eating, he is at the vet overnight receiving antibiotics and potassium, on IV. Purrs for Calvin.

My Toofies are all Clean!

I'm home! I'm home!
And I want to thank you for purring for mom, she was surprised that she didn't have one second of worry! My toofies are clean, my blood is good, my gums are ok and I'll have antibiotic drops for them for a week. The vet used gas so I came out of the anesthesia relatively awake! I'm home drinking water and eating! And meowing!
My doc bought 2 Tranquility blankets which lowered the bill a lot! He has a bunch of kitties at home. So we're going to rest now because I kept mom awake the whole entire night asking where were my water bowls and food. Thanks again for your kind purrs, and thoughts!

Sparkly,
Hazel Lucy

Back from our Second Honeymoon!

My wonderful handsome mangoman furhusband BUDDIE and I have returned from our whirlwind world-wide 2nd honeymoon. Our FOURTH wedding annifursary is a few weeks away but our bags were filled with yarn from all over the globe so we had to return!!! I cannot believe my darling Buddie wrote about my 'um, tan line! I'm a shy, modest girl....

Anyhow, we really came back because Wednesday morning I will have my toofies cleaned. Mom's already nervous. She can't bear to be away from me. No food or water after midnight!

happy with my hubby,
Hazel Lucy

I'm a Pirate???

Um, having a bit o' trouble finding my pirate and ship name!
And no, this is not my pirate hat.
It's my new creation, the FROOT LOOP Hat!
First the Tutti Frutti Hat, now the Froot Loop, does mom like candy?
Open for pirate name and ship suggestions.

soon-to-be-pirate
Hazel Lucy

My Handsome Furhusband Buddie is a DDP!

Had a touch of the vapors upon seeing that my handsome mangoman furhusband BUDDIE is a DDP today! I'm so much in love with him! Buddie spends most of his time flying here and there to hold the paw and soothe the brow of sick kitties. Sometimes he will read to them, or tell jokes, or even try to sing! More often than not, he is quietly at the side of a very sick or scared kitty. They tell me his mere presence is reassuring.
Oh how I love him!

proud to be his tiny gumdrop furwife,
Hazel Lucy

Wednesday Thank Yous!

Thank You to everyone who gave me Rosettes, Special Gifts and Treats (F5). I'm eternally grateful. I hope I didn't leave anyone out. I now save the Rosette emails into a folder to help me stay organized.
Love you all very much,
Hazel Lucy

Hearts: Gordy, Rascal, Buscuit-angel, Mercedes, Wally, Jake-angel, Arnold P., Cali & Leo, Sammie, KC & Family, Jake-angel, Cosmo, Nonny
Lemon Drinks: Ducky, Walter the Cat
Cherry Drinks: Goldy, Waverly
Grape Drink: Mercedes
Beach Ball: Sugar Honey
Ice Cream: Jordan Eliz. Jones, Wan-Lea Wendy, Ruben, Lucy, Napolean & Colorado
Pink Rosettes: Mr. Bean, Lola
Red Rosette: Arnold P.
Watermelons: Arnold P., Snowie, Midnight & Family, Smudge, Purrscilla
Baseball: Jeter Harris
Roses: Felix, Waverly, Mr. Biggles, Mikey, Aryeh, Little Mask
Planet Earth: Pickles
Dozen Roses: my furhusband Buddie
Power of the Paw: Jack
Hero Ribbons: Lucky Boo, Zoey
Forever Crowns: Angel, Platypus, Zoey, Pippin, Phanto, Karma
Emerald: Miss Wuss
Stars: Felix & Family, Smudge, Kodi & Tinker & Family, Buddie, Loki & Family, Tallulah
Mouse: Flossie
Blooming Sunflower: Disco NoFurNo & Family
Trophy: Snowie
Vase of Flowers: Felix
Stay Cool Pools: Platypus & Family, Jeter Harris, Martin & Family

Hat Krazed!

I am mom's hat model. And I don't always enjoy the work. So mom uses cloth ribbon to keep the hats on my head. As you can see, she's been rather busy. I prefer testing and approving blankets.... Anyhow, not looking forward to modeling the Halloween hats. Nope. But what's a gal to do?

I'm a Cat in My Hats
Hazel Lucy

New Name, Same Thread!

After 2-1/2 years of the name "Catsters in Need of Serious Purring", this thread is now officially called THE GET WELL PURR LIST. It was time to update the name. Most of you called it the purr list anyway! It's a lot easier to say too! And please stop by the list and purr for our fellow Catsters. Each name is a link that goes to their Catster page. You might even leave a note or a treat (F5) or a Rosette. It takes so little to make a big difference in a life!

Speaking of the Get Well Purr list,
MONTOYA - Age 7 months - will have his eyes removed and his lids sewn shut because of chronic infections, he was born blind. He will also be neutered. Surgery is Friday, August 28th. Major purrs needed for successful surgeries and quick and complete recovery for this sweet little guy.

purring
Hazel Lucy

I'm Gonna Be Sick!

It is rumored that Michael Vick (sic) is house-hunting a mile from my apartment. Much of the local media is pulling out the stops encouraging everyone to welcome him; talking about second chances and putting the past in the past. It's all about football, i.e. money, of course. This is too recent, it's a big wound. He fulfilled his sentence in the justice system, but in my opinion has not repaid society.
Think I'm gonna barf....

Help me design a bumper sticker for mom's car!

disappointed
Hazel Lucy

Today is Buddie's 5th Catster Annifursary!!!

Goody!
The love of my lives, the guy with the biggest and kindest heart, my handsome mangoman furhusband BUDDIE has now been in catsterland for FIVE whole entire years!!!
Concats my darling!

love,
your tiny gumdrop,
Hazel Lucy

I Had To Share This!

This came to mom in a computer newsletter.

"Dan was a single guy living at home with his father and working in the family business. When he found out he was going to inherit a fortune when his sickly father died, he decided he needed a wife with which to share his fortune.

One evening at an investment meeting he spotted the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Her natural beauty took his breath away. "I may look like just an ordinary man," he said to her, but in just a few years, my father will die, and I'll inherit $200 million."

Impressed, the woman obtained his business card and three days later, she became his stepmother.

Women are so much better at financial planning than men."

laffin 'n laffin
Hazel Lucy

P.S. - Here's a helpful thread from the Cat Health Forum:
Giving Your Cat Pills - Suggestions

Tutti Frutti!

I love the new hat mom designed! It's the TUTTI FRUTTI HAT.
It just sort of happened, she doesn't plan anything. And thanks to cousin MERCEDES for the name!
So, am I confident enough to wear this hat?

Thanks Little Richard!

Hazel Lucy
Crochet Maniac

I Have Good Self-Esteem!

With today's new photo mom said I look very confident!
So I remembered the "Babes in Blue" contest from April 2007! What a time! I never knew why they chose me as "Confidence in Blue". A lot has happened in catsterland since 2007. I am confident of mom's love and 100% sure that mom thinks of me most of the minutes of the day. There's nothing so comforting to me as certainty. I can handle change, but only because I know mom protects me and tells me every day how much she loves me!

Maybe this is my tail (tale!) of devotion for my mom!

Confidence is Good!
Hazel Lucy

Tyler Mr Boombastic soars with the Angels

I'm sad today because my pal TYLER - Mr BOOMBASTIC made his journey to the Bridge last night. I'll miss him.

Hazel Lucy

Concats to Mercedes (Mercy) on FIVE Years in Catsterland!

OMC! Can you believe it?
Tomorrow will be MERCEDES' FIFTH Catster Anniversary!!!
Mercy was the 91st cat to join Catster. At least that's what mom has figured. There are slight discrepancies in the two ways HQ calculates this number. Either way, Mercy is one of the founding Catsters and is very active on the site. We love her and her humongous family! Head on over and see her in her Tutti Frutti Hat! Let's celebrate FIVE years of fun and frolic, and fantastic pictures!

And a special concats of love to MILO whom I believe was the 126th cat to join Catster!
We love you Milo!

cousin Hazel Lucy

Today is National Watermelon Day!!!

* The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt.
* Over 1,200 varieties of watermelons are grown worldwide in 96 countries.
* In some Mediterranean countries, the taste of watermelon is paired with the salty taste of feta cheese.
* Watermelon is 92% water.
* Watermelon's official name is Citrullus Lanatus of the botanical family Curcurbitaceae. It is cousins to cucumbers, pumpkins and squash.
* By weight, watermelon is the most-consumed melon in the U.S., followed by cantaloupe and honeydew.
* Early explorers used watermelons as canteens.
* The first cookbook published in the U.S. in 1796 contained a recipe for watermelon rind pickles.
* In 1990, Bill Carson of Arrington, TN grew the largest watermelon at 262 pounds that is still on the record books (1998 ed. Guinness Book of World Records).
* Watermelon has no fat or cholesterol and is an excellent source of vitamins A, B6 and C and contains fiber and potassium.

The United States currently ranks fourth in worldwide production of watermelon.

having a yummy day,
Hazel Lucy

Animal Dyson vs. Mr. Air Conditioner!

Today mom vacuumed (sic) the apartment. She did it because a friend was going to so mom said she would also. Cleaning takes a bit of motivation! You should see the poor woman about half-way through, she's all bent over and aching. Anyhow she was in the bedroom and turned Mr. A/C on, then turned on Animal Dyson. The breaker tripped and ooops, no power! Animal Dyson is sooo powerful it doesn't want any other large machine sucking its power!
This is the power of our Animal Dyson!

What mom loves sooo much is that after each cleaning she can easily empty the canister. No more guessing on how full the bag might be.
There was a lot of corn in the canister, wonder where it came from....

a clean floor is a good floor,
Hazel Lucy

My Growing Catster Family!

Oh how many Catster relatives I have!
In recent months and days the number has grown.

KGM (that means KittyGodMom) to:
TOBY age 6 months is part of Ruben & Gordy's Family

auntie Hazel Lucy to:
MARVEL ANN age 3 months is part of Taz & Boots' family

LUCKY LIZZY age 1 month is part of Moozer's family

I think if I am auntie to one member of a family then I am to all the youngins in a family! I love every one of them sooo much!

with a full and happy heart,
Hazel Lucy

We Need A Tech Support Blog

I love Catster!
And in wanting to help keep it the great community it has become we're hoping HQ will echo our desire for a Tech Support Blog.

There are problems with cats being unable to stay logged in. It is a website problem and has been extremely frustrating for affected Catsters. There are questions about backups, hijacked pages, etc. I won't go into that here. Cats could post their problems, HQ and all of us would easily see what's going on. We'd like to know what's being done, how issues are prioritized, etc. Everything would be in one place for all to see.

We'd learn about the browsers Catsters are using and why. We could learn more about cookies and settings and such. Quick and simple ways to back up what's on your pages. There are pawsome technical people in the community who may have solutions. As this great community grows, and HQ has proven to be a good steward, we'd really appreciate this as a 2-way street to better communication and problem-solving. Having everything in one place will improve our Catster experience.

Ok, started the Tech Support Group. This may be another way to go. It's a public group. We'd really like HQ's input.

As always, thanks HQ for listening.
Hazel Lucy

Here are 2 threads asking for the Tech Support Blog:
Plus Informational Forum Thread

Tips, Tricks & Help Forum Thread

The Real Heros!

MILO is an Autism Service Dog. His mom helped make the Hero Ribbon in honor of his work, and in honor of all those who help others. The Ribbon was designed by the team of Dogster MILO and Catster SAWYER.
From Milo's diary:
"Wow! I just found out I won the Dogster Virtual Gift Contest! We designed the Hero Ribbon for all doggie and kitty heroes out there that help their people daily."

There are dogs that sniff out cancer, dogs that know when a seizure is coming, dogs who find lost people, therapy dogs and cats, cats who alert deaf people to the doorbell, and much more. This Ribbon is for those of us in the animal kingdom who help by serving.
I am honored to have the Hero Ribbon on my page!

Hazel Lucy

New Rosettes, Old Rosettes!

I'm so happy to see our Blue, Red, and Pink Ribbon Rosettes back! My furhusband BUDDIE is famous for giving the Blue Ribbon Rosettes to sick cats. These are the "gang healing Rosettes". They were gone for a time but now are back, except for the White one. We sure hope they will not disappear again.

HQ said it had to do with how much space is available.
I suggested a drop-down box so that there would be plenty of space for all of them. I mean, they asked us to make new Rosettes, and it would be really cool if we had a drop-down box that could house ALL of them.

Anyhow, I'm busy trying to update the get well purr list, Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread. There are over 100 names on the List now. Many of them are very very sick. Some will get better, some will not, but we purr for them all to have good medical care and quality of life.

purrs,
Hazel Lucy

Happy Birthday America!!!

We are truly blessed to have Catsterland! (Thank you Ted)
I woke up to a pmail from ALFIE who lives all the way across the ocean in merry olde England. The Mother Country! Alfe said I'm the Grand Marshall for The Cat’s Meow’s 4th of July Purrade! Thanks Skeezix! Everycat is a winner!

Well I looked at all the cool cats in the parade! Beautiful flags and collars and boas! Concats to everyone wearing Red, White and Blue today!

I'll tell my handsome mangoman furhusband BUDDIE! We're on Ari's yacht headed for New York Harbor for the evening's festivities and fireworks!

Red, White and Blue,
Hazel Lucy

Going Yachting for the 4th!

Oooh, I am sooo excited!
My handsome mangoman furhusband BUDDIE has the use of the yacht once owned by Ari! We'll be cruising the Agean Sea and visiting villages for rest and relaxation. I can't wait to walk down cobblestone roads paw-in-paw with Buddie. He is the most thoughtful and considerate of furhusbands. I'm sorry we'll miss the parties here but we need some time for ourselves.

And, I decided that I am Honey Cantelope Ice Cream! Orange of course, just like Buddie!

I've updated the Tranquility Blanket pages but I'm waiting for a lot of you cool cats to send me photos! It's up to 4 pages now. Oh, and if you click on the photos you go right to your Catster pages!!!

sailing the ocean blue,
Hazel Lucy

OMC! DDP!

WOW!
I wake up and what do I see? A pmail from PORKCHOP to his auntie Hazel Lu that we're both DDP today! I just love being an auntie! Thanks for DDP, Diary Gal!!!

It's gonna be a very WARM day here in beautiful Purrsville. Humidity, ugh! I'm very excited because the 15 Snuggle blankets arrived at the Penna. SPCA where YOO HOO and MILLIE were treated and saved. Millie was on "Animal Cops Philadelphia" in May. The yarn was donated by friends and we're using every bit of it to make those shelter kitties a little more comfortable. I can't think of anything that brings my heart more joy. There are so many Catsters doing good in so many ways, I want to applaud you all for doing so much for others, especially in this time of great need when jobs and homes are disappearing.

And still, we need joy, laughter and silliness to balance the serious stuff. Like Catster Weddings with kittens and cooties! Like games in Forums, like fun and games in Catster groups. Silly photos and captions! FUN!

My own update: PROZYME is working great for me, I only need it once a day in some wet food. I still scoot at times and have had the occasional accident outside the box but mom just giggles and says she adores me! I'm a lucky girl and I know it!

Don't forget F5 !!!! Please stop by the Get Well Purr List, Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread and say hi to some of our ailing pals.

happy,
Hazel Lucy

You're Invited to a Wedding on Sunday!

Everycat is invited to the wedding of the very handsome STUMPY and the lovely English CATHY!

The wedding will take place HERE on Sunday, June 21st:
1 pm Pacific (Catster) time
3 pm Central time
4 pm Eastern time

Stumpy and Cathy's Solstice Wedding

Kittens welcome, there will be no cooties!

Hazel Lucy
Certified Catster Minister

MORE BAD NEWS ABOUT PET FOOD & GREENIES

Will Pill Pockets be next?
NUTRO sells them too.

NUTRO claims it is the lack of "education" about the proper purchase and use of Greenies that has led to the deaths of dogs and cats. I wouldn't go to a vet who sold them! Guess we caring consumers are just plain stupid.

I also have a major concern about treats, do we understand what's in them?

Your thoughts and experiences are welcome, please join this group:
Pet Food - Don't Be Fooled (Catster group)

NUTRO Pulls Greenies Dental Chews from Supermarkets

Nature's Variety Pet Food - Product Withdrawal

FDA Pet Food Problems

Evanger's Pet Food Problems

IAMS Food Problems

Canidae New Formulation creating difficulties for pets

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
A ginormous Concats to COTW * TOULOUSE *

My First Bath of 2009

Just look at me!
I spent hours making myself fluffy again!
Mom left a cabinet open and I went in. She never left it open before, but wanted it to dry out. Apparently the sink was leaking into the cabinet below, FOR YEARS, way before we moved here!! Mr. Maintenance Man is going to fix everything this week.

When she couldn't find me and saw me come out of there she just about freaked! She looked for signs of anything amiss, checking the color of my gums, my nose (my nose?) and making sure I was walking ok. Although there don't seem to be bad chemicals under there it is still one of those places no one should visit!

She didn't want me on the bed knowing where I'd been, so before I could do anything about it, I was plopped into the tub and bathed. I just stood there looking up at her. I didn't get upset and only tried once to climb out. A few wet towels later I was on the bed grooming. So you can see from my new main photo, I was busy. I looked a lot worse but mom wanted to leave me with Some dignity. Now I smell great and feel oh so soft, and happily for me, I'll be Furminated later!

A very clean
Hazel Lucy

PostScript:
Concats to the Tiny Terror of Tennessee *JASON CASH* for being chosen TKC's Cat of the Week!! (The Kitties Club group)

P.S.S. * Thanks for all the yummy Treats! Looks like F5 is a hit!

Cleaning Up My Stuff

First, I want to say how great it is to see F5 in use! Treats are really neat and I love them! And the price is right!!!

Second, I can now update the Tranquility Pages website. After months of trying to figure things out, mom made some simple buttons. There are now 4 pages to the site. Page One is almost empty and that's where all the new photos will go. Tranquility Blankets, Hats & Scarves. (If the link is deleted, you can find it on the right side of my page)

If you have not sent me photos of you with your Tranquility blankets or hats, or scarves, please email them to me and I'll add them to the page! The really cool thing is that mom made it so that if you click on your picture, it will bring you to your Catster page!

slow but getting there,
Hazel Lucy

Treats and the F5 Button!

Remember a long, long time ago in catsterland, there were only Treats? And we loved 'em! We learned how to leave tons and tons of them on cats pages! And best of all, they were and still are Free!

So, for those of you who were not around then, read below for the F5 trick.

See the F5 button on the upper left side of your keyboard? Good.

Now hit the treat button first, then when the box comes up, hit the F5 button repeatedly, you can do it fast or slow.
It's much harder to give treats if the page is busy with falling objects or music though.
In the early days of Catsterland, F5 was King! (not sure what to do for Apple computers) Remember when we broke the Catster Treat bank by giving SIMBA 250,000 treats? That was November 2006. It was an amazing era in Catster history!!!!

Remembering the good 'ole days!

Hazel Lucy

Weary

Please excuse me, my sincere apologies to everycat.
I've not been able to send individual thanks as I wanted. Everything is difficult, a struggle, a dread. I am suffering Catster burnout from groups and other efforts. I can't start or lead groups anymore, I need to find the joy again. Please, no rosettes, I would love them to be given to cats who are sick.

My main focus is the get well purr list, Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread which I've been doing for 2-1/2 years. The get well purr list is my main mission, don't hesitate to post a sick cat or pmail me.

I'm going to learn to play again!
Thank you,
Hazel Lucy

Warning About NUTRO Food

You know how many of our friends died because of the foods in 2007 and 2008? Thousands of dogs and cats. Please read these two diaries. It takes a long time for the whole truth to surface. In the meantime Nutro wants to take all the profit they can.

T C (an angel)'s Diary

TABBY's Diary Tabby was killed by Nutro food in 2007.

Consumeraffairs.com Nutro Information This is where we find the truth.

Nutro is not to be trusted, I say this with all sincerity. In their FDA response they say they've received no complaints. Do they think we are stupid? Apparently so.

I tried Greenies last year and they made my poop all green and runny! UGH.
NUTRO also makes PILL POCKETS!

concerned,
Hazel Lucy

Dyson Testing - Part Two

I used the Flat Out Head attachment in the bedroom. It picked up pieces of yarn, pieces of paper and pieces of Kleenex. Mom called Dyson Customer Service because, frankly, she is spatially-challenged. The poor woman cannot look at a picture or drawing and figure things out. The man mom spoke with was friendly, thorough, and when he didn't know something, he asked someone else. He didn't rush mom, I give this customer service experience an A+. And I bet he is cute too! Once she made the embarrassingly simple connection, we were up and vacuuming!

I love this vacuum because it gets right up to the furniture. The Flat Out Head worked great, but because of the hose, it's a bit awkward working to keep the main unit close enough. Having never used this type of attachment with my Eureka or any other vacuum (due to laziness), I don't know what the typical experience is. Overall, I wouldn't trade the DC28 for anything! It does everything it should, and it does it better than anything else I've seen!
There is just nothing like a truly clean floor!

Hazel Lucy

Catster Comment Fleas!

this is a test for Catster fleas

HQ said give yourself a treat then see if the comments show, did not help and I refreshed too.
Now on my full page it says 6 comments and I can see only one.

Gabby said if she logged out she could see them.

Emily Felicity said if I give myself a comment they will show up, and they DID! Smart girl!

These darn fleas are a pain.
HQ - you really need to work on this!

Jason Cash is COTD!!!

Holy Catnip!
The Tiny Terror of Tennessee, the little guy who hates being little, the guy with the Big black whisker, JASON CASH, the little kitten that my furhusband Buddie sent, the little orange dude who worked his paws to a frazzle at the PetCo cash register before being saved into a life of leisure, is.... CAT OF THE DAY!!!!
Go Cash!!! You're a BIG man in Catsterland now!!!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Dyson Testing

I don't know why or how, but I'm part of a group of Catsters/Dogsters who are testing the new Dyson DC28 (Animal) which will be in stores in June. Our goal is to test the Dyson and write about the pros and cons, etc.

I am amazed at how much stuff it picked up from the carpet AFTER having just vacuumed with the Eureka Boss SmartVac!!! A lot!
See my 2nd photo. I was amazed. Multiply that by 2,3,4 or more animals!!! As the saying goes, a picture is worth 1,000 words!

My living room has Berber carpet, (no pile), but it certainly feels better without all that litter in it. Mom is always barefooted in the apartment.

Have not used attachments yet, that's next.
Does not seem to be self-propelled and can be hard to push.

Dyson picked up a vitamin pill from the carpet when the Eureka SmartVac would not, no matter the height setting. I bought the Eureka last Fall after reading good reviews online - said it was good for homes with animals.

LOVE the way the canister empties! Not having a bag to remove is great, no muss no fuss, no dust or anything to come out. There was no visible dust coming from the unit during vacuuming. The Eureka has a HEPA filter and I was using the HEPA bags, but the unit overall did not work nearly as well.

You can read about the testing in these Forums:
Plus Informational - Dyson Test Thread

Grooming Forum - Honest to Goodness Vacuum Opinions

Now that we have this cyclonic beauty, mom won't fret so much over me tracking litter from room to room!!!

Hazel Lucy

Aldo Auction Winners!

CONCATULATIONS to all of you with the winning Bids!
Aldo and family are very very grateful, I can tell you!
You'll soon hear from Gimme/Ele' or me (no one else) about what to do next. Please be patient we have many winners to contact!
Thanks to everycat and everydoggie for your participation. The bidding was wild and furious, fun and filled with giggles, sighs, and many broken piggy banks! A special THANKS to the beautiful and talented (and may I say, extremely organized) * SAMOA * for putting up the auction page, posting your donations, and generally keeping the rest of us on track!!!

Happy Hazel Lucy

Gimme and Phoebe eloped!

A Humongous CONCATULATIONS to the newlyweds!!!
I was honored to perform the wedding ceremony for the beautiful and talented PHOEBE and the handsome Biker Dude GIMME (MR. PHOEBE) !!!!

They eloped and were married in Las Vegas! Holy Catnip!

Hazel Lucy
Certified Catster Minister

****************
Only a few more hours to bid on items in the * AUCTION FOR ALDO *

Only Two Days Left to Bid in the Auction!!!

Hurry! Hurry! Step right up!
Place your bids in the * AUCTION FOR ALDO *
Only 2 days left to snare some of the best deals anywhere!
Bid on items for yourself, your friends, or to donate to other causes!
* Books * Clothing * Artwork *
* A fantastic Resort Vacation in England *
* Hello Kitty Items *
* Winnie the Pooh Collectibles *
* Jewelry *
* Cat and Dog Collars/Harnesses and Toys * Cat Jungle Gym *
* Hazel Lucy Derby Hat *
* Various and Sundry Items *

Bidding ends on all auction items:
Midnight (Eastern Daylight), May 25, 2009

* * * * * * * * * *
I'm also honoring SIMBA Loved who entered the gates of heaven one year ago today. With her needle-lady hating antics and attempts at invisibility, Simba captured the heart of catsterland.
We love you forever and always,

Hazel Lucy

FDA - FIRM RECALL (NUTRO PET FOOD) PRESS RELEASE

FDA - (NURTO PET FOOD) FIRM RECALL PRESS RELEASE
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/nutro05_09.htm

Nutro Products Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Range of Dry Cat Food Products

The cat food is being voluntarily recalled in the United States and ten additional countries. This recall is due to incorrect levels of zinc and potassium in (the) finished product resulting from a production error by a US-based premix supplier.

This cat believes the list may be expanded.
Interesting that Nutro says they have received no complaints.
"Voluntary" recall means the FDA has investigated and asked the company to recall product.
Please pass the info to your friends and neighbors!

concerned,
Hazel Lucy

One Year Ago....

The call went out that ALDO, Tess and NOELLE needed help after their mom Laurel went to the bridge. It was 4:00 P.M. on May 18th, and a pmail came in from T C (an angel always) saying the cats were loose and Noelle had been taken to animal control. Within hours Catster and Dogster moms were on the ground in Tampa to help out. Catster and Dogster dads were part of this too! (You can read about the rescue effort in my diary beginning with May 18, 2008.)

It was a monumental, world-wide effort that brought Aldo and Noelle to their new homes. Catsters put up posters, made calls, spoke with area neighbors, and checked shelters for Tess. As her carrier was missing we hoped that a caring workman gave her a new home. I have every pmail and email from the rescue effort, they are a piece of living history.

So tonight I remember each and every one of you who sent purrs, gave your time, money and skills, to make the rescue happen. It was not the first rescue in catsterland, Catsters have been rescuing and rehoming cats all over the world.

What happened last May showed us the need for formalized written plans so that we are taken care of in the event something happens to our parents. Many organizations provide examples to help you make those plans. I came up with these examples but they are by no means complete. EMERGENCY CONTACT CARDS for your Home, Vehicles, Wallets. Give a copy to your vet. Give a copy to the person(s) who will care for us.

Catsters and Dogsters rock!

Hazel Lucy

**N.B.
Right now we're helping Aldo and his family with medical bills and other stuff. * THE AUCTION * is the place to find everything from books to artwork, jewelry and collars, harnesses, and even a vacation at a resort! AND, if you are a Hello Kitty fan, you won't want to miss what's there! Hey! My Derby Hat is in the auction too!

Thanking You!

I'm still working on the individual thank you notes! But here is the list for your viewing pleasure! Mom cannot move her neck. Working on the the thanks for Special Gifts. Hope I did not miss anyone, if I did, please forgive me.

Emerald - Pete, Oly & Family, Arnold P., Toffy & Vanessa, Ashley Grimalkins, Nikita
Diamond - Utu & Family, Anne, Boxie Brown, Striker & Family, Murray & Family, Sweet Shelby, Rocky Ann, Delilah
Star - Susie, Scooter & Lola, Tweak & Family, my furhusband Buddie
Earth - Dusty Miller, Hemingway & Family, the Albany Gang, Hector & Family, Maus & Family, Beloved Angel Amelia, Isis and Family, Dave, Anne
Black Cat - Aldo
Brussel Ball - Kit
Heart - Harvey, Sammie & KiKi family, Madison & Family, Harley, Alice, Sir Sonny Bono, Zoey, Delilah, Dave, Zoey, Anna & Family, Smokey & Punky, Alex angel, Mitzie & Family,
Smoochie - Tate & Family, Sky, Chrissy Whitesocks
Roses - Sarah Lee, Purrscilla & Family, Jake McCurdy, Hooch, Edgar & Family, Camille Rose, Sarah Lee, Sissy, Loki & Family, Delilah, Kashmere, Misha, Alfie (Luton-UK), Mr.Sam, Biscotti
Bluebirds - Pooter's, Oliver & Dewey, Pickles & Family, Smokey, Alfie & Teddy, Fredericka & Family, Alex Finnegan
Ladybugs - Freckles, Pandora & Family, Senna, Timo & Mietzi, Onyx-Bug Slayer & Family, Kingsley
Shrimp - Merlin, Simon & Family
Bunnies Jewel
Kite - Rocky & Dusty, Sawyer & Family, Rocky & Dusty, Cole & Family, Angel Kitty & Family, Puddles, Sneakers & Family, Ashlye Delicious Dazzle, Boingo & Family, Macallan, Luci, Cleopatra Grace
Tulips - Jack Matthew Cash, Cleopatra Grace, Andre & Family, Kashmere, Piewackit & Family, Hazel, Anne, Ferdie, The Drifter & Family, Rufus angel, Piglet & Family, Mittens & Family, Little Bit & Family, Bugsy & Family, Zack & Family
Rainbow - Navin R. Johnson-Davis, Delilah
Holy Cross - Dusty Miller & Family
Pink Rosettes - Arnold P., Muffin & Family, Wan-Lea Wendy Avalon
Blue Rosettes - Miss Minerva, Delilah, Striker & Family,
Red Rosettes - Snoopy
CupCake - Chef Rooster, Ozzy & Harriet, Aldo, Raven & Mercury, Mercedes(Mercy), Sally Maria, Diogi & Family, Aria & Family, Yoo Hoo, Edgar & Family, Caney Cat, Ethan & Family, KiKi & Family, Scooter, Hazel-Tinkerbell, Talullah & Family, Kailey, Lewis, Henry, Buddy, Murray-Willie & Family
Big Flower - Rocky & Dusty, Squeakers & Family, Albus & Family, Albie & Family, Mr. Fuzz
Trophy - Rizza
Blooming Sunflower - Teebo & Callie, CowCat & Family, Chelsea Louise & Family
Dozen Roses - Zeke & Family, Jazzi & Family
Party Hat - Wally & Family, Albie & Family, Sissel & Family, Margo R.K.N., Chessie & Family, Samoa & Family, Muppet, Thomas & Family, Goya Bean & Family, Hooch, Snoopy & Family, Logan & Family, Hetty Miep Wainthropp & Family, Ginny McBean, Meep & Bibi, Bobbie, Gimli, Mea & Family, Isaac & Family, Garfield & Family, Smokey, Rufus, Snowie
Nummy CupCake - Skeezix, Oliver
Vase of Flowers - Bruce (the Boss), Rizza
Balloons - Catsy Angel Princess, Zack & Family, Tyson & Family, Hambone & Family, Buster & Family, Phanto & Family
Big Cake - Buddie my handsome furhusband, Punkin & Sasha Maree, Bo Peep & Family, Lilly Lu
I Heart Mom - Reena & Family, Isis & Family, Muppet, Wally-Alfie & Family
Diamond Ring - Seth & Family,
Mouse - Sebastian & Family, Oscar Willard
Dog Treats - Gypsy & Family,
Power of the Paw - Platypus

Thank you for making this an amazing birthday for me!

Pleeze Bid High on my Derby Hat in the Auction!

Hazel Lucy
age 12

And the Winner Is....

The winner of THE CAT'S MEOW'S FIRST ANNUAL "BEST CAT MOM" CONTEST is my pal and all-together great angel, RUFUS - In Loving Memory!!!
Concatulations Rufus for a beautiful entry!
We love you!

Hazel Lucy

P.S.
Almost finished thanking everyone individually for all the Rosettes, mom sat at the computer for over 2 hours sending pmails. Mom thinks we're at the 75% mark. You all made my birthday and DDP so special! Thank you!

I Love My Mom!

Why do I love my mom you ask?
For starters, she saved me from the freezing outdoors after I was dumped from a car. No matter how shy and skittish I was for years, she said she loved me and I should just be myself. She never gets upset when I have an accident or scoot or throw up. She tells me I'm the inspiration for everything she does. She has a sense of humor. And she makes me really cool hats. I love mom!
Hazel Lucy

My Derby Hat is in The Auction! *and Aldo is sick*

Mom took my Derby Hat and put it in the THE AUCTION! She didn't ask me, she just did it! I hope it brings a gazillion dollars because it's for a good cause! The only thing that will make me feel better is if it gets lots of really high bids! (you have to scroll way down the auction blog to get to the Derby Hat). You can bid on books and beautiful jewelry and all kinds of Hello Kitty stuff so get on over there!
Bidding ends on all auction items:
Midnight (Eastern Daylight), May 25, 2009

My pal ALDO is sick, even with medicine he is still throwing up. He's licking all the beautiful new fur off his legs. There's a GROUP FOR ALDO where you can read more about his tribulations. The auction is really cool and more items are added daily thanks to the expertise of SAMOA the Boa Queen!

You know the One-Year Annifursay of his Rescue is May 20th and it sure would be great to make it a most special time! Aldo and Noelle (and Tess) had so many Catsters and Dogsters join together in the rescue, you might want to revisit the group that was started when their first mom Laurel went to the Bridge, For the Love of Laurel Group.

Group for Aldo

almost hatless for a cause,
Hazel Lucy

Thursday's Thoughts by Hazel Lucy

It's a stormy Thursday in Purrsville, PA so we'll turn off the computer soon. That's ok, makes for great sleeping weather!

I'm about 1/4 the way through my thank yous for all the Birthday Rosettes and Special Gifts. Mom said we have to do individual personal thanks, it's important and I agree. But it will take a more days to complete. This was my best ever birthday because you were so generous and said such kind things to me! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love!

*******************
Update for my No-Scoot Report!
I've been taking my PROZYME for a whole month and finally, everything is just fine! No accidents, no scooting, and using just one litterbox! Mom is very happy and so are my insides!

scoot-free Hazel Lucy
age 12

New England siblings need a home together!

Need A Home for 2 New England Cats!
Here's the scoop from their family:

"They are 4-year old siblings who have never been apart. They MUST stay together!

Photo-1 of 4-Year Old Connecticut Siblings
Photo-2 of 4-Year Old Connecticut Siblings

My mother is selling her house and can no longer keep these cats. Unfortunately, at the present moment, I cannot take them in, and although it breaks my heart, I have to find either a temporary/foster home for them or a permanent home.

The cats are 4 years old and are brother and sister! They were rescue cats and were the only two who survived their litter. They have NEVER BEEN SEPARATED and I would prefer to keep it that way. As you can see, they love each other very much and take care of each other! Both are up to date with shots and both are neutered/spayed. They love being indoor and outdoor cats so the ideal place for them would be in a place with a nice big yard or even a farm (they're good mousers!)

Li-Li, the girl kitty is the sweetest kitty you could ask for- she is shy and timid at first, but once she warms up to you, she is the ultimate lap cat and LOVES watching TV with you while you pet her! She's a little roly-poly because of her small bone structure but the vet says despite the little pudge she is totally healthy! She's a total "girly" cat. The boy Lucky, is very adventurous and athletic. He has "thumbs" on his front paws! He is more independent than the girl, so he's not a lap cat- BUT he is a very special boy who shows his loyalty in other ways. Both are very well-behaved and do not scratch, bite, hiss, etc. Quite the opposite; they are very loving, which is why it's so hard for me to have to do this!"
Please contact KLANCY if you are interested. If you know a family in the New England area, please spread the word!

***************************

CONCATS to SMUDGE who is Cat of the Week!!!!

REMEMBRANCE DAYS for SIMBA LOVED! Our glompity glomps angel.

Thank you for making my 12th Birthday a Pawsome Day!

My Catness!
Catsterland is just filled with expressive friends! Since I wrote of my vet visit where I was embarrassingly expressed, I've heard from no fewer than 15 cats who went through similar torture! I admire the cats who let their vets have it, all over too, I might say! Talk about a bumm rap! Who know we were such an expressive and dramatic bunch? And I'd like to thank all of you who sent sympathetic pmails, Rosettes and special gifts, that was most kind!
Anyhow, while my vet suggested fiber in the form of Metamucil, mom knew there was a better way. She was reminded of pumpkin and now I'm enjoying a bit of it each day. It's very tasty and good for me too!We are buying Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin.
Happy pumpkin-eater,
Hazel Lucy
p.s. I think Madonna would re-name that song if she knew what it Really meant!!!!!

The Worst 45 Seconds of My Life!

Oewwwww!
Mom put me in the carrier and drove me to see the v-e-t. She and Dr. Reggie were all smiles and then wham, the tech was holding my head and the vet was squeezing my aft quarters! I yelled! I howled! I tried to show my teeth! I yelled for mom to save me but she just scrunched up her face and hid her eyes! All the while Dr. Reggie was talking and smiling! Smiling! While I'm being tortured I tell you!
My derriere was being squeezed beyond belief! All because of a little scootin' across the carpet! Never have I been so humiliated! And mom sat by and let it all happen! Ouch! Help! Help!
So now I'm home and mom is forgiven. I sure hope That never happens to me again! First time. Ever.
Mom's also thrilled with the small bed underpads she uses in the carrier. They keep me dry because you know, I um, go to the bathroom anytime I'm in the carrier.
express yourself!
Hazel Lucy

Express yourself!

Oh noe!
I heard mom call the v-e-t to make an appointment for me. Help!
I've had accidents outside the box and since I have absolutely no behavioral issues, it's a sign. The other sign is not ladylike to speak of, but it's a clear sign on the rug. So, tomorrow morning mom will take me to the vet where I will express myself, so I'm told.
That should clear things up!
expressive Hazel Lucy

My friend ALDO's mom is in training. You can encourage her if you'd like! HERE

Happy Valentine's Day!

Wishing every Catster a wonderful Valentine's Day!
May your hopes and dreams be realized. May you find treats around every corner, hugs and scritches, soft places to sleep all day, sunbeams in which to play!
Buddie and I are in Paris for the weekend!
happy Hazel Lucy

Paris!

Buddie and I will be flying to Paris shortly for Wilson J. Scooter's next bash! Feel free to join us in Paris!

Valentine Wishes

It's a cold blustery day in Purrsville with wind gusts up to 60 mph. Thank Cat no tornadoes here. I purr for all our friends in need everywhere. I hope everycat who wants a special someone - has that someone. I hope that everycat will have love and treats and hugs!
I am grateful for all that I have, and for mom who loves me sooo much. Everyday she tells me how proud she is that I love her!
happy, safe and warm,
Hazel Lucy

Saying goodbye to Scooter and Lexy

Yesterday was a very sad day, we said goodbye to Scooter and Dogster Alexis (Lexy). Scooter was 20 years old and a force to be reckoned with, she had her routine and her ways and ruled the roost. Lexy was 8 years old and a sweet Beagle. She is part of Oly's family.
We have tears in our eyes and an ache in our hearts. Now they soar with the angels.
Hazel Lucy

SNOW!

What makes mom smile?
SNOW!
Big beautiful snowflakes coming down in Purrsville, Pennsylvania! Nothing is sticking to the ground yet, not the streets anyway. Hoping for 3 feet then it will truly be Winter Wonderland!

Addendum:
Thank you SACHA and ALEX FINNEGAN for your very generous offers of snow!

Purring for snow!
happy Hazel Lucy

Victor Gibbs is The Diary Pick of the Day!!!!

Wowza, it's Monday and what do I see?
My Tennessee bro *VICTOR GIBBS* is DDP!!!!! Go Gibbs!
You may recall that my angel furhusband *BUDDIE* sent Gibbs to his family because he needed a home and they needed him. Gibbs has his paws full trying to reign in little *JASON CASH* who is full of mischief and kittenish ways! Gibbs is such a responsible boy and non-partisan too! He will sit between his mom and dad and clean one for a minute, turn, and clean the other! Oh they are very lucky to have Victor Gibbs!
Concats Gibbs!
love,
Hazel Lucy

You are invited to a Wedding!

Today at 4 p.m. Eastern Time Missy and Mr. Silk will be united in Catster Holy Matrimony. Please join the festivities for HERE!

After the wedding, I will enjoy watching the Pittsburgh Steelers win the Super Bowl!!!!
It's a great day in catsterland!
Hazel Lucy
Certified Catster Minister

Margo, R.K.N. has computer woes

Hi Friends!
Margo, R.K.N. will be offline for a few days while the computer is being fixed. Also, would you send some purrs for her mom, she's having tests.

The snow here is on the ground but not on the roads. The sun is shining and it's cold but not windy. I'm getting ready to watch the big game this weekend!
hugs for all,
Hazel Lucy

Stay inside, Stay warm, Drink Hot Cocoa!

I hope everycat is warm and safe during the storms that are going on in many parts of this land. We're ok here in Purrsville, some snow last night but the roads seem clear. Probably will freeze over tonight. We still have electricity, but some of our Catsterpals do not.

Don't forgt that ALDO 's mom is taking part in the Philadelphia 3-Day Walk (to find a cure). You can be part of this pawsome effort too!

And while you're all iced in from the storm, take the Survey About Catster that a very fine graduate student is using for her case study.

Waving right back at Orion!

Today is special for me!

Whoa, I saw a new star, and some beautiful Rosettes,and sweet pmails - and thought, "What's going on?" Gosh, me, a diary pick, you know this has happened only a handful of times, what a great feeling!!!
So, I figure it's a great time to ask you to pmail me if you have not sent photos of you with your blankets or hats. We're working on the Tranquility pages and would love to add your photos!
I'd better go tell my handsome furhusband Buddie, but I'm sure he already knows! If you'd like to help celebrate today with me go HERE!
happy happy
Hazel Lucy

Aldo's New Fur and A Walk for the Cure

OMC!
Have you taken a look at ALDO lately?
Look at how beautifully his fur has grown! Before he was, well, about 60% furless! Now he has beautiful soft fur, a sure sign of the love and care his mom gives him. You'll remember that he was part of the rescue of Aldo and Noelle last May. Hundreds of people from all over the globe supported the rescue effort. (Still no sign of Tess, we still believe a workman took her because of her beauty.)

Now Aldo's mom is taking part in the Philadelphia 3-Day Walk (to find a cure) to help hundreds and thousands of others. You can be part of this pawsome effort too!
Read about it HERE.
Sincerely,
Hazel Lucy

Take the Survey about Catsterland!

A Catster mom is a graduate student at Penn State, working on a research project that explores sense of community in online communities. She is using Catster as her case study and has created an online survey, and would love for you all to take it.
Click Here to Take the Survey About Catster. It should only take a few minutes to complete. You must be between the ages of 18 and 65 to participate.

Lots of higher education going on here!
many thanks,
Hazel Lucy

New photos are on the Tranquility Page!

Mom's worked over 20 hours in the last several days and she is still not finished. Many new photos are up, still have more to go but please take a look and see if there are any mistakes! Click the photos to get to your Catster pages to check the links. Mom cannot proof her own work!
Tranquility Pages
Thanking you all,
Hazel Lucy

I met Sarah!

I was nervously looking for SARAH at the shrimp bar, hosted by WILSON J SCOOTER and BACI . BUDDIE spotted her and we ambled over to introduce ourselves. I tell you, I was worried about what she would think. Would Sarah like me? Buddie was cool and calm and held my paw, he's only the finest furhusband a gal could want! Sarah is even more lovely than BEAR had said. And she looked absolutely breathtaking in Bear's scarf! We were both nervous at first but in a moment we were chatting like lifelong friends! How wonderful to meet her and all the othercats I'd heard about but had never met! What a great party!
I had 2 massages yesterday while Buddie explored Whine Country! I'm going to have breakfast with Sarah so we can continue our discussions about scarves and blankets and such.
see you at the Breakfast bar,
Hazel Lucy

New Places, New Faces!

Air Scooter One landed gently in Whine Country today, after a short flight over all the soft rolling hills to see the vineyards. We're about to join the festivities, which for me means meeting newcats and eating! OMC! Buddie, did you know that we're going to meet the lovely SARAH? Straighten your tie and wash your paws! Sarah is the sister of dear BEAR who spent time on the get well purr list. He has a special place in my heart along with all the angels. I hope Sarah likes me, Buddie, does this scarf make me look phat??
Working up an appetite,
nervous furwife,
Hazel Lucy

Snow in Purrsville and I'm going to Whine Country!

It's really SNOWING in Purrsville! It's almost a whiteout! People are smiling and shoveling and there is accumulation!!!! Just in time because mom and I adore winter!

WILSON J SCOOTER and BACI are throwing a big party for the inauguration. We're headed to Whine Country in the beautiful and warm Napa Valley! BUDDIE and I are happy to have another special time together, those weeks in Hawaii did wonders for us!
I'm all packed and waiting for the Scooter Limo to drive me to the airport. I'll board Air Scooter One with SAUSAGE and othercats from the tri-state area. We'll fly to Whine Country! I packed my brochure so Sausage is lending me his. Can you believe the feasts that await us??? I'm working up an appetite, who am I kidding, I always have an appetite! Good thing Wilson J Scooter knows that for most of us, food is everything happy!
I'm going to check out the guest houses and sign up for 3 massages a day! Buddie is going to invite some other malecats to form a barbershop quartet, but you all know the sad fact about his singing! Still, we're going to have fun and meet lots of folks and make new friends, and eat and drink and be merry!
I hope the limo doesn't get stuck in the snow!!!
happy Hazel Lucy

Need Your Tranquility Blanket Photos!

Hi every wonderful Catster!
Mom's doing a ginormous update on the Tranquility Pages. If you have not yet sent photos of you with your blankets, hats, collars and scarves, send me a pmail so I can give you my email address!
So far mom's put in 15 hours and is nowhere near finished. Part of the process is linking the photos to your Catster pages!
Check out page 3 for the new format!
Hurry up mom!

Stay warm and dry!
hugs,
Hazel Lucy

Blizzard in Purrsville!

Finally! SNOW!
The first snowfall of the new year in Purrsville is here! The snowflakes are ginormous and blowing sideways. I hope it lasts! Ooops, now it's gone! Where is my snowstorm? Why can't the weather make up its mind!
Oh well, I'll help mom choose colors for Valentine trankie blankies, that will keep us busy!
Bring on the snow!
Hazel Lucy

I've Been Tagged!

I've been tagged by SHAI MING (Sunshine) and MAX so here goes.
1. I spend most of my day near mom because she needs constant supervision or else she won't be thinking of me 24/7.
2. I like cold weather best, it's great for snuggling!
3. Like my handsome angel mangoman furhusband BUDDIE says, "Married furlove is the best furlove!" There are now several more Certified Catster Ministers for your nuptials!!!!
4. I tend to be serious, and we're working on the Fun part more!
5. I think NEWMAN and CASH are related, though I don't know what they call fruit cups and grapes in Tennessee!
6. I think the Catster Marketplace is the only mall in the world just for us!
7. I appreciate being appreciated HERE!!!!

My page background

I really really like my page just as it is right now. Cats tell me it makes them feel all warm and toasty. That's just what I was going for! So now that I like the page, mom is already thinking about Valentine's Day backgrounds! Why does everything have to change? I'm about to wax philosophical. I guess that's better than waxing my body!!!

Don't forget, if you are one of the many many talented artisans and crafters, please join the Catster Marketplace and the Dogster Marketplace where you can find folks looking to spend real money for your creations. With 183,000 cats and almost 460,000 dogs, there is room for everyone! We support and promote one another!

off to ponder the wonders of the universe,
Hazel Lucy

Platypus went to Heaven

PLATYPUS would like wings. Please contact her for the photos. Thank You.
My heart is aching as we bid our good friend in France adieu.
Au revoir mon ami PLATYPUS. She fell asleep in her mom's arms and went right up into heaven. Sending purrs of comfort to her amazing mom.
so long dear girl,
Hazel Lucy

Starting off by Giving Thanks!

Oh my, I'll be all caught up! A new year, a clean slate, a world of possibilities! I am so thankful for friends new and old. Some of you I've know for years! What a place is this catsterland! Deep friendships, playful acquaintances, all manner of fun and serious goings on! Weddings galore!
Mom's still working on my snail mail Christmas List, so please bear with me!

Thank You!
Stars ** Gimme, Titch, Sir Alfie, Micheal, Amelia, Shelby, Muppet, Midnight, Hambone, Prissy, Arnold P.
Diamonds ** Sally Maria, Felix Mendelssohn, Onyx Bug-Slayer, Sunny, Boomer, Isis, Orca the Killer Kitten, Phoebe, Cherry Berry, Phanto, Bruce, Smudge, Sparkle, Anne, Margo, Midnight, Shep McCormick, Mouse, Piewackit
Hearts ** Minxy, KiKi, Belle, Emily Felicity, Hamlet, Waverly, Ozzy, Lucy, Scooter, Rocky Ann, Nikko, Missy, Shaylee, Anonymouse!
Roses ** Fido, Lexi, Max, Platypus, Ginny, Jeter Harris
Snowmen ** Toulouse, Madison, Tyson, Kailey, Oliver, Sunflower, Chelsea Louise, Chai Latte, Rufus, KC Sunshine, Freddie H. Mac, Tweak, Petey Rose, Felix Mendelssohn, Oly, Daisy, Murray, Alexis Tippy, KC, Cindy, Buggy, Mr Skins, Imhotep, Lewis, Tessa, Pooter's, Lancelot, Romeo, Ethan, Buster, Alex, Belle, Ginny, Tabitha, Maus, T C an angel
Snowflake ** Oscar J. Cat, Chester, Rocky Ann, Micheal, Gimme, Samoa, Diego, Reena, Nikko, Scrappy, Cleopatra Grace, Phanto, Cole, Paige, Squeakers, Toulouse, Oliver, Sparkle, Sushi, Icebox, Alex Finnegan, Daisy
Paw ** Einstein
Dreidel ** Luci
Blue Ribbon ** Waverly
Pink Ribbon ** Prissy
Shrimp ** Mercedes, Boomer
Gingerbread Man ** Samson, Tommy, Biscotti, Isis, Caney Cat, Lexi, Ginny, Tang, Smudge, Margo R.K.N., KC Sunshine, Cleopatra, Oscar G'Kar, Samson
Flower Vase ** Margo R.K.N.
Trophy ** Boomer, Klemy Q-Tip,
Hot Chocolate ** Tweak, Ash Grimalkins, Giggles, Little Girl, Hambone,
Christmas Tree ** Sneakers, Reena, Athena, Merlin, Scrappy, Diego, Phanto, Midnight, Wally always loved, Isis, Piper Serendipity,
Christmas Wreath ** Mollie, Toffy, Sunny, Mercedes, Alfie, Midnight, Muppet, Eli, Anne, Lola
Mistletoe ** Daisy, Tweak, Lancelot, Phanto,
Sled ** Loki
Fireplace ** Rcee, Monkey Boy, Sally Maria, Irwin, Allie, Keisha
Mousie ** Rufus (angel)
Party Hat ** Cow!Cat
Big Snowman ** Snowie, Scrappy
New Year Countdown ** Midnight, Kira, Muppet, Freddie H. Mac,
Snowball Fight ** Anonymouse!
Cupcake ** Allie

I was lucky enough to earn the 250 zealies playing the Dog Breed game. I was horrid at the Cat Breed Game! Go figure!

Buddie and I are returning to the mainland after several wonderful weeks in Hawaii. I am well-rested and tranquil!!!
happy for the new year,
Hazel Lucy

Margo and Mikey will Marry New Year's Day!!!!

Today is the wedding of MARGO, R.K.N. and MIKEY!
You are all invited to help celebrate their joining together in wedded bliss *HERE*
The ceremony begins:
6:30pm Eastern Time
5:30pm Central Time
4:30pm Mountain Time
3:30pm Pacific time

All are welcome!
Hazel Lucy
Catster Minister

The Get Well Purr List is 2 years old!

Today is the 2nd Anniversary of the Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread. There are many sick cats in our midst, and I need your help to keep the list updated. If you know of a sick Catster please post in the thread and I'll pick it up there. If you have updates on anycat please let me know. Your treats, pawmails, rosettes and gifts mean so much to their families. The important thing is that they realize they are not alone, somecat is thinking about them and sending purrs and prayers. When you visit their pages and leave a rosette or pmail, it gives them hope and comfort, is there any better gift?
Please help me celebrate by visiting their pages.

Buddie and I will return to the mainland after the New Year begins! We've had a wonderful time, and was my handsome furhusband ever surprised to see me scramble up those rocky cliffs! Nothing better than backpacking with the one I love!
see you soon,
happy furwife
Hazel Lucy

Christmas in Hawaii with my furhusband!

Our little grass hut has been home for several weeks now and will be for a few more days. Buddie and I have flown over active volcanoes, relaxed on the sandy shores, feasted on all the local flavors, visited the coffee plantations. The USS Arizona Memorial touched us deeply; we wish our troops, on land, sea, and in the air, the best holiday, with safety and security, and hope they all come home soon. How lucky I am to spend this time with my family!
Buddie and I wish you all a safe, treat-filled season of joy!
happiest furwife,
Hazel Lucy

Happy Chanukah!

Today is the first day of Chanukah!
I wish all my Jewish friends a Happy Chunakah!
Especially WINNIE , who started the pawsome Catster Marketplace. I like Winnie a lot because she is super-smart and always has a cool head.
And to little NEWMAN , who lit one the middle candle on the Menorah this morning, without burning down the room!
May the day bring great Peace, Joy, good food, and friendship!
Shalom,
Hazel Lucy

I'm a Diary Pick!!!!

WOWEE!! I've been in catsterland nigh almost 4-1/2 years, and I can count the number of times I've been a diary pick. (I think it's fewer than 10 times). And here I am today! Wait until I tell Buddie! He's out walking along this beautiful Hawaiian beach. I prefer to stay snuggled in our little grass getaway hut. I bet he's looking for beach glass, you know we decided that collecting it would be fun! We're going to collect beach glass from all over the world! We'll stop at the Catster Marketplace later today and do a bit of shopping! Buddie gave me a gift card and it has so many zeros on it, well, I can get something from all the different talented artisans! This will be fun! Everything you could ever want or need is featured! It's our very own Catster Yellowbook!!!!

Another special Catster anniversay! December 26th will be the 2nd Anniversary of the Get Well Purr List, the Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread. I can't believe it's been 2 years!
Have a great day to everycat!
happy in Hawaii,
Hazel Lucy
furwife of handsome mangoman Buddie

What a pawsome Wedding today!

Today I conducted the ceremony to unite Fido and Allie in wedded furlove!
FIDO so handsome in his tux, was beaming at his bride-to-be, ALLIE. She was absolutely beautificous in her veil. Lovely, delicate, the essence of all feline feminine virtues, this veil was custom-made by Boogers' wife EVE and had ooohs and aaahs coming from the guests! Fido is a lucky man and he knows it!
Even though Allie stumbled a bit on the way to the gazebo, she held up well considering that this was the most important day of her lives!
BUDDIE flew me in to conduct the ceremony and now we're headed back to Hawaii, just can't get enough of our little grass hut! Angel PICASSO attended too. His wings are just pawsome! SAMOA was dazzling in her HL creation, PHOEBE was turning heads in her gold maid of honor dress, and everycat was dressed to the max!
The food, music, and party favors were lavish! Did I say food? Anything and everything was there!
NEWMAN and PORKCHOP made mischief, running around, running into things, running on top of the cake table, pulling on tuxedos, and in general running amok! A great time was had by all!!!!

Mom started work on my Christmas List today. Then she went to the post office and came home with 13 cards for me! She's clearing bookshelves to make space fthem. There are piles of cards all over the living room floor. I love it, I can run through the living room and make all the piles into one ginormous pile!

Happy Day!
Hazel Lucy

The Catster Marketplace is open!

Update! We have the 500 members to make the Catster Marketplace a sensation!!!

THE CATSTER MARKETPLACE is here for your shopping pleasure!
So many wonderful crafters, and more added each day! If you have a site we'll link to it! Think of the pawsome possibilities! And we all give back in big ways to help critters.
Thanks to Winnie who went to head honcho Ted and then started the marketplace! Hooray for Winnie, one real smart cat! Late last night (well, late on the East Coast) we watched as the number of members in the group climbed towards 500. It was like waiting for the ball to drop in Times Square for the New Year! And then Skeezix the Cat wrote about it in his blog, The Cat's Meow. Imagine that, catsterland has its own mall !!!!

happy HL

Thank yous!

Now that my handsome mangoman furhusband Buddie is bringing me home, I'm trying to catch up on thank yous for Stars, Diamonds, Rosettes and Gifts. Unfortunately I am hopeless at this point. Please know that over the last several weeks I have read and cherished each one from you, and am deeply touched. I vow to keep up with them in the New Year. All I can do is beg forgiveness.
Buddie is taking me to task over this. If I miss anycat, please know it is not intentional. I am grateful for your friendship and caring. I love catsterland and each of you is part of that love.
Hazel Lucy

Brand New! Our Own Catster Marketplace!!!

Well it's about time is all I can say!
While sunning myself with my wonderfully attentive mangoman furhusband Buddie here in Hawaii, I read in the Hawaii News that there is a brand new place to shop!
It's called THE CATSTER MARKETPLACE!

I am quoting from Winnie's diary here:
"HQ said we could have a group to do this. And they even said if we can get over 500 members they will publicize the group for us.
SO OOOO now it is in our paws....here is what we need to do

1) If you make stuff, join the group and start a thread about your products, and add a picture about your site

2) if you shop, join the group and shop away (even if you don't shop please join the group so we can grow big and strong please)"

Buddie and I are going to call all of our pals and tell them this fantastic news!
happy Hazel Lucy

Thank you for the Pawsome Party!

The evening of Monday, December 8th, 2008, my handsome mangoman furhusband Buddie, flew me to a special room in catsterland. It was a surprise party for moi! Now I ask you, how can 300 cats keep a secret -- from me???? And yet they did. The group calls itself The Hazel Lucy Appreciation Society. The party was HERE.
Stunned, yes! So many cats stopped in to say hello to me, well, it was overwhelming! All your good wishes and beautiful thoughts, the kimis on the pages, I am still joyful!!! What a boost! I can't thank you all enough! I read every entry in every thread, read all the messages and looked at the wonderful photo stroll. My heart is overflowing. Mom is so silly, she thought a kimi was a kind of sushi!!!
Again, my sincere and humble thanks, I know it must have been hard work to keep a secret for so many days!
I don't know how cats were invited, but the party is still going on so feel free to join in!
happy once again,
Hazel Lucy

BWAB

BWAB = Black and White Ankle Biters!
I received this notification:
Ok this is a first. The BWAB of the week is
Hazel Lucy
There were no second and third places. All votes went to her.
Concatulations !

Thank you!

Saying goodbye to Picasso

Sadly, PICASSO - Age 2 - crossed the bridge Monday afternoon. Picasso had been on the get well purr list since he was 6 months old. Goodbye, sweet little guy, you captured the hearts of many, especially mine.
sad tears,
Hazel Lucy

about those cards

I was sunning myself on the warm beaches in beautiful Hawaii with my handsome mangoman furhusband Buddie, when I received a terrifying cat-o-gram from mom. Here is what the cat-o-gram said:
"Am unable to make the 300 Christmas cards you requested. Love, mom."
Let me tell you, I almost spilled my Tangerine Fizz drink!
She said cats will understand, she's making HL blankets and shelter blankets as fast as possible. Some folks send to their Christmas List for Valentines Day. So this is how I'll get her to make the cards for me. About 50 cards a week starting in February. What do You think?
tanning,
Hazel Lucy

My Stress-Free Vacation!

Sweet MUPPET is going home today, her surgery was successful!
Hooray! Proud to be a Muppethead!

Ooooh, I am one lucky furwife, I tell you!
My handsome mangoman BUDDIE has me collecting sea shells and relaxing here in beautiful Hawaii. He saw my great distress and swooped down to make me feel wonderful again! I even wore a grass skirt, but I danced too near the roasting food pit and..., well let's just say things got a little hot!!! Hawaii is the purrfect place for a getaway - warm sun, volcanoes, amazing food, big waves, great shopping!

On another note, please remember that Ribbon, while pretty, can kill us if we eat it because it will wrap around the colon. So once you open your gifts, either throw the ribbon out or put it where cats can't get to it. Be safe!

dancing in Hawaii,
Hazel Lucy

Popcorn Paws

My paws smell a little bit like Popcorn. There is something called "popcorn paws" or for dogs, "frito paws." Who knew!

Remembering my friend Wally

Today is the One-year Bridge Anniversary of WALLY. We became friends two years ago, shortly after he came to catsterland. Wally always had a big heart for others, and many have received his kind words of support and encouragement these past two years. He is one of the most giving cats I know. Tonight I am thinking of him and hoping his mom is not too sad. If you read his diary, Wally did send his mom a message a few nights ago. Thanks dear friend, for your heart of gold, good looks, and humor. I love you very much.
always,
Hazel Lucy

p.s. Won't you consider joining the Hurricane Pets Rescue Catster Group. ASHLYE DELICIOUS DAZZLE who is part of the rescue organization was instrumental in the search for Aldo and Tess.

Happy Thanksgiving Catsters!

Turkey day is here! Can't wait!
The other day mom cooked pot roast and it was great! She left the room for a minute and when she came back my face was in the plate! Yummm! Mom giggled, she has never seen me do this, not in 10 years!
Today mom stood up and in a flash I was eating her apple pie. She's not sure if I ate crust or the crumbs on top or tasted the cooked apples, but it was nummy num yummy!
Happy Thanksgiving to all!

My Darling Furhusband Buddie

How I miss my handsome Mangoman! We used to romp in fields, take walks in parks, and sit paw in paw quietly enjoying one another's company. Now Buddie flies down from heaven to visit me and to visit his family who still ache for him and his beautiful sister Elise McKenna. You may remember that Buddie crossed the bridge on November 25th, 2007 and McKenna followed just two short days later. Life has not been the same for any of us.
I love my Buddie for ever and always,
Hazel Lucy

*********************

Giving Thanks!

WOWZA!
What an amazing day!
First, thanks to all who are writing and sending Rosettes about me being on the Catster home page. It's very humbling to think that my name is featured. It's an honor to be next to my idol, T C (an angel always). I can't take credit for anything though, except that mom is pretty good on the phone and looking things up online. I am thankful to everycat who responds to calls for help. Catsterland provided the purrfect place to let the good in all of us come to light. It's a natural thing for a Catster to want to help in a crisis, large or small. I mean, we even help Dogsters! How many Dogsters can say they help Catsters? Not too many I suspect. Anyhow, if the spotlight helps promote rescues, that's the best reward!

NOELLE has a great life in the high altitude of Albuquerque. ALDO has found that the best place to relax is on his mom's tummy while watching tv! Tess remains in our purrs that she is well-cared for and loved. Leads still come in about her. Never give up.

MUPPET is feeling the love of many. There are dozens more situations of all kinds, where help is given behind the scenes. So many here do so much to help the world, starting right here in catsterland.

And for something else close to my heart, please think about visiting the Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread and leaving some purrs for our sick friends. It really helps them if you leave a note, treat, or Rosette on their pages. They need encouragement (and advice too sometimes). It's one of the simplest ways to make a big difference!

The other group close to my heart is called, We Love the Snuggles Project. Catsters and Dogsters dedicated to giving animals in shelters a soft place to sleep. We crochet, knit, fold, and sew Snuggle blankets for cats and dogs who are waiting for someone to give them a good furever home. Those who can't make the blankets collect towels, bath mats, blankets, etc. and give them to shelters. There are many ways to help! Most of us have too many towels, right!

Here's to another day of helping out wherever we can!
giving thanks,
Hazel Lucy

Muppet Needs Your Purrs!

Muppet was rescued from horrific living conditions and has a loving home now but she is not at all healthy. Please stop by MUPPET's page and read her story. I just know it will have a happy ending!

love,
Hazel Lucy

My Annual Checkup!

Today was the day mom took me to see Dr. Reggie for my annual wellness checkup. That's a nice name for what he did to me. Now you know that when I am put in the carrier I go to the bathroom, on the way to the vet, and on the way home too. (Mom uses those bed pads in the carrier so that I'm not dripping wet. They work much better than a towel or newspaper.) First I was weighed, and I'm proud to say that I am exactly 15 Pounds! Then that white stick was stuck, well you know where. Then I was whisked to another room and the vampires took my blood! But I was back in about 20 seconds! That's for the Fructosamine test, to see how well I'm doing on insulin. (Those results will be back in a day or two but we know I'm fine.) Mom said I've been scratching at my ears so Dr. Reggie poked and looked, and lo and behold I have excessive wax buildup and minor inflammation, probably a slight allergy. Duh, mom just bought a vacuum cleaner after not having one for 3 months! The dust bunnies were bigger than me! I'm allergic to giant dust bunnies! Mom has to put drops in my ears for a week. But all my parts are working just fine, my fur is super downy soft, my eyes are bright, and I'm a contented kitty. So, after $172 I was pronounced in very good health! Whew, no more of that for another year! Speaking of parts, mom can't eat fruit anymore after reading about NEWMAN and his grapes!
That's my report,
Hazel Lucy

Celebrating 10 Years with Mom!!!

I've been with my mom for TEN years!
After I was unceremoniously tossed from a car I wandered up to one house. I was told to keep moving. I saw a lady get out of her car carrying bags (groceries). I was at her heels in no time. The pretty lady looked down at me and thought "Oh my, I guess I'll have to help it and that means adopt it." She walked around the house and I stayed by her side the whole time. I couldn't meow, but an "eek" came from my throat. She called me "eeker".

Maxwell Thomas was already part of the family so she couldn't bring me in because she was sure I was very sick. I had not one ounce of fat on me, I was scraggly and skinny and my fur was very dull, what there was of it. You could see the outline of my bones. She quick-like ran upstairs and brought down milk, water and food and I dove right in! Then she brought down a cardboard box with towels in it. By then the food was gone and I hopped right into that box, and got all warm and comfy.

When she came out early the next morning I was still in the box. She was wearing big heavy neoprene gloves. She grabbed me and put me in a carrier and off we went to the cat clinic. There I was checked over and under and inside too (ouch). It was determined that I was probably about a year old, and a female. The vet gave her the bad news that I was a very sick cat. He suggested putting me to sleep. I didn't understand that since I'd just had the best night of sleep in a long time. The lady said no way. Just then, Maxwell's foster dad walked in. (He was a board member of Forgotten Felines and Fidos near Allentown where we used to live.) Although he had 27 cats in his home, he said he would keep me isolated for a month and help me get well. His porch had just been enclosed and it was heated and it was my home for almost a month. Every day mom went over there and used Reiki and essential oils on me. In two weeks she pronounced me better. Two weeks later we went back to the vet and he said "What did you do, it looks like she's never been sick?" That's when I came to live with mom and dad. Of course we still had to get rid of the THREE kinds of worms I had, but then it was clear sailing. My fur grew thick and shiny and I had all the food I wanted.

Mom was lucky, I had purrfect manners. When she brought me home for the first time, I walked up to the scratching post and used it. I never scratched on furniture or rugs or anything but the post. I never had accidents outside of the litter box. Maxwell was the same way. Our folks were lucky that way.

I wouldn't let anyone near me, I was skittish and shy and fearful. Everyday mom sat across the room from me and talked in a sweet soft voice. Each week I came closer until I was sitting next to her! It took years for me to make eye contact and mom still remembers the first time I looked her in the eye; the first time I put my paw on her arm, the first time I slept on the bed, you get the picture. I also don't know how to knead. And it was about 4 years before I purred. It was about 6 years before I meowed a real meow. Lots of patience and love and no stress was the key. I learned to trust. I learned there are good and kind and caring people in this world. I even like mom's friends! Now I am a very affectionate and loving and vocal girl! And so, I celebrate 10 years of unconditional love with my mom!
I Love you mom!
happy Hazel Lucy

P.S. It is an honor to have one of the Project Angel Princess Cats (Catsy's Basement Cats) named for me! Thank you cousin Catsy !

Noelle is in the Movies!

Go see NOELLE IN THE MOVIES!
Update:
I'm told the Albuquerque newspeople were interested only in the Dogster part of the story because, afterall, it was a dog park! Ok, we know it was hundreds of Catsters pulling together and pooling resources for the rescue, maybe it's too early for mom to be sounding off! Thanks to Rascal for the real scoop and to PorkChop and Sir Alfie Kneads a Lot for the support!

It was very nice of the newswoman to mention at the tail(!) end of the piece that Catster.com is also a site! Not that anycat is looking for kudos, but now I understand about creating a news story. And we know that bringing attention to Dogster might also be good for Catster. (perish the thought). Slobbering dogs, smelly, stinky dogs. (Sure hope the President-elect wises up and adopts some cats.) Just the thought of all those dogs running around playing is too much for me, I need a nap.

Let's get a crew to interview ALDO who flew from Tampa to Baltimore as part of this rescue! (It is wonderful to see Noelle running happily in the dog park!)
HL

p.s. Stop by and check the Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread, the List is on Page One. Many cats need your purrs and notes to encourage them. Each purr, note, treat, Rosette, etc. is greatly appreciated by sick Catsters and their families.

Sunday Thankyous!

I need to follow in Margo R.K.N.'s wise pawsteps and do Friday Tankees!
Thanks to everycat who stopped by to give me treats too!
I still have pmail to catch up on, and thanking you in advance for your patience. If you didn't hear back from me, please write again.

Stars: Prissy, Scrappy, Ivan, Ginger
Diamonds: Muppet, K.C., Ash Grimalkins
Blue Collars: Oakie, Mountain Dew, Sadie, Capt. Jack, Scrappy, Sir Sonny Bono, Rizza, Gimme
Butterfly: Bruce the Boss
Trick or Treat: Jordan
Skeleton: Hambone
Big Flower: Teebo & Callie
Big Leaf: Tweak, Reena
Scary Flashing Pumpkin: Scarlett, Alexis, Atlas
Bats: Tarcin, Little Bit, Rufus
Ghosts: Tigress, Oly, Vanessa, PorkChop, Alfie & Teddy, Ginny, Klemy Q-Tip, Diego
Pumpkins: Kittanna, Onyx-Bug Slayer, Murray, Shelby, Gordy, Toulouse, Lewis, Sunny, Ruben, Jake, Eli, Seven, Skinner, Boudin & Tigger, Mercedes (Mercy), Gimme
Paw: Rebel, Chelsea Louise
Candy Corn: Scooter, Alex Finnegan, Skinner, Sparkle, Mercedes (Mercy), Smudge
Black Hats: Aryeh, Reena, Fiesta Cat, Beenie, Waffles, Muffin, Ripley
Black Cat: Eve(Mrs. Booga Bear), Amelia, Callista, Biscotti, Ethan, Klemy Q-Tip, Phanto, Cole, Tigger
Baseballs: Chai Latte, Mouse
Roses: Smudge, Baby-G, Lexi, Chandler Ray, Isis, Mikey, Fire, Albie, Arnold P., Biscotti, Beenie, Anonymouse!
Cool Shades: Edgar, Ginney "Dangerous Beans", Mouse, Alfie & Teddy
Hearts: Margo R.K.N.(2 times), Wally & Family, YooHoo, Oliver, Zoey
Blue Ribbons: Tweak, Lily
Acorns: Kiki, Tessa, Dewey, Oly, Jordan, Hannah, Simba, Biscotti
Shrimpies: Chelsea Louise, Mercedes (Mercy), Biscotti, Punky

Whew, thatsalottatyping!

****
Mom's computer is doing well except for the program (Macromedia Dreamweaver) not working that she uses for the website. If anyone has advice on another program please pmail me!
love to all,
Hazel Lucy

Margo's Silly Tag Game!

Margo R.K.N. and Allie tagged me!

1. How mene toes duz yew hab?
Just the right number of toes!

2. Is yew marreed?
YES, mine was the FIRST Catster Wedding, all the way back in 2005 to handsome Buddie.

3. Duz yew hab short, medium, or long hairs?
Some are medium, some are short, a few are long!

4. Duz yew likes tew dress up?
I will wear the hats and collars mom crochets, but don't try to put me into clothing!

5, Hoo gots da stinkeeeest gas in yore house???
Hazel Lucy only rarely causes an odor that is not sweet!

6. How mene toys duz yew hab?
I have a few toys but only play with them once in a while to surprise mom. But I do get to test and approve all the blankets and hats that mom makes!

7. Is yore tale straight, kinked, curly, fat, thin, or jus rite?
My tail is purrfect!

8. Hab yew eber killed a reel mousie??
I am certain that when wandering outside before I met mom, that I was a very good mouser!

9. Is yew beeyooteeful, hansum, or uglee??
My nickname is "The Beautiful Miss Hazel Lucy of Catster Fame"
(really though, I'm meek)

10. Is yew da King ob da house, Kween ob da house, or da Serbint????
I rule the roost!

16 Hours and Counting!

I had to yell at mom to get away from the computer and eat something. Yesterday she worked over 10 hours with the new hard drive, copying things over and troubleshooting. (Hey, I shoot trouble on the spot!) The only thing she ate yesterday was a little bitty instant oatmeal serving. How can anycat work with computers on such measly calories?
So now we are at hour number 16 of the computer fix, and I made her go out and get a really good meal. Mom specializes in takeout! Anyhow, the printer is now working (after a helpful Live Chat), we fixed the Firefox problem, and only one thing remains but that can wait another day. Then there were all the personalized settings for every program. And of course, mom forgot to export the Firefox Bookmarks!!! Drats!
So, in a few minutes mom is going to watch mindless tv with me and give me hugs and scritches and I'll purr my happiness! I was very upset that she spent so many consecutive hours on that machine. But I realize she needs it to communicate with all my catsterpals!

Thanks so much to all who have concatulated me for being a diary pick! I promise that tomorrow mom will say our thank yous!
happy to have my mom all to myself,
Hazel Lucy

Holy Catnip!

Wowee!
I'm a Daily Diary Pick! I know because Hondo said so! Thanks, Hondo!
This is probably the 2nd or 3rd time since I joined Catster over 4 years ago! Thanks, Diary Gal!!!!
Luckily, the computer is back and running just in time!
And a big CONCATS to Oliver who is The Diary Pick for Today!
happy happy Hazel Lucy

New Hard Drive in the Computer!

Finally!
The computer is home and working after 3 days in the shop!
All it needed was a need hard drive. That coupled with FIOS means a really fast computer! Of course mom didn't know that her most necessary programs had to be re-installed and some are not working properly. Like Dreamweaver for the Tranquility Blankets pages. (we can use it off the old drive). Like Photoshop Elements for which we have no disk. And now Firefox isn't working at all. Still, it's good to be back!
Happy again,
Hazel Lucy

I'll be offline Monday and Tuesday!

I'll be offline Monday and Tuesday while mom finds out if this computer is worth saving! Taking the computer to Micro Center where a full diagnostic workup will be done.

Back soon,
Hazel Lucy

Catsy's Cat-Capturing!!!

Look everycat!
Angel CATSY has been helping her mom capture kittens and cats. We've been reading about her mom's efforts to trap the kittens. Catsy's mom and dad now have several kittens and an adult cat safely stowed in their basement. The cats are enjoying lots of food, fresh water, and heated beds. They will be fixed and tested for the dread diseases. I am very proud of my cousin Catsy for guiding her mom in this endeavor. It's a way of helping her mom deal with Catsy's becoming an angel.

Many of our Catster friends save cats by trapping them and then finding a no-kill shelter and good homes. It is a monumental task, but everyone who does this saves lives and spreads love throughout the land.
love,
Hazel Lucy
****

Computer Woes

Well, I guess it's time for a checkup on the computer. It is almost 6 years old. Mom says it has become agonizingly slow and the most obvious need is a hard drive. The hard drive talks a lot! It grinds and grinds. Even with DSL and added RAM, the system is very slow and hangs up a lot. So mom will take it in for a diagnostic check on Monday. We'll probably be offline for at least two days. I'm worried that mom will go into withdrawal. No internet? No Catster? How will she survive?
Ever watchful of mom,
Hazel Lucy

Word Series Champs!

Horns honking, people yelling, fireworks exploding!
What does it mean????
The Phillies are the World Series Champions!
Hootin' and Hollerin' all night!

Our friend JAZZI crossed the Rainbow Bridge....

JAZZI crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
There is a memorial thread for her, Memorial and Support Thread for Jazzi

From Jazzi:
"Dearest Friends....

The sun shines so brightly from the rainbow bridge. I was swept from my mommy' s loving arms and tear stained checks, by so many angels at 4:00pm. I now feel the warmth of the sun and the colors of the rainbow............

Please help my mommy, she is so lost....I had to go............she did all she could. I stayed in the O2 tank all day with lots of meds while mommy and daddy worked. They wouldn't let mommmy be with me. Then mommy and daddy and granny and papa came.....Mommy held me, touched me, thank me for being her heart...........and then I feel every so gently so sleep....

We are at a loss for words and mommy says she is sick....please let her know she did the right thing, as I could no longer breathe....it was time to spread my wings and fly..............

I love you all, Jazzi "

Light a Candle for Jazzi

Jazzi is at the Emergency Vet

Just received this:

JAZZI has been at the ER since 3:15am in an Oxygen tank. Her breathing was was labored and she was not well. The vet took x-rays and her lungs are filled with fluid. She either has a severe infection or she is dying. Not sure if she's coming home....

Purrs for Jazzi,
Hazel Lucy

Caring for Blind Cats

This week, 2 of our friends, JAZZI (age 19), and now Bear (Age 17) have become blind. We're not sure if Bear's blindness is permanent. Sudden blindness is a shock for the cats, as well as their families. How to cope?
Here are 3 resources to get started:

Caring for Blind Cats

Caring for a Blind Cat

Caring for Your Blind Cat

Please purr for Jazzi and Bear and their loving families.
If you have any advice to share, please pmail them.
thanks,
Hazel Lucy

Update on Jazzi

It was little Biscuit's idea. She pmailed me with the link for Blind Cat Rescue & Sanctuary. I didn't think of it even though mom's sent blankets to them. So mom dialed JAZZI's home and left the information. The woman at Blind Cat Rescue will help mom with any questions about what to do. Jazzi's mom sent us an email, here is part of it:

"Jazzi is very calm....very calm....almost non-responsive....today, she has turned her heard to my voice, found her box, and eaten some, she crouches when she waks, she only falls when she tries to get on the bed and off....she has kitty stairs...we have bought toddler bars of mush and put all around our bed and only left the portion open with her staris, she is doing better. We have her in our room only...her special closet is there with her beds, toys, staris, etc. her favorite room of the house....we are loving her through this..."

Please keep purring as JAZZI and family make the transition to a new way of living.
love,
Hazel Lucy

Jazzi needs your purrs

JAZZI - Age 19 is in dire need of your purrs.

Her mom wrote:
"I am devastated by the news from the vet. I am crying...I never cry. Jazzi developed a rare illness which causes sudden acute total blindness in cats. One minute she could see fine and then next her sight is gone forever. My baby girl will never see me again. She is totally disoriented and scared because it was sudden. With gradual vision loss, they adapt..., being feral she does not know how to rely on her other senses as well and she really is totally confused. She runs into walls, falls on the stairs, it is breaking my heart. She has no idea what has happened. She doesn't even respond to me or anyone. She is so unsure and scared. My heart is broken....

We are going to try and set up our room to be safe and successful for her. It is her favorite room. It will be a smaller area and hopefully if she falls it will not harmful. We are going to see if she can adjust."

Please send your purrs to JAZZI and her family.
HL

In Memory of Sydney Rose

SYDNEY ROSE crossed the bridge a year ago October 20th. A sweet Catster with a big golden heart, she loved her mom dearly, and is sorely missed by all. There is already a photo stroll, and I've unlocked my photos so you can grab Sydney's photo. Please tag it Sydney Rose. It will mean a lot to her loving mom and all her friends. We know Syd is in heaven with many of our pals, but we sure do miss her sweet smile.
Thank you,
Hazel Lucy

Catsy is COTW!!!!

Thanks HQ, for making CATSY Cat of the Week! The heavens are rejoicing! We miss her so, but we know she is showering her mom and dad with angelic love for giving her the best months of her life.
Hazel Lucy

Tasha in her new home

Hi Everycat!
Thanks for all the purrs for Tasha.
Her mom plugged in the Feliway yesterday. This morning Tasha came out from under the bed and napped by her mom's head! She's eating and using the litterbox but spends most of the time under the bed where she feels safe. They are going to buy a cat tree, they'll do anything to help Tasha be comfortable.

Meanwhile, mom is crocheting up a storm of Tranquility Blankets! She is making some blankets in soft colors too, like soft green and butter cream, soft pink and buttercream, she's calling it the "Sherbert Collection"! Plus she has scarves for people too! She won't let me test and approve the scarves though... sigh.
Well, time for my first nap of the afternoon,
HL hugs to all,
Hazel Lucy

People are moving!

Not me, I've already moved, but now I'm all settled in. Mom and I sleep through the whole entire night, side by side the way it should be! Today mom took one of the Feliway plug-in thingees to Tasha's new home. Tasha is semi-feral and has lived indoors and outdoors with mom's friends who are in their 80's but going strong. They've now moved to a retirement community so Tasha has to stay indoors and she's not one bit happy about this drastic change. She is under the bed, but eating. I donated the Tranquility blanket that I've been sleeping on for over a year. We sure hope and purr that between the blanket and the Feliway, Tasha will be ok. Please keep Tasha in your purrs.
Thanks!
Hazel Lucy

Home from Venice!

Oh Catsters! You should have been there!
Venice is a wonderful old city, *BUDDIE* and I enjoyed ourselves delighting in all it has to offer! Romantic candle-light dinners, private gondola rides, special tours of all the museums and ancient buildings. Oh my, the paintings! We sat for hours mesmerized by the paintings and sculptures of some of the old masters. The food! The coffee! Honestly, being anywhere with my handsome orange mangoman furhusband is wonderful, add an historic city like Venice and it was magic! My Buddie sure knows how to make a catstergal happy!

We're home now, it was a very difficult several days because I was so upset about CATSY going to heaven. We noticed that for three nights in a row, at dusk, the clouds were pink! This was a sign to us that the heavens welcomed Catsy as one who lived victoriously. We celebrate her life with her family and know that her fur is now all grown in and absolutely beautiful! And did you see her pink wings! Purrfection!

Spending the day unpacking and giving Buddie ginormous hugs before he flies off to help those in need. Thank you all for helping to make our 3rd wedding anniversary a time to remember!
love,
Hazel Lucy
happy furwife

Memorial and Support Thread for Catsy

Here is the Memorial and Support Thread for Catsy.

Catsy went to Heaven this morning

I'm devastated at the crossing of my 16 year old cousin CATSY. Her story touched many lives, including her best friend Sky, her beau Taz, and myself to name a few. Catsy was rescued from years of living on the street in April of 2007. She had many health issues and her new life of comfort and ease was marked by a host of problems not the least of which was being semi-feral. She came to enjoy being stroked and brushed. Catsy learned that life could be wonderful in the pink bed that Sky sent her. Catsy liked all things pink. And now heaven has a new beautiful angel with pink wings. Her mom and dad loved her so much and did everything possible to help her get well and keep her comfortable and happy. I love you cousin Catsy!
sad Hazel Lucy

Wedding Anniversary the 2nd day!

O my!
You will not believe whom we saw flying above us! It was our beloved angel friend WALLY! My handsome furhusband BUDDIE said to me in his beautiful voice, "Darling Gumdrop, look up into the sky!" Did my eyes deceive me? There was Wally all decked out in his handsome wings, aiming his angelic camera upon us! You can see the photo he took, it's the 2nd one from the top of my page! I think Buddie and Wally planned this all along. Thank you Wally, for your friendship and encouragement over the years!
still in anniversary mode,
happy furwife Hazel Lucy

A Day in Venice with my Furhusband Buddie!

Today was spent roaming through some of the museums of Venice. Such places as Doge's Palace, Basilica of San Marco, The Correr Museum, and the Academia Gallery where paintings abound from the Middle Ages to the 18th Century. Then off to Cafe Florian, Italy's oldest cafe, having opened in 1720. It's catered to the likes of Lord Byron and Hemingway. We had a light lunch and sipped more Venetian coffee. I'll be bringing home a suitcase filled with the coffee just for mom! Tonight we'll dine, well, Buddie says it's a surprise!
We're having a wonderful 3rd anniversary!
love to all,
happy Hazel Lucy

Married 3 Years to Buddie TODAY!

Hooray! It's here, our Anniversary is here!
We're having breakfast in our private gondola, leisurely moving through these ancient waters, toasting one another! A champagne breakfast is a great way to begin our tour of the museums of Venice. I've never seen so much water! After a stroll across one of the many covered bridges we'll sip coffee by St. Mark's Square. Did you know that Buddie is quite taken with those covered bridges! I married a man of culture! Oh Catsters, it's wonderful being here with my handsome mangoman furhusband, thinking about our much-heralded wedding when catsterland was smaller! We're giggling just thinking about the dreaded bachelor party and the the out of control bridal shower!
When we married one could give Treats, no Rosettes, no videos, no Special Gifts. We were all hitting that F5 button to give Treats! Remember?
Happy Anniversary Buddie, my love!
your happy furwife,
Hazel Lucy

Where Were You On September 24th, 2005?

Can you believe it!
*BUDDIE* and I are coming up on our 3rd Wedding Anniversary! Most of you know that ours was the first wedding in catsterland. In fact, and I checked, there were 41,133 Catsters on September 24th of 2005. There were 23 bridesmaids and 23 groomskittymen and 95 guests. You can see it all unfold and stroll down memory lane by visiting Buddie & Hazel's Wedding Pages! Seems a long time ago, doesn't it friends?
It's a while since we've done anything extraordinary and it is time to celebrate! Although my handsome mangoman furhusband is an angel now, he visits me nightly in addition to making his rounds giving purrs and healing encouragement to all the Catsters who need a little something extra to help them. We talk and sigh and sit quietly, reflecting on our love and our families and friends. Buddie will take my paw in his and gaze into my eyes and I feel just as I did when he first proposed on Valentine's Day of 2005! But I must add that our love has grown and deepened with each year. I must be the luckiest catstergal ever!

We will be flying to Italy and staying in the historic (but sadly sinking) city of Venice. Our rooms will be in the Luna Baglioni Hotel, comprising the Presidential (2-level) Suite known as the "Giorgione Suite" in homage to the famous Italian artist. The unique feature of the room is a large "altana" wooden terrace overlooking the Lagoon which offers breathtaking views over Venetian rooftops and across to St Mark's basin. On the higher level there is a comfortable bedroom and two Italian marble bathrooms each with a jacuzzi bathtub and a wardrobe. It is decorated and furnished with antique furniture, 18th century carpets, a precious décor and art masterpieces. A modern touch is given by its 2 ginormous plasma screen televisions.
I say, Buddie sure knows how to make me feel special!
Please help celebrate our big day and take a moment to toast one another!
happy Hazel Lucy

My Pirate Name!

I am
FINEGLIN' CYNTHIA COOKE!

aarrgghh and all that stuff!

Belated Thank Yous

You know it's been a tough move for me.
And I'm sure you know what your kind thoughts, prayers, purrs, treats and rosettes mean to me. Reading them made mom's face leak. We felt the power of the mighty purr and it filled our hearts. It was not possible to keep up with all the kindnesses sent our way.
I hope this will in some small way let you know how much they mean to me and mom.
Thank you,
Stars
Fiesta Cat, Beloved Angel Amelia, Bethany, Hope, Shep McCormick, Muppet, Murray, Cuddles
Diamonds
Tang, Samoa, Calvin, Mikey, Mittens, Rocky Ann, Zack, Phoebe, Biscotti, Alfie, Patchez, Buddie my handsome furhusband Ginny, Diego, TC, Phanto, Tiger, Arnold P.
Hearts
Keller, Edgar, Rufus (angel), Scooter, Muffin, Hector, Yoda, Oly, Shelby, Dexter, Boudin, Merlin, Petey, Isaac, Aldo, Rufus, Kiki, Athena, Daisy, Amelia Rose, Callie, Jazzi, Lewis, Patrick, AC, Jake, Hondo, Isis, Oliver, Cleopatra, Belle, Toffy, Gimme, Hunter, Figaro, Sky, Toulouse, Hilda, Aldo, Diego, Linus, Sneakers, Snowy, Hugo
Roses
Mercedes, Jules Vern, Catsy, Baby-G, Prissy, Bitu, Hilda, Lily, Mr. Sam, Shadow, Ethan, Aryeh, Fluffy, Linus
Shrimp
Hunter, Ashley, Simba, Lalo, Callie, Alex, Galin, Kittanna
Drinks
Little Bit, Biscotti, Cherry Berry, Samoa, Mortician, Mercedes, Oly, Buddie, Lewis
Ribbons
Eli, Kittanna, Scooter, Sissy, Arnold P., Buddie
Beach Ball
Patches
Steak
Freddie Mac, Murray, Tweak, Calvin
Watermelon
Sophie
Pirate Flag
Rocky Ann
Collars
Foxey Grey, Ele, pPike, Phanto, Sam I Am, Buster, Lexi, Pia, Tessa, Toulouse, Miracle, Orio, Midnight, Muffin, Frankie Sinatracat, Sock, WIllie, Kylie, Lilly Lu, Punky, Tarcin, Samuda, Peaches, Smokey, Elvis, Suha, Minette
Flowers
Rufus, Sally Maria, Caney Cat, Caviar, Huey, Rizza, Chiefy
Gold Medals
Kirby, Dashiell
Paw Power
Daphne, Ashley Grimalkins, Wally, Ashley Delicious Dazzle, Casper, Mr D, Madison, Hambone, Lucky Boo, Isis, June Bug
Bandaid
Rurus (angel), Klemy Q-Tip, Bo Peep
Candle
Patches, Muppet, Snipper, Catsy, Simba, Taz, Sissel, Simon
Butterfly
Mercedes, Dusty, Puddles, Alex Finnegan
and also the Anonymouse givers! If I missed anyone, please forgive me.

love and thanks,
Hazel Lucy

Middle of September

Wow, I haven't written in over a week!
I've been busy testing and approving blankets and now scarves for humans too! Going to see if the local boutiques will carry them. See the super-soft scarves at Hazel Lucy's Tranquility Blankets and Hats.
Getting ready to send another shipment of Snuggles (shelter blankets) up to a shelter in Illinois where *Tweak*'s mom volunteers. So far 4 cats who have the shelter blankets have been adopted, and the blankets go with them to their furever home!

I'm much better though I did have several "accidents" the other day. Mom noticed a tense and fearful look on my face that day. Now she makes sure that the HEPA air cleaners are running to help block out any sounds that are making me nervous.

Last week 2 fantastic packages arrived!
The first was a house-warming gift from *Mercedes* and gang, a ginormous no-sew fleece bed! Wowza! I love it! Thank you cousin Mercy!
The very next day the box from *Samoa* arrived. Diego is not the only cool cat with "that 70's bed"!!!!! It's yummy! Check out the neat beds that Samoa and Calvin's mom makes at The Cat in the Clover.
Only problem is, mom wants to use them as her own pillows! No mom, they're mine! I stretch out so that part of me is on the "Mercy bed" and part is on "that 70's bed". Can napping be any better than this????
love,
Hazel Lucy

Adam is COTD!

Look who is COTD!!!!! Adam of Santa Rosa, whom we all love and sent purrs and prayers and toys and gifts to. Who is so healthy and happy now! Who was found in the most dire circumstances and now lives with his bestest firend in the world. CONCATS Adam!!

My Checkup at the Vet and I'm A-ok !

Just arrived home from the vet, it takes 32 minutes to get there, exactly 15 miles door-to-door. The handsome whitecoat took my blood, but they were prepared. The vet tech said, we know Hazel is not happy here! Anyhow, the doc said I'm fine. He also said if he was my regular vet, he would probably not have changed my insulin, and that considering my sedentary lifestyle, I presented normally. Mom may still want to change vets. I cried the whole trip up and back. Now I'm home, safe in my abode. The first order of business is the snack I missed because of the trip! Then I'll settle down to a very long nap. Thank you for your notes and rosettes, they mean so much!
Oh, and I'm losing weight just because I'm not eating as much! I can afford to lose plenty, with my nekked belly, mom was saying I needed a tummy tuck! Mom sure has a strange sense of humor!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Tomorrow is the day

Hello Everycat!
Tomorrow is the day I'll ride in the car to the big animal hospital for my follow-up appointment. The whitecoat will check to see how I'm doing on the Lantus insulin. I'm sure I will get a clean bill of health. I'm back to purring and mom says I'm happy! The tough parts are the trip up and back because I go to the bathroom in the carrier, always. We'll try the Feliway spray to see if that helps.

Just a note to say that my handsome furhusband Buddie's computer is offline until the cable is fixed where the workers down the street chopped into it! So that means Gibbs, Cash and McKenna are also offline but hope to be back soon!

love,
happy Hazel Lucy

Last weekend in August!

Hello everycat!
Well, first to say I am much improved, but we'll know for certain when I see the vet next Thursday for my follow-up appointment. I'm busy testing and approving blankets, and especially like testing the Snuggle blankets that go to shelters.

Second, mom can't keep up with the pmail so please forgive me if I have not responded. We're spending less time on the computer.

Third, purring that all creatures will be safe from the wrath of Gustav.

And last of all, have a wonderful Catster weekend!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Jason Cash is The Diary Pick of the Day!

Jason Cash who lives with Victor Gibbs in the house that my angel furhusband Buddie built, is The Diary Pick of the Day! Wheeeeeeee! Better known as the "tiny terror of Tennessee", little Cash is best known for knocking things over and pouting when he doesn't get his way NOW! Weighing in at a mere 6 pounds, this rambunctious guy can leave wreckage in his wake, but we love him so! I wonder if my handsome mangoman furhusband Buddie had a word with the diary gal at HQ! Concats to you Jason Cash and have a great catsterday!
happy Hazel Lucy

Doing Better Each Day!

Thanks to your purrs and encouragement, I'm noticeably more of a contented kitty. Mom says we'll walk the hall once a week so I become familiar with what is right outside our door. I'm so grateful for all the fine suggestions you sent, they have made the difference! The vet called to say that the bloodwork for my pancreas showed everything was normal. I'm a healthy girl but apparently easily stressed now that I'm in my 11th year!

I've stayed busy testing "trankie blankies" when I'm not napping. And guess what? The 100th Tranquility order came in a few days ago. That family will receive a very special gift along with the blanket they ordered! Meet *Suha* , one of 8 siblings! Concats to the whole family. They won't know what their special gift is until it arrives!
Ok, back to testing and approving,
love,
a more contented Hazel Lucy

Walking Down the Hall

Yesterday mom wrapped me in a towel (wise mom) and we walked down the hall so that I could see all the doors. On the way back I meowed and then mom felt that warm water dripping onto her foot and slacks! I seemed to be more relaxed last night. We will take another trip down the hall again soon. I've pretty much stayed on the bed with mom while she makes blankets. I felt good enough to test and approve one too! And mom is limiting her computer time too, which appears to help me. Thanks again for your love, and great suggestions!
happier?
Hazel Lucy

My Four Years in Catsterland!

OMC! My 4 year Catster anniversary came and went while I was in the hospital! When I joined Catster there were just over 4,000 of us. Now there are over 172,000 cool cats here!

Tomorrow mom will carry me through the hall in the apartment building in hopes that I will understand that the sounds that bother me are in the hall and I don't need to worry. We moved a few times but I never became upset like this. I am eating and drinking water and using the litterbox but mom sees that I startle easily. She hopes the Feliway will help calm me.

Again, thanks for all your pmails, treats, rosettes, special gifts, purrs and woofs! There is no way I can thank you all individually, I don't want mom on the computer, I need her full attention! I know you understand. Your kindness is Catster at its best!
love,
Hazel Lucy

I'm Home!!!!!!!

Hooray! Your mighty purrs worked!
I'm home. I have a nekked tummy where it was shaved for the ultrasound, and 3 of my legs were shaved for IV's and stuff. They said I was brave but that was because Buddie was always with me. I'm busy cleaning my legs now, and am going to spend snuggle time with mom but I had to say THANK YOU for purring for me and mom. Catsters Rock!
More later!
love,
home again Hazel Lucy

I'll be home in a few hours!

Mom is ecstatic!
The hospital just called to say I can go home this morning!
Hooray! Mom will give them all the money in the bank and then they'll release me! It was your purrs that made this happen! Thank you! Catsters are just the best people! I can't wait to get home and snuggle with mom. Buddie has been beside me the whole time, what a good handsome orange furhusband he is!
love,
almost free,
Hazel Lucy

Update on HL in the hospital - 6:30 p.m.

One of the nice doctors at the big hospital just called mom. I had my ultrasound and they saw some mild inflammation in a few places, but nothing serious right now, can't tell if it's resolving or starting. I'll be switching to Lantus insulin so that is a good thing. They starved me ALL day today because of the ultrasound so now they're feeding me. They don't know why I stopped eating, it could have been the move to the new apartment with all the new sounds that made me upset. Thankfully, nothing serious stands out. Mom will get a call early in the morning and if all goes well tonight, she will bring me home!

I am eternally grateful for all of your wonderful, encouraging notes, stars, treats, rosettes, special gifts, and purrs. Mom is stunned by the outpouring of affection and caring. The staff here heard a constant hum like a low buzzing and I had to inform them that the whole building was filled with purrs and even a few woofs! Buddie has been telling all the patients here about Catster and Dogster. When I come home mom will snuggle with me the whole entire day!
thanking you all for your friendship and purrs,
Hazel Lucy

Update on HL in the hospital

The vet tech just called mom with my update.
I started eating after receiving fluids by IV yesterday.
They started me on a different insulin and now my glucose is in the mid-200's instead of upper 300's. All these years I've probably been on the wrong insulin for my body! I'm feisty which they say is a good sign, because it means I want to go home and am feeling better already! This afternoon they will do the ultrasound. The bloodwork for pancreatitis has to go to another state. I don't know why, when PA is such a great state! I'm doing much better already and they can tell. Every once in a while the pretty vet tech would hear a "whoosh" and turn her head looking, but it was my handsome mangoman angel furhusband Buddie sprinkling good health dust over all the sick cats and doggies at the hospital. Then he sit by me and we would talk and laugh and gaze into each other's eyes. I love my Buddie!

Mombo read all of your stars, diamonds, rosettes, special gifts and pmails, purr threads in forums and groups, and has tears in her eyes. SO much love coming our way, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my furry little heart for keeping me and mom in your purrs and prayers. After the ultrasound, they will let me use the catputer to type an update. In the meantime I have to go, breakfast is here!
Thanking you all,
hydrated Hazel Lucy

Mom took me to the hospital this morning

It's a good thing mom brought me to the hospital this morning 'cuz they are keeping me overnight! No, my toofies are just fine and so is the rest of my mouth. The pretty lady vet said possible pancreatitis, plus they want to change the kind of insulin I get. Also, I lost weight. I have an IV and they will give me an appetite stimulant because I have to eat to take insulin. They took blood and more blood, I'm surprised there is any left! Everyone says I'm well-behaved and a lovebug. Mom is numb, I'm her baby. The doc will call tomorrow and they'll have results of lots of tests. Thanks for your purrs, I'm sure I'll be ok very soon! My angel furhusband Buddie is with me every moment, he is such a good furhusband!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Vet Tomorrow

Mom says no more fooling around. Maybe I can eat the treats because they are SOFT. So the vet will check teeth. We'll go tomorrow for sure.
Thanks for your purrayers and purrs.
love,
Hazel Lucy

Not Eating

My slot machine makes a pretty little chime to let me know that I've won. I trot over to it, and eat about 4 pieces of food. Then I walk away. I'm purring and sleeping and using the litter box just fine, but eating almost nothing. Unless mom puts those bacon-smelling treats in front of me. I rarely eat treats but when we moved into this apartment, the only other person with a cat came over with a cute little dish and the bag of treats! Mom knows her, and is grateful for the treats. Today mom bought a different food to entice me to eat. Nothing doing! The Feliway is working in the bedroom, but not in the living room. Mom thought maybe I'm drugged by it! I'm not in any obvious distress and I even napped with mom, and she had her arms around me. So I don't know why I'm not eating.
subdued Hazel Lucy

Feliway and my Food!

Now that I'm leaving food in my bowl, mom will have to watch me eat and adjust the amount of insulin she gives me each day. What a great benefit! I still get 2 shots a day but probably 3 or 4 units in each instead of 5 units. Feliway, take me away!
already slimmer,
Hazel Lucy

Since the Feliway arrived

Ok, now you all know how much I love my food. I sit by my "slot machine" and wait for my little snacks. Well all that has changed overnight! Mombo plugged the Feliway in the bedroom and in the living room. I have missed snacks and even left a good portion of my breakfast in the bowl!!!! Could you see my girlish curves disappearing! I am sooo relaxed, and mom says that my purr is even different. Whoa! That Feliway is some good stuff!
once again the contented
Hazel Lucy

It Took 10 Hours!

O my gosh! Mom can't move her head!
She spent 10 hours working on the Tranquility Pages to add more photos. Sometimes that Dreamweaver program does things that make her crazy! It's always a whole day to make changes. Anyhow I think she's done, at least she says she can't move her neck, so please take a look and if you see errors, let me know.
Hazel Lucy's Tranquility Blankets and Hats
There are now 3 pages of "trankie blankies" and the following Catsters are new!
*Biscuity, Jazzi (needs purrs), Fifi, Katrina, Platypus, Winnie, Smudge* And a photo of Mercy in her bucket hat!
Also Oscar and Maggie of Perfect Petfeeder, who made my "slot machine."
Thanks for stopping by!
Hazel Lucy
p.s. Mom just checked the mail and the Feliway is here! Thanks to a very special somecat!

Saturday Doings

* PIA * is a beautiful and lovely Catster who lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She helps with updates for the get well purr list. I want to take this opportunity to thank her for her dedication and hard work. Pia, you're a hero! Concatulations! Won't you stop by her page and say hello!

* PLATYPUS * lives in Montpellier, France. If you take a look at her page you'll see she's enjoying a Hazel Lucy Tranquility Blanket. Yep, two "trankie blankies" flew all the way across the ginormous Atlantic Ocean! Whodathunkit!

Mombo bought Rescue Remedy for herself and the one for pets for me. I think it's helping us both! The Feliway should arrive today. Suggestion: start taking Rescue Remedy at least a month before moving!

Lastly, there has been much sadness as we've said goodbye to dear friends. We're all sending purrs of love and comfort to your families.
Hazel Lucy

absolutelypets.com - NOT!

The Feliway was supposed to be here at the latest today. Mom was promised it would ship Friday, and it was only sent out yesterday. Boy was she steamed. Ok, she's a bit calmer now. First verizon, then comcast, then this - I think mombo needs a staycation!
Thanks for the pmails of support and commiseration, I do appreciate hearing from all of you!
trying to get mom to chillaxin,
Hazel Lucy

A littl bit more about looking for Tess

Many have asked, "Are you still looking for Tess?"
YES! It's still an active search. Ashlye Delicious Dazzle's mom checks the animal shelters' listings and photos with diligence. Just last week we had a lead, but it was not Tess. Aldo's "new" mom created a new flyer and has emailed it to every vet and shelter she can find in the Tampa area. Finding Mr D gave us renewed hope! We are pawsitively thrilled that he is home. His mom never gave up, never stopped finding creative ways of keeping him in the news, keeping him in people's minds. And it worked. We don't know why the media did not pick up the story about Tess, that is disappointing. We all believe that Tess is loved and cared for, and we've asked the Great Cat in the Sky to let us know where she is now.
love,
Hazel Lucy

Will Feliway Help?

Fellow Catsters,
I'm not adjusting very well to moving, lots of new noises that I don't understand yet. Mom's thinking of getting that Feliway so she's been reading about it. I meow often and I'm upset when mom goes out. I'm begging for food from mom and the slot machine. Even when there is food in the bowl I'm talking to mom. She knows I'm upset. The only time I feel good is when I test the blankets. That's it for today. I don't want to be left alone at all.
sad Hazel Lucy

Various and Sundry

Mom spent 10 minutes looking for her glasses before realizing she was wearing them! Is this something I should worry about?

There is no possible way I can thank everyone who has left the beautiful blue bracelets on my page. We've asked HQ several times why they don't appear in chronological order like they did last year. "They're working on it." Ok, HQ but at this point we can't find the new ones to read them. So thanks to all of you who left them for me, really, I'm flumoxed to see so many! And I truly do appreciate them.

The new apartment is a nice change from the old run-down Victorian we came from! It's bright and airy and all things wonderful and my slot machine is working just fine. Mom's not cooking yet, but she sure is happy about having her coffee! Thanks to my angel furhusband Buddie and all those who purred for a successful move. I don't think we all realize how important our angels are to our lives....

I am very sad about Boudin and Cole, the get well purr list so often is about heartache. Sending loving purrs of comfort to their families.

Yours well and truly,
Hazel Lucy

Mom has a blog about Verizon customer service!

Friends,
After the DSL fiasco earlier this week mom started a blog.
All about her travels throughout the U.S., India, and the Phillipines while talking to verizon customer service. In 3 hours she went from country to country trying to get help. Someone called a "Level 3 Technician" had to help get the connection running again. So mom found the email addresses of some verizon top corporate officers and wrote to them. The response was immediate! The emails that came said an investigator was going to call and that this would be routed to the right people. Then we moved, lo and behold, no phone service. Mom called several times from someone else's landline. Each time she was assured the phone would be up by 5 pm on August 1st, Friday. So Friday she calls at 2:30pm. "Well, it's already late in the day so you probably won't have service until after the weekend." Has anycat seen my mom go ballistic? Pleeze, don't make my mom angry! So mom went to bed last night, sans phone service. (She did buy a prepaid cell phone that is supposed to activate after 5 minutes. Took 26 hours, and that too will be another blog.) This afternoon, Saturday, there was a knock on the door. Two nice verizon technicians said they were here on "presidential Verizon order" to get the phone working. WOW! They had 20 minutes left to work until they go on strike. They were kind and understanding, oh and handsome too! They had the phone working in 10 minutes. Mom was sincere in her thanks to them. Then she got a call from a Verizon person who gave mom her name and special number to call if there are ever problems again. I think mom's blood pressure is normal now. But need I say that mom's middle name is persistence!!!!
love,
Hazel Lucy
p.s. I updated the get well purr list too.

All moved into our new home!

You'd think it was a year, the way mom carried on not having phone or internet. I told her to take a nap and everything would be fine. Well, we are online but no phone. I can see lots is happening here, so later today I'll work on the get well purr list updates and additions.
Thanks to all of you who purred, pmailed, and gave rosettes and gifts for our move.
We love you Ashley!
Hazel Lucy

A Moving Story

I'm moving to a new apartment this coming Tuesday. Hooray!
We're finally leaving the bad bad apartment for a clean and well-maintained abode about three whole blocks away. It's been scary living here, the landlady refuses to make any repairs. The electrical system in this apartment is dangerous. So, mom rented a small truck to take everything over in just two loads. Bunches of friends are going to show up to load and unload everything. Thank Cat for good friends. By Tuesday night, I'll be sleeping in my new residence! We don't know for sure if the phone or internet will work, as verizon has really messed up the account. So please purr that all goes well. I know my wonderful angel furhusband Buddie will be flying overhead making sure we are ok.

Oh, and I won't be left unattended for a single moment. Mom will stay in the old apartment with me until the second truckload and then we'll go together. I won't have to worry about open doors and lotsa people. I will be safe and secure.
see you soon,
Hazel Lucy

Can you help find a new home for Kramer's cousins?

Calling all you wonderful purring and kind Catsters!
Remember Tiny Krazy? Well his brother Kramer's grandpop has two kitties who need new homes because he is going into a nursing home soon. Please read the forum thread, maybe you can help or know someone who can. I am moving in a few days and will not be on the computer much.
Operation PawPaw forum thread.

thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Hazel Lucy

Update on the stray "Gorgeous" who was captured in Tampa

Remember the stray who was captured by Ashlye Delicious Dazzle's mom at Laurel's house? Well "Gorgeous" had four beautiful kittens who have all been adopted out to wonderful homes. And Gorgeous is now queen of the refuge where she is enjoying a life of ease and luxury thanks to all of you wonderful and generous Catsters! And more good mews! Aldo is in very good health. No kidney problems whatsoever!
happy,
Hazel Lucy

Who will it be?

I'm waiting to see, who will it be?
That's all I can say. I'm sworn to secrecy until it happens.
Hazel Lucy

P.S. Thank you Anon-y-mouse for the "cat in a fish hat" rosette! I love it!
And I received four "Best in Show" rosettes, also from anon-y-mouse and be sure that I am passing it on! Thank you so very much!

This is a very good Friday!

I woke up this morning and what did I see?
Two very special notes left for me.
A note from Jazzi about something for me:
PAWS Angels WAGS for Kindness Kitty of the Month

and a note about something else for me:
Navin and Buds - Bud of the Day

I am honored, humbled and almost speechless (not quite)!
Without catsterland my life would be empty and meaningless.
It is because of everyone else that I can do what I do. I take it to heart that one life CAN make a difference. There are so many deserving Catsters who give 100% of themselves 100% of the time. I admire them, they inspire me to reach higher.
Thank you so very much!
my cup runneth over,
Hazel Lucy

Lost Thank Yous

Mom wrote it all out, the names and the gifts, stars and rosettes. Then somehow it all disappeared into a black hole. I was thanking everycat and doggie for the beautiful and lovely stars, treats, rosettes and special gifts. Please forgive me. I should respond as soon as they show up on my page. But too often I do not. My fault. I still aim to do better.

The Pen Paws group is growing and growing! We send post cards all over the world! CLICK HERE FOR THE PEN PAWS GROUP Lots of us are putting the beautiful post cards up on our walls. It's the latest thing in Catster decorating! Come join us!
love from Hazel Lucy

Independence Day 2008

I concatulate our nation on this special day.
Happy Birthday U.S.A. I'm happy I live here.
It's overcast with a light rain on and off but at the large borough park there are games, awards, foods, pony rides and a big book sale at the adjacent library. There will be over 10,000 people coming for the famous Narberth fireworks show. Mom will watch from one of her well-placed balconies. She's very busy making lots of Tranquility Blankets, baby blankets, hats and scarves and collars, as well as Snuggle (shelter) blankets. She makes the shelter blankets on weekends.
So, everycat please enjoy your holiday weekend and stay safe!
love to all,
Hazel Lucy

Newest Kittens on the Block!

Guess who joined the First Family of Catsterland?
Yep, the newest in a long line of fantastic felines is PIXIE. She is cute as a button! And just 2 pounds! Stop by and say hello to this tiny ball of fur! We know Milo is watching from above with great approval.

And guess what else? Lucky Boo sent this darling kitten to live with his family. Please meet ISADORA who weighs in at a hefty ONE pound! Isadora is very unique, she has 22 toes!!!
overjoyed,
Hazel Lucy

A Humbling Honor

I received word from my dear angel friend Tiny Krazy:

"Dear Hazel Lucy,
By Unanimous Vote Here in Heaven and on Earth...
You have been given the TINY KRAZY Humanitarian Award and have been chosen MISS CAT UNIVERSE 2008 for your humanitarian work!
Love from the bridge
Tiny Krazy"

Thank you, Tiny Krazy! I miss you so very much.
All I can say is that with me stand many Catsters and Dogsters who have made miracles happen!
love,
Hazel Lucy

ALDO IS COTW!!!!!!!!!

Catster HQ, you sure know how to make a gal happy!
* ALDO * is Cat of the Week and I purrsonally can't think of a better choice. He's having a great time in his new home in Baltimore, eating and napping, walking around and napping, growing handsome new fur, did I say napping?
Anyhow, Aldo, thousands of Catsters and Dogsters have followed the true tale of your rescue and we all love you.
happy Hazel Lucy
p.s. We are still hopeful of news about your sister Tess.

The Happy and The Sad - today, Monday June 16, 2008

Guess what Catsters!
Today we celebrate the birthdays of two of ALDO's new family!
JAMES TAILER is 7 years old and MISS JAZZI is four years old. Woohooo! Happy Birthday! We love you and your whole entire wonderful family for giving Aldo a great home!

***********************
On a sad note, today Lucky Boo - Age 14 - crossed the Bridge. We have followed the exploits of LB and his mom for many months. Our thoughts and prayers for Boo and his wonderful mom.

with misty eyes,
Hazel Lucy

Last Rescue Update

To all of you wonderful Catsters and Dogsters,
We are not making headway in learning about Tess. Mr. Insurance man said he "lost" the phone number for the workmen. Personally, I think a good clawing of him is in order. So we hope and pray she is well and that the person who has her, loves her.

So far, nothing on the media. If you would like the media blurb to send out please pmail me.

Finally, thanks to all the wonderful Catsters and Dogsters:
Tyler - Mr Boombastic's mom, Gimme's mom, Dogster Mollie's mom, Ashlye Delicious Dazzle's mom, and so many many more. Your helpful suggestions, lists of resources, your encouragement, support, and referrals, made this rescue happen, and very quickly too.

May 18th I received word from TC an Angel that Noelle was at animal control and that the cats were out. May 20th, traps were set. That same evening Aldo was trapped. After an overnight visit to his vet he went to stay with Gimme and Ele's mom. May 23rd Dogster Noelle was freed from animal control to stay with Dogster Mollie and her mom. May 25th Noelle flew to her new home in Albuquerque to live with Catster Simon and Dogster Ziggy Stardust. June 7th Aldo flew with his new mom to Baltimore to live with O'Malley, James Tailer, Miss Jazzi and family. Meanwhile Ashlye Delicious Dazzle's mom and Tyler - Mr Boombastic's mom drove almost 300 miles each way to set more traps and search again for Tess. No sign of Tess. As her carrier was missing from the beginning, we felt sure that someone had her. The beautiful stray "Gorgeous" also benefitted from the rescue mission. Ashlye's mom made an expert rescue/trap move and grabbed her! She is with kittens, so more lives were saved. They will all have fine homes. A fitting end to the saga that began so tragically.

What a fantastic team of people! I am honored to know such caring, dedicated and efficient people. Catsters and Dogsters are the best people!
Hazel Lucy
mission control - over and out

Today Aldo is Meeting His New Family Members!

Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!
Aldo is now meeting O'Malley and the rest of the clan in his wonderful new home in Baltimore! Here is Aldo's new page: ALDO: CHAPTER 2

Noelle is enjoying the dog park and likes the high altitude of Albuquerque:
NOELLE (THE NEXT CHAPTER!)

Regarding Tess, we have no contact number for the workmen yet, there is a bit of bureaucracy to maneuver through, but we remain very very hopeful of good news. Please continue purring that we'll soon be in touch with the workmen and that Tess is well and thriving.

News releases have been sent to a number of newspapers and tv stations, in the hope that this story will be picked up.
love to all,
Hazel Lucy

ALDO is HOME!

From O'Malley:
"Aldo is resting in Mommy's bedroom with a Hazel Lucy trankie blankie, a bowl of cool water, some yummy kibble, and--much welcomed--a litterbox!!

It was a smooth trip.
Much more later, including photos!
Gotta go!

SMOOCHES to evfurrybody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Aldo is at the Airport in Florida!

Wowee, that was a great phone call!!!!
O'Malley's mom (also James Tailer and Miss Jazzi) just called form the Orlando airport. She has Aldo and will soon board the jet bound for Baltimore. She and Gimme's mom met at the airport to transfer Aldo. He is very calm. Everyone is crying. What a day! By 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Aldo will be in his new home. His stroller will arrive on Monday. Oh what a great life he will have! Hooray for the rescue team and hooray for Aldo's new mom!
With a happy leaking face,
Hazel Lucy

O'Malley's mom will fly down to Florida and fly Aldo back

From O'Malley:
"It's supposed to be over 90 degrees in Baltimore this Saturday. Since kitties can't go on planes when the weather is above 85 degrees, and Aldo was going to have a connecting flight in Atlanta, we were very worried that he'd get stuck there.

So Mommy's going to fly down to Orlando on Saturday instead and bring Aldo back on her lap! Hooray! Gimme and Ele's mommy arranged the whole thing. We want to thank her so much for all the work she's done to get Aldo to his new home in Baltimore, and for giving him a home full of love in the meantime. Gimme, Ele, and their fursibs will always be a part of our furmily in our hearts.
Love can build a bridge!"


PLEASE READ the blog concerning emergency preparations:
Pet Lawyer Discusses Emergency Preparations

Update - Monday 9 p.m. Eastern Time

Hello all you wonderful caring Catsters!
Aldo goes to the vet on Wednesday for a checkup and to be tested for feline leukemia. Afterall, he was outside for a while. If he receives his flying certificate he'll be on a flight to Baltimore on the weekend.
Still waiting for contact with the workmen to ask about Tess. Please be hopeful and keep purring.
NOELLE is having a blast in Albuquerque! O'Malley informed me I had written Aldo instead of Noelle! Do you think mom is tired???
I'll post new info as soon as I have it.
love to all,
Hazel Lucy
mission control

Quiet Day on the Rescue Front - Friday 1 p.m. Eastern Time

The traps are still in use at Laurel's home. So far, one neighborhood cat has been trapped FOUR times, another cat, TWO times! Must be the food. With each passing day we are more confident that Tess is with someone who wanted her.
Making plans for Aldo to fly to Baltimore next weekend.

Here is the Catster Group started in honor of Laurel:
For the Love of Laurel

I'll post new information as soon as it's confirmed.
Media is being alerted to the story.
With ginormous hugs for all,
Hazel Lucy
mission control

Rescue Update - Thursday 11 p.m. Eastern Time

Things are winding down a bit on the rescue front. Noelle is in her fabulous new digs in ABQ, Aldo will fly to Baltimore soon once the vet okays him for the flying certificate, and we're hopeful of news about Tess. I believe a good and kind person has her, but we would dearly like to know if we can help in any way.

Aldo wants Gimme's mom to know where he is at all times. Mom heard him on the phone again today! He is a very calm mellow guy. And he is doing fine without medication. The vet will check him out next week.

So many to thank, and I'll do that soon, but not until we have the remaining piece of the puzzle.
love to all for your continued kind words to all of the rescue team.
Hazel Lucy
mission control

New Pics of Aldo!

Wow! Is Aldo feeling good!
Check out his new pics on Elé's page:
Elé's page with Aldo pics
Tess has not been seen by Laurel's neighbor, we believe someone already has her. I'm hopeful that a workman has her and will tell us. Hopeful of news later in the week.
Making preliminary plans to fly Aldo to his new home in Baltimore.

Thank you for all the stars and rosettes. Gosh, a DDP twice in one week!
Thanks, Diary gal at HQ!
Hazel Lucy

Update on Noelle (the next chapter)

Received from Simon and Ziggy Stardust this morning:

Noelle is showing a bit of her emotional trauma - she is afraid to do anything without me - even go to the bathroom outside! She is very timid and shy about food as well, as if someone is going to come from behind while she's eating and beat her senseless. Its sad. But things are improving as well. At the dog park yesterday she played a little frisbee and her tail was wagging. She played so well with the other dogs her size. Even better, although I had to carry her outside, today she started to actually play with her tug toy!

She will not go in the dog house yet - I think she's afraid due to the flight. She can't get on the regular dog bed I got her - it is too soft and she can't pick up her chubby self high enough and she trips and gets scared. However, she LOVES her new bed. Maybe she'll actually sleep through the night on it! She gets a little freaked out in the middle of the night and hops onto the bed. If I hold her, she'll sleep and snore and fart.... (but then Simon won't sleep with me, which bums me out...)

It is so wonderful to see her little moments of joy. It takes so little to make her happy. SHe is very comfortable with Ziggy and Ziggy really seems to enjoy her company as well. He has been so well behaved! The cats act as if she's been here the whole time! I put some new pictures on her page, so you can see her! She is still skittish enough that if I pull out a camera, she immediately moves to sit on my foot or to cuddle, so it is really hard to get pictures. WIth time, they will come....

From Miss Hazel Lucy:
I know I speak for all of us when I say "We Love Our Greater American Trufflehound Noelle!" Lots of new photos on her page:
Click Here for Noelle's new dogster page!

* * I am convinced that someone has Tess, probably a workman, will know more in a few days. The only carrier found on the property is the one with Aldo's name on it ...., meanwhile we still have use of the traps. * * *
Hazel Lucy
mission control

Noelle in Albuquerque with a new Dogster Page!

Noelle's new dogster page is online. Simon's mom created it already!
We still have a couple of leads to check out and should have firm information by week's end, I hope. The story of 2 cat carriers may not be valid. There is always a rumor floating around. Stay calm, this tragic story is one of happy new beginnings, thanks to all of you!
Love to all,
Hazel Lucy
Mission Control!

RESCUE UPDATE - Sunday 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time

Two leads remain in the hunt for our Tess and one is looking pretty good to us.
1) Laurel had 2 cat carriers, each with a cat's name on it. The one labeled "Tess" is missing. It will take several days before the workmen can be found since the landlord is not answering his phone, he may be out of town.
2) The other remaining possibility is that someone in the area found her. We think the new posters offering a reward will do the trick if that is the case.

So, now Catsters and Dogsters, please put your mighty paws together and pray, purr and growl that the landlord quickly answers his phone and is forthcoming with the information on how to contact the workmen.

The large amount of raw food that Laurel had for them has been given to a local Big Cat rescue organization.

At this moment the big affectionate "lap dog" Noelle is bound for her new home in the higher elevation of Albuquerque, New Mexico to live with Catster Simon and Dogster Ziggy Stardust.
With insurmountable hope I remain,
Hazel Lucy

RESCUE UPDATE - Sunday 4 p.m. Eastern Time

No sign of Tess. However, the stray cat that has been seen and fed by neighbors is now in custody, and will have a good home. She has been named Gorgeous because she is! Margaret, the woman with the traps will pick up Gorgeous and take her to sanctuary.
Hazel Lucy

RESCUE UPDATE - Sunday 2 p.m. Eastern Time

Ashlye and Tyler's mom met up with the trapper lady, Margaret at Laurel's house. Laurel's friend and brother were there also. They are 100% certain that Tess is not in the house and almost positive she is not in the back building/shed. They will leave traps around the property for several more days. New posters are being printed, this time with a reward offered and more photos of Tess. At the bottom of each poster are the tearoffs with the contact phone number. A poster will be put by the door of each home within a several block area.

Our next hope is that either a neighbor has her or one of the workmen. Every lead is being explored.

Aldo is enjoying cuddles with Gimme's mom.
Noelle will be on a 6:30 p.m. flight to ABQ.

Hazel Lucy

RESCUE UPDATE - Sunday 12 Noon Eastern Time

There is a chance that Tess was taken in by someone in the neighborhood, or taken home by one of the workmen from Laurel's house. New posters are being made with a reward offer. Every possibility is being thoroughly explored. Thanks to all of you who have sent great trapping ideas, and encouragement.
Tyler and Ashlye's moms should be at the house soon!
love,
Hazel Lucy

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Laurel Jaffer's Memorial Guest Book (Tampa Tribune/Legacy.com) is now Permanent.

RESCUE UPDATE - Sunday 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time

Tyler Mr - Boombastic's mom just called. She and Ashlye Declicious Dazzle's mom are about half-way to Laurel's home. (Don't you just love their names?) They stopped at McDonald's for breakfast. They have been on the road since 6 a.m. while most of us were sleeping. The trip is about 300 miles one way! We're feeling very confident that our Tess (she is all of ours now, right?) is in the little workshop building behind the house. Please send your most fervent prayers, your most positive thoughts and energy to Tess and to Tyler and Ashlye's moms. Laurel's long-time friend will meet them there as will her brother.

Laurel Jaffer's Memorial Guest Book (Tampa Tribune/Legacy.com) is now Permanent.

On another note, this is Memorial Day Weekend. We salute those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Those fallen heroes gave everything. While many of us are enjoying the sun, the beach, the water, and the cookout; please take a moment and reflect that without those men and women, many of the things we take for granted would not be possible.
Love,
Hazel Lucy

The Rescue Plan for Sunday May 25th

Do not give up hope Catsters!
Here is the plan for Sunday. The fantastic moms of Tyler-Mr Boombastic and Ashlye Delicious Dazzle are leaving at around 6 a.m. to drive hundreds of miles to Laurel's home. Ashley's mom is a licensed rescuer with a good record of trapping skittish hard-to-trap cats. She has lots of smelly foods, traps, nets, and much more. She asks for your prayers for this venture. Have you ever seen more dedicated people? I did not know Laurel, most of us involved did not. Did that matter? No, because for so many of us here, this is a family and we take care of our own. The resources within the Catster community are pawsome!

Simon's family in Albuquerque is gearing up for Noelle's arrival. Sunday she will fly on a big jet. I just know she will enjoy the New Mexico climate!
Aldo is spending a lot of time napping with Gimme's mom, purring away. He even had a chance to check out the rest of the house today!

Say a prayer, keep hope alive, and know that each and everyone one of you is important to this effort.
love,
Hazel Lucy

Rescue Effort

If communication makes for a successful rescue effort, we did it. I will properly thank everyone for donating and that will take place tomorrow and Monday. Mom fielded phone calls from 7 a.m. until 1 a.m. the next morning for 3 1/2 days. She finally was able to leave the house today but just to mail packages. One box of Snuggle Blankets to PAWS Montclair and two boxes of donated things to two flooded shelters in Missouri. And she also sent my favorite long-tested blankets to Florida for Aldo and Tess.

I cannot begin to thank everyone for their input, suggestions, referrals, etc. I don't think it will be possible to individually thank everyone for all the rosettes, stars and special gifts. Please know that I read each and every one of them. Your prayers mean everything. The core group of rescue people worked tirelessly and seamlessly. No ego was involved, no question of trust, it was all there, everyone doing their part. No professional could have done more, or done it with more heart. It's a privilege to talk with the moms and dads who are making a difference in the lives of Laurel's animals. I did not know Laurel, but it didn't matter, we're family here. Catsters and Dogsters ARE the best people.
**Paying that Tess goes into a trap to complete the miracle**

On my end alone
Emails: 315
Pmails: 260
Phone Calls:100

The rescue fund continues to grow as checks come in. Please no more, you opened your hearts and wallets so quickly without a second thought. I value your trust and will provide a full accounting of every penny spent.
With much gratitude and heartfelt thanks, and ginormous hugs to all,
Hazel Lucy who is thinking of Jen and Simba....

Noelle is on her way to Mollie's home!

Noelle is in the car with Mollie's mom. They'll arrive home around 6 p.m.
She says Noelle wants to crawl into her lap!
More later.
No fees of any kind were charged to release her.
Miracles.
Pray for Tess.
Hazel Lucy

Rescue Update - Friday 12 noon Eastern Time

Heard from Laurel's friend.
At approx. 3:45 p.m. they will meet at animal control and Noelle will be released to the mom of Dogster Mollie. Molly's mom will take care of Noelle until she meets up with Tyler-Mr Boombastic's mom. Noelle will be going to Albuquerque to live with Simon and his family.

The house has been searched and Tess is not there. Some of Laurel's clothing will be placed in the traps. He will also check for Tess visually at animal control.

I will write more later, but for now, thanks to so many incredibly giving, selfless people who came together, over many miles, not knowing each other, to create a miracle.

On another note, I too am very sad to say goodbye to our dear friend Simba. We all enjoyed reading of Simba's marvelous sense of humor and her needle-lady hating stories. I take comfort in the fact that Simba and her mom had an incredible relationship and many years of love together.

Aldo is on his way to Gimme and Ele's home!

Gimme's mom just called. They are in the car driving home!
Mom heard Aldo's meow!!!!! Aaw, now mom's face is leaking a bit.
The vet clinic loves him, they said he is the sweetest cat!
And Noelle is going to be released either this afternoon or tomorrow. Laurel's brother made her friend next-of-kin so that things could progress more easily for Noelle.
For all the twists and turns in communication, things are looking good.
Praying that Tess goes into a trap. There is a slight chance that one of the workmen may have taken her home. Laurel's friend is working to check that out.
I'm absolutely thrilled at what a dedicated group of Catsters and Dogsters can accomplish, given a very complicated situation. I hope Laurel is watching.
Hazel Lucy

Rescue Update - Thursday 1 p.m. Eastern Time

I made a Memorial Page for Laurel Jaffer.
Laurel Jaffer Memorial Tribute Page

GOOD NEWS!
Aldo is in fine shape! He is very healthy.
Gimme's mom will pick him up today from the vet.
Noelle is at animal control but will go to St. Francis Society where they are happy with our hopes and plans.
Friends,
PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE ANIMAL CONTROL CENTER
DO NOT CALL ST FRANCIS SOCIETY
All the calls coming in from around the country made them suspicious of our effort. Too many people stirring the pot.
Tess has not been trapped yet.
The news overall is very good. Remain calm and focused. Our objective is to save them. Aldo and Noelle are saved.
love,
Hazel Lucy

No News Update - 8 a.m. Thursday

Don't give up hope, stay positive, keep purring!
Tess did not go into the trap last night. The wonderful trapwoman said they could keep the traps over the weekend.
Hoping to hear from the St Francis Society about Noelle.
Will have an update on Aldo by 9 a.m.
"Love creates miracles"
Hazel Lucy

Waiting for Rescue Updates - 8 p.m. Eastern Time

I know it's been a long day, waiting for news about Noelle and Aldo and Tess.
Right now we're waiting for confirmation that Noelle was picked up by St. Francis Society Animal Rescue. They foster and place animals.
Gimme's mom, Laurel's long-time friend and Margaret (the woman who brought the traps to the property), all met there and re-set them. Waiting for a hungry Tess to go into one of the traps.
Please do not be upset. Things may not seem to be going to our plan, but they will come to a successful conclusion, I am sure. Each day brings us closer.
I'll post an update as soon as I know the status of Noelle.
And many thanks for all the moolah, we have plenty for now.
Sincerely,
Hazel Lucy

Rescue Update - 1 p.m. Eastern Time

Today a Dogster mom will go to animal control and fill out the paperwork for Noelle. Paws crossed all goes well. She will probably have to return tomorrow to pick her up. Not quite sure of all the rules.
Should have an update on Aldo from the vet later today.
Laurel's memorial service begins at 2:30 p.m. EST.
After the service her friend will check the house and trap.
Gimme's mom will also go there again.
All we can do now is wait and purr and pray that all goes well.
Mom made a list of the donors and will be thanking each of you wonderful givers soon.
hopeful,
Hazel Lucy

Aldo is at the Vet! Wednesday 9 a.m. Eastern Time

The title says it all,
Aldo is now at the vet by now, 9 a.m. Wednesday, Eastern Time.
Gimme's mom will foster him when the vet releases him.
Tess has not been trapped but the traps will be set again later today.
love,
Hazel

ALDO HAS BEEN TRAPPED - Tuesday 10 p.m.

CATSTERS!
ALDO is in the trap!!! Aldo is in the trap!
The elderly neighbor checked and there he was!
He called Laurel's friend who just emailed me.
The woman who set the traps will pick him up and take him to the vet early morning.
Hooray! I'm shaking as I (mom) write(s) this.
Hoping that by morning Tess is trapped too, keep purring and praying.
Hazel Lucy

RESCUING ALDO , TESS & NOELLE - 7 P.M. UPDATE (a good one)

Good News Catsters!
ALDO is in the small workshop on Laurel's property, behind the house. He was seen by Gimme's mom. The woman who brought the traps also saw him. She set a trap there and one nearer the house. Tess was seen yesterday but not today. The next-d00r neighbor will check the traps throughout the evening. Once caught they will be immediately taken to their vet.
Very hopeful that tomorrow will bring even better news,
Hazel Lucy

RESCUING ALDO , TESS & NOELLE - AFTERNOON UPDATE

RESCUE UPDATE
Trappers were not very eager to get going.
Laurel's friend was referred to a woman who left her job in the middle of the afternoon to get her traps. They will meet at the house around 6 pm today. She does not want money! Says she has to help because of the special circumstances with Aldo and Tess.

The cats are NOT at animal control.

I will thank you individually for your donations, just not possible right now.

Hopeful Hazel Lucy

RESCUING ALDO , TESS & NOELLE - AFTERNOON UPDATE

RESCUE UPDATE
Trapper is being hired.
The cats are NOT at animal control, probably still on the property.

Hopeful Hazel Lucy

Aldo and Tess - Setting Traps

Every wonderful cat,
We're tired but diligently working with a lot of folks to make a happy ending.
1. Laurel's friend will go to animal control today and see if the cats were in fact picked up yesterday.
2. Contracting with a good professional trap service to place traps around the house.
3. Spoke with their vet this morning. Have Aldo's medicine information.

TODAY's IMMEDIATE NEED:
Someone to pick up the cats if they are trapped. Must be able to respond right away. Need name, address and phone numbers for the trap service to call.

Thanks to all,
Hazel Lucy's mom Julie

RESCUING ALDO and TESS - Update

Cheer Up Friends!
Aldo and Tess were sighted 2 days ago!
They were positively identified by the elderly neighbor's daughter, eating food that had been left near a door of Laurel's home.
We are in the process of finding the professional trap service to set traps around the house. This will require money. I've offered to use my card for the service fees.
In addition, Gimme and Ele's mom will visit the house again later today.
There is hope friends!
Keep purring and praying,
Hazel Lucy

Laurel's Obiturary

Laurel's obituary is online at: http://legacy.com/TBO/Obituaries.asp
Tampa Bay Tribune - Obituaries

JAFFER, Laurel G., 47, of Tampa, died Tuesday, May 13, 2008. She is survived by her mother, Naomi of St. Petersburg, her brother, David of Sarasota and two nieces. Graveside services will take place at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Beth Israel Cemetery, Tampa. An online guest book is available at: segalfuneralhome.com

Not Giving Up on Aldo and Tess-Update

Found the address and phone number for Laurel's elderly neighbor. Someone will call and see if he has the cats. I'll call the vet and animal control in the morning. Will see if that photo is Aldo. Paws crossed. We are covering all the possibilities we can think of. Your suggestions have made the difference! (that includes messages from Laurel's facebook pals).
HL

Not Giving Up on Aldo and Tess-Update

Everycat take a deep breath. We need clear heads, please stay focused.
Gimme's mom is going to go over there tomorrow, she has a meeting in the area.
Laurel's friend will meet her there. The neighbor who helped her a lot, and she in turn helped him, cannot hear so doesn't answer the door. Going to try to get his phone number and call. (those phone that light up). He may have the cats we don't know. If not, we will contract with a professional animal control service to set traps. For this we'd need moolah. I'll be happy to put it on my Visa, but let's wait 'til we know more.
Stay positive, keep praying, and give thanks that Noelle is safe.
Just received word through Laurel's facebook pals that the vet is Dr. Weber. Going to call in the a.m.

HL

Not Giving Up on Aldo and Tess

Received a call from Laurel's friend. He drove to the house and all the doors were wide open. The landlord opened everything to air out the house. Aldo and Tess are nowhere to be found. It is not the kind of neighborhood where people care about animals.
NOW,
Working on getting traps to set around the house. When I call animal control in the morning I'll ask them to be on the lookout for 2 strays, etc.
Another Catster is going to go by the house, if it's open she will search.
We haven't exhausted all the possibilities yet.
KEEP PRAYING.
HL

Update for Noelle

Hi every worried and generous Catster,
Can everyone use a bit of good news?
The wonderful mom of TYLER - MR BOOMBASTIC (family of Caney Cat, Katrina, Missy, Fifi, Dogsters Lucy and Pooh) is going to drive over to fill out adoption paperwork for NOELLE on Wednesday!!! They will foster Noelle until the Railroad is ready to transport her to her new home in Albuquerque, New Mexico with SIMON!
Just one thing, mom has to call animal services and verify that they will allow adoption to someone from another town. Paws crossed.
Still waiting to hear about the cats.
love to all,
Hazel Lucy

RESCUING ALDO, TESS & NOELLE - UPDATE

CONFIRMED:
Noelle is alive and well!
Her previous name (before Laurel adopted her) was Jasmine and that is the name on her collar so that is her animal control name. Her animal control ID number is #A0839165
* * HOORAY !!! * *

The police are required to call Animal Control when there is an animal found in the home with someone who has passed. Please don't be upset with Laurel's brother. She'll be held until May 24th and we expect a rescuer to fill out adoption paperwork on her today or tomorrow. Keep your paws crossed.
*************
But just in case, if you are in the Tampa area and can foster Noelle (Jasmine), please email me at:
hazel_lucy@yahoo.com

The person must go in before Thursday of this week and fill out adoption forms. Here is the site with the information:
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES

Pmail is awful to use when there are hundreds of them to go through.
Keep purring and praying for good news for Aldo who needs daily medication and for Tess.
HL
***********************************************

And I have a sad report from our beloved friend Simba. This is from her diary today:
"With more bad days than good and no further treatment available, the time has come. It is with extreme sorrow that I must tell you all that Simba will be euthanized on Friday (probably 3:00 Catster time - the time should be finalized today). This is by far the most difficult decision I've had to make and the most painful thing I've had to do.
Simba's mom"

URGENT - ALDO, TESS & NOELLE NEED HOMES IMMEDIATELY

URGENT - need homes for Aldo, Tess and Noelle
I wrote Laurel's brother on facebook and he said Noelle is at animal control.
The cats are in the home and Laurel's brother will go over Monday. Think the landlord has fed them. Not sure if Aldo is receiving his medicine. Anyone know who the vet is?
A Catster has offered her home to Noelle and I'll call animal control Monday morning.
Another Catster has offered a home to Aldo and Tess. We will certainly need the help of Catster Railroad.
Anyone have friends in the Tampa area? Would this make a good tv news story?
Must act quickly.
Hazel Lucy

I've Been Tagged!

Margo the Cat tagged me!

THE 4 JOBS THAT I HAVE:
1. President & CEO of Hazel Lucy's Tranquility Blankets and Hats
2. Tester and Approver of Tranquility and Snuggle (shelter) blankets
3. Helping mom crochet by pulling the yarn in the opposite direction
4. Eating the winnings from my "slot machine" Perfect Pet Feeder

THE 4 PLACES THAT I HAVE LIVED OR STAYED AT:
1. Near Allentown, PA where I found mom after someone tossed me from a car.
2. Ardmore, PA
3. Purrsville, PA where I live now
4. ?

THE 4 PLACES THAT I WOULD RATHER BE:
1. No where else in the world than with my mom
2. ditto
3. see No. 2
4. See No. 3

4 FRIENDS TO TAG:
Toulouse
Oly
Victor Gibbs
Jason Cash

What To Do When the Unthinkable Happens

It's a sad time in Catsterland. The news is spreading about the passing of Aldo, Tess, and Noelle's mom. She has 3 animals. It's a very sad day and a hard wake-up call for the rest of us. You can read Hannah's diary for more information.

How do we secure our own future in the event of the unthinkable? What steps can we take now to make for an orderly transition? Let's take a moment to think and plan and put the plan to paper. Give that paper to several people.
Put up signs on the inside of the front door so that in an emergency situation, there are names to call for help.

I've started a Forum Thread and we're brainstorming ideas, please join us:
Preparing for Life Without Mom (or Dad)

Mom quickly put up a web page with sample emergency contact cards:
Emergency Contact Card Samples
The basics are: Wallet Card, Card to put in all vehicle glove boxes, full-size sheet to post in your home. (on the refrigerator, near doors, etc.)

Please help publicize this link in Dogster too!
Many thanks,
Hazel Lucy

Making Snuggle (Shelter) Blankets

Hello Everycat!
I've been helping mom make the Snuggle Blankets for PAWS in Montclair, New Jersey. Mom is filling up the box. So far she has 13 finished, and 7 more to go before mailing it across the Delaware River to the great state of New Jersey. Thank you to the wonderful Catster who sponsored the yarn! I am busy testing and approving each blanket. I believe that every stitch is an animal in need finding the purrfect forever home. If you crochet, knit, sew, can use a scissors, and want to help provide soft bedding for cats and dogs in shelters, please consider joining We Love the Snuggles Project Catster Group.

I've really got the hang of my shiny new slot machine (Perfect Petfeeder). Even if I'm sleeping, when the chime sounds, I rouse myself and trot quickly over to eat my winnings! So far I haven't missed a meal or a snack! Mom laughs. She says I wake up and eat even if I'm not hungry. Moi? Not Hungry! Perish the thought!
That's it for now,
hugs and kisses to all,
Hazel Lucy

Thank You for My Birthday Wishes!

I wish to thank everycat who made my birthday so special. It was a beautiful day of fun and treats and slot machine winnings! Mom and I enjoyed reading all the notes and rosettes and gifts and stars so much!
Thank you!

Stars - Sky, Leo & family, Ash Grimalkins, Simba, Arnold P., Morgan & Ripple & family, Alex & family.
Hearts - Freddie Mac & Oliver, Caney Cat, Rizza in Australia, Lewis, Winnie & Chester.
Sombrero - Yaman, Smokey & Punky, Simba
Ladybug - Daisy & Sugar & family
Tulip - O'Malley & family, Kingsley & family, Augie, Rizza, Kassidy, Sophie, Piewackit, Scooter, Garp, Hilda & family, Alex & Annie & Bugsy, Cali &
Leo & family, Angel Amelia, Isis, Hector & family, Ashlye, Kashmere, Sammie & Kiki, KC Sunshine, Wally & Alfie, Gordy
Rose - Toffy & Vanessa, Fido
Rainbow - Cracked Rib
Blue Birdie - Hannah
Balloons - Punkin & Sasha Maree, Margo, Hambone & family, Cat Street Boyz & family, Catsy
Cake - Gimme, Tabby & Skylar & family, my own handsome furhusband Buddie
Flower Vase - Phoebe
Purple Flower - Diego & Lulu & Furie, Sparkle
Birthday Hat - Simba, Ginny, Sunflower & Zoo Crew, Rachel, Smokey, Samoa & Calvin & family, Rose-Retired Mouser (angel) & family, Klemy Q-Tip, Rufus, Hunter & Munky, Smudge & family, Teebo & Callie, Alex Finnegan
Cupcake - Cally Ann & family, Tommy & Felix & Buster, Gizzie, Picasso, Kila & family, Tigger
Mouse - Tweak & family
Pinwheel - Oly & Petrie & family
Sun - Alfie & Chloe & Turbo
Barbecue Grill - Tyson & Chaucer
Daffodil - Queenie
Trophy - Baby-G & Little One
I Love Mom - Rufus (angel)

Thank you all for your generous birthday gifts to me! I will never forget my 11th birthday for the rest of my lives!
young-at-heart,
Hazel Lucy

Holy Catnip, It's My Birthday!!!!

Thank you to everycat who is leaving treats, Rosettes, Gifts, Flowers and pmails! As soon as mom recovers she will begin the happy but arduous task of thanking everyone. She contacted HQ because every time she goes to my page, all the special gifts move around. Do ya think it would be easier if they were in chronological order??? Anyhow, it's a pawsome day and I know there are lots of parties. I'm sitting here patiently awaiting the dinner winnings from my Slot Machine. Life is good here. And life is purrfect in catsterland!
love and joy,
Hazel Lucy

Why I Am Grateful on My Birthday!

May 1st, is my 11th Birthday.
I give thanks for my mom who saved me from certain death on the street.
Everyday she tells me she loves me, like about a hundred times at least. She makes sure I always have filtered ice-cold water in my bowl. I love cold cold water. She watches me sleep because it makes her happy inside. She understands my language and anticipates my every desire. She even used all her money to get me my own Slot Machine and rigged it so that I win 6 times every day!
She is dedicated to making Snuggle Blankets that go to shelters.
So on this day I celebrate my mom. Mom, you're the best!
Hazel Lucy

Only 2 More Days and I'll Be ELEVEN!

May 1st is our Birthday!
COUSIN SOFIE will be FOUR, KASHMERE will be SEVEN, KC SUNSHINE will be TWELVE, and yours truly will be ELEVEN! Guess we have most of the decades covered! Mom's never been gung ho about my birthday before, I think it's all the excitement about my Slot Machine ( Perfect Petfeeder). I now have a sixth sense and know when it's about time for the chimes to play and my winnings to drop into the bowl. Life is good!
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

My Birthday Week!

Oh my catness! OMC!
I will be turning 11 years old on Thursday, May 1st! Yippee!
Mom is sooo happy I'm here with her. I found her the end of October 1998 on a cold winter's day, freezing, starving and so sick the vet wanted to send me to the bridge. Mom used alternative medicine to save me. We've been together ever since. She has given me a life of love and ease. I adore mom. I look into her eyes and tell her "I love you mom!" She even gave me a cushy job, testing and approving Hazel Lucy's Tranquility Blankets and Hats. It's a great job and I take it seriously.

My shy Cousin Sofie has a birthday the same day, May 1st. Sofie will be 4 years old! Sofie is a sweet shy gal who loves chicken. It's an honor to share the same birthday with her!
Happy Birthday to me!
Happy Birthday Sofie!
Hazel Lucy

Once again - I am....??

Ok, I'm not too embarrassed to put this here, mom answered again after having another cup of coffee. I am, drum roll.....

Angelina Jolie

Traditional Beauty

Just like with Hollywood superhero Angelina Jolie, they broke the mold after they created Hazel Lucy!

Defying the conventional meaning of the word pawpular, Hazel Lucy can't scratch behind an ear without it being reported and talked about. Hazel Lucy leaves pets of the opposite sex blubbering and babbling nonsensically after each encounter, their cuteness and charm receptors bubbling over with excitement. Always one to entice a broad audience, Hazel Lucy not only loves to strut her stuff on the catwalk, but digs every chance she gets to make a difference, adopt a pet in need or dish out for her favorite charity.

Day 8 - Automatic PetFeeder

Ding! Ding! Ding!
Mom dropped some coins into the coin bowl and they went Ding! Ding! I went running to my slot machine, er, pet feeder! Alas, no winnings were in the bowl. Am I conditioned now or what? Mom was giggling to see me run over to check the bowls. I am counting down now, 5, 4, 3,... the slot machine will drop some tasty morsels in a few minutes! See Hazel run!

Day 7 - Automatic PetFeeder

OMC! I won! I won!
I figured it all out by my self!
The chimes ring on the contraption and my winnings fall into the bowl just like at the casino! Now I know what the sound means.
It means I Won! And yep, there I am ready to eat my winnings.
It's good to win. I win every single day, and not only that, I win several times a day!
* Perfect Petfeeder * thou art my very own slot machine! I sure do like winning!
If anycat wants to visit, I'll share my winnings with you.
hugs to all,
Hazel, who finally figured it out

Day 5 - Automatic PetFeeder

Yesterday I didn't seem so fearful of the big feeder. Mom says she does not believe that I still do not look into the bowl to see if there is food. She thinks I have lost an ounce or two! I have never had trouble with changes before, why now! With my food of all things! What will happen to my girlish figure?? I put my paw on mom's face today so she could show me that there is food in the bowl. This could be a really cool new game!

Day 3 - Automatic PetFeeder

Day 3 has almost ended so I thought I'd give everycat an update on how I'm getting along with the Perfect Petfeeder. I still don't associate the chime with food in the bowl so my meals have been erratic. Because of this, mom can't give me the usual amount of Insulin. We'll work it out. I am eating less though. And I'm just as affectionate and happy to test and approve Tranquility Blankets as before. So I'd say that today was a draw. I stare at the Contraption a lot, but I already know begging it won't work so I haven't even tried!
I'm grateful for your kind words and Rosettes and special Gifts of support as I become acquainted with this dispenser of my food. Mom is absolutely sold on it!
Until the morrow,
Hazel Lucy

Day 2 - Automatic PetFeeder

This is getting out of hand! Mom has had 2 whole nights of uninterrupted sleep! Could this be the key to good health? My begging days are over!
I still have not associated the chime with food in the bowl of the Perfect Petfeeder. I'm snacking less, in fact, mom adjusted the number of feedings from 6 to 4. Do you realize the tremendous implication here? It means less Insulin and eventual weight loss. Now I know a girl's gotta have curves, but mom and the vet would be happier if I lost a little weight. Mom is so happy sleeping through the night, that alone is priceless. If anycat or dog out there has questions please pmail me. Alas, I do not own the company, but surely wish I did!

Day 1 - Automatic Cat Feeder

Something is very different around here.
Mom slept the whole night through. I did not wake her at 2 a.m. as I usually do. No more gently putting my paw on her cheek to say it's time for food. I did not make a peep. Mom didn't hear the gentle chime of the feeder or the kibble dropping into the metal bowl so she does not know if I ate at 6 a.m. I have eaten at the feeder station a few times. I spend lots of time looking at the contraption. Mom is amazed at how quickly I have caught on, saying, I'm a whole lot smarter than she ever gave me credit for! Hmmmph!
* * * * * * *
Mom here:
It's much quieter without Hazel's very vocal begging. Our snuggle time together is all about us, not about food. This unit can be programmed to dispense food up to 6 times in 24 hours and each feeding can be a different amount. I have it set to put some food in the bowl every four hours. Tiny snacks at 2 a.m., 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. Breakfast at 6 a.m., Dinner at 6 p.m. These are the meals where Hazel will receive her Insulin shots. If it were not for the "Economic Stimulus" money, this handsome unit would still be just a dream! Even better, it's made in the USA!
* Perfect Petfeeder *

p.s. Will update the Get Well Purr List after a friend's funeral service tomorrow. Thanks for understanding, needed some emotional time away from the List.

Automatic Pet Feeder Has Arrived

Ok, so I beg, loudly and often. I thought mom was happy that I've grown so vocal. She is NOT happy that I've grown too heavy. Says it may affect my health when I'm old. Her justification is that what she spends on it now she'll more than save later in vet bills. Most automatic feeders will not dispense the star-shaped kibble I eat. She used all her "economic stimulus" money to order me the Perfect Pet Feeder. Silly woman. She found a great deal and now this gleaming piece of art is here, charging. By midnight tonight it should be operational. Now listen, mom doesn't give in every time, and usually just puts about 5 pieces of food in the bowl. I guess I shouldn't worry, she may not even be able to program the thing!
Stay tuned!

LOST AND FOUND!!!!

Lost and Found!
A tale of the missing Tranquility Package!
Mom sends the packages insured mail. Early last week, one package did not arrive at its destination. Mom was frantic, I was frantic, so too was the recipient Biscotti, and the gift giver Isis. At the post office here in Purrsville, the nice woman told mom that the package was probably in Biscotti's post office and was overlooked. Mom came home and there was a pmail from sweet cookie Biscotti asking about the tracking number. Because the package is insured, we have a tracking number, and within a few minutes, the post people found it!!!! Biscotti's mom hightailed it to the post office even though curlers were still in her hair. I want to know just who these curlers are and what they are doing in Biscotti's mom's head!!!
Anyhow, the box has now been opened and soon Biscotti will have new photos on his page. Whew, we're all happy now. It was a terrible thing thinking that someone had hijacked a Tranquility Blanket and Hat! Head over to Biscotti's page later for a peek at him with his new blankie!

Ash & Baby-G Eloped!

What a surprise!
Ashley Grimalkins and Baby-G eloped and are now living in wedded bliss!
I'm kinda happy they eloped, weddings take immense planning and we know our pal Ash must conserve his energy. Although now that he's tied the knot with the beautiful Baby-G I'll just bet he has newfound energy! Ash has many health challenges but is here and in good spirits, pleasing his mom no end.
So, I lift my glass and toast catsterland's newest couple, Ash and Baby-G!
Many happy days of love and sharing!
Hazel Lucy

What A Difference!

Holy Catnip!
You know that mom has not been able to crochet much because of her neck.
Well, guess what! She switched from Advil (ibuprofen) to aspirin and..., it's a Miracle! No pain! No ache or tightness in the neck! No monster headache!
Mom has not used aspirin in years, and it's amazing how good she feels. Wow, I am pleased - we will quickly take care of Tranquility Blanket & Hat orders now! Hooray for aspirin!

Supersize them Poopies!

O My Catness! IT IS NOT MY FAULT!
Mom's gagging and choking!
In the middle of the night she awoke and groaned, "I need a gas mask! Hazel, those are the smelliest poops ever!" Well I thought, "It's the medicine, not me!" Mom got up, cleaned the box and said, we need to air out the whole house." Such is the life of me, the cat who takes her medicine like a good girl. Only one dose remains I think. Yippee! Then my poopies will return to normal size and aroma.
As you may have noticed, in catsterland, there is LOTS of talk about poop. Poop is an indicator of the state of one's health. So we're not embarrassed to speak of it. But it is a bit funny to hear mom go on and on about the size being close to that of a doggie. Imagine!

And to thank everycat and doggie for their wonderful rosettes and special gifts:
Ashley Grimalkins, Ariana and Alexis for the pretty stars; Daisy, Sophie, Sugar, Spice and family for the cool St. Paddy's Day hat; Toffy and Vanessa, Margaret Mayberry, Ruben, Kirby, Mercy, Oly, Noah, Petrie and family, Geometry Simba and Isis for the cool Four Leaf Clovers; Boogers, Mr D, United, Rufus, Garp, Hilda, Elvin, Hetty, Shep, Finney, Gimme, Mocha, Kyro, O'Teddy, Gordy, Isis, Fortitude and Boomer, Cali, Leo, Lucky, Ripley, Basil, for the beautiful red hearts; Rufus, Simba, Finney, Tyson and Chaucer for the cute ladybugs; Mackenzie, Klemy Q-Tip, and Sky for the darling pink ribbons; Phoebe for the dainty white ribbon; Hondo, Smudge, Emma, Tandee, Hunter, Oomi, Sophie, Miles for the lovely roses; Rcee, Percey, and Eve for the sweet daffodils; Teebo and Callie for the yummy swiss cheese; Ginny for the delishus cupcake; Diego, Lulu and Furie for the warm sunshine; Catsy for the ball of yarn; Daisy, Ella and Chumley for the pink flowers.
If I missed anyone, I beg forgiveness, mom's not holding up her end of the work.
love and purrs,
Hazel Lucy

Rotten Eggs!

Who knew!
I'm eating well and drinking well but something has changed.
It's the not-so-sweet aroma of almost rotten eggs!
Not my fault! Blame the effect of the Clyndamycin antibiotic.
At least it doesn't upset my tummy. Mom's just not used to the "new" scent!
My poopies are ginormous too! (ok, too much information).
Mom swears she needs a front-end loader for a pooper scooper!
That's my mom, all humor!
Have a great day, Catsters!!!!
love,
Hazel Lucy

The Good Antibiotic

Today mom picked up liquid Clindamycin for me. It's the exact same medicine she takes for her dental appointments! Mom put the dropper in my mouth and I took it all, not a single drop spilled! This should be very easy on the tummy.
I'm still a bit subdued, but that is probably from the anesthesia. Sticking close to mom, she is very comforting.
Ok, it's the beginning of March 2008 and it's 60 degrees today and will be 65 degrees tomorrow. Has the world's weather turned upside down? Where is the snow mom promised we'd see? Everyone's outside wearing shorts! Pennsylvania in March sure isn't what it used to be!
Time for my 3rd nap of the morning.
love to all,
Hazel Lucy

Hazel Throws Up and It's Clavamox's Fault!

Ooooh, my tummy hurts! I took the Clavamox in a pill pocket and then ate a little. A few hours later mom heard an awful sound and saw me throw up 3 piles of vomit. Ugh. I don't feel good. Mom says no more medicine and she will call the vet tomorrow morning. He gave mom these pills after he cleaned my toofies on Friday. I've never really been sick, not since mom found me, except when I was diagnosed with diabetes (which is easily managed, luckily). Mom's keeping a close watch on me. Buddie's mom said to tell the vet no more Clavamox ever, use something else. I know I'll feel better after a long nap....
Hazel Lucy

Today is Mercy's 7th Birthday and Ash Grimalkins' 17th- Birthday!

Can you believe it!
Today, March 1st, is the birthday of our fabulous *Mercedes (Mercy)*
She's the oldest of the gang that includes 2 big doggies and 10 cats, including beloved Milo who is an angel now.
You would never know that Mercy is 7, she is the most playful and extroverted of the bunch! And not only that, her page is pawsome!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MERCY!!!

AND,
Today is also the birthday of famous *Ashley Grimalkins *
who has been on the get well purr list since he was 15!
Ash has CRF (chronic renal failure) and has been brave through it all.
Now Ash is 17! We love Ash and his Grimalkin power!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASHLEY GRIMALKINS!!!

I'm Home With Clean Toofies!

I'm home! I'm home!
My teeth are pearly white and in good condition.
Mom paid the ransom and brought me home!
Dr. Reggie pronounced me "very healthy" and said I was a good patient.
I have an antibiotic to take for 7 days.
Mom never heard such meowing, let me tell you, I am ravenously hungry after not eating for 20 hours.
I'm home and I'm happy!
Thanks to all of you for caring and purring and sending beautiful rosettes and kind words. Now mom and I are going to cuddle the rest of the night!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Waking Up With Clean Teeth!

I'm just waking up after having my teeth cleaned. Dr. Reggie said everything went fine, no extractions. Mom will come and get me later. They gave me an antibiotic that mom can put in my food. Thank you all for purring for me (and mom), she was a little nervous but the trip to Target helped her a lot!
Talk to ya later, I have to finish my nap....
love,
Hazel Lucy

Hazel Gets Her Teeth Cleaned Today!

Hi Everycat!
Mom dropped me off a little after 8 a.m., and the vet will call later. I've had my teeth cleaned twice before but it's been years. Mom feels very peaceful, she knows all your purrs did the trick. Me? I'm sleeping right now while they clean my pearly whites! Mom left my favorite Tranquility blanket with me for comfort. It's the one from the Left side of the bed. There is also one on the Right side of the bed, mom has some space in the middle!
She promptly went to Target to indulge herself!
I'm going to finish my sleep, already I have been visited by my wonderful angel furhusband Buddie, his sister McKenna, and Rufus (an angel now). How lucky I am! Well, mom will write more after the vet calls.
love,
sleeping Hazel Lucy

Having My Teeth Cleaned Tomorrow, Friday!

I had my teeth cleaned a few years ago, and wouldn't you know, the dentist kept two of them!
Now it's time for cleaning again. Mom's a bit nervous because anesthesia is always a risk. After all, I'm 10 years young. I won't have any food or water after 9 p.m. tonight, which means we'll both probably be up all night. I go in at 8:30 in the morning and mom will pick me up around dinnertime. She'll give me a worn t-shirt so I have something with her scent on it to comfort me.
We'd appreciate a few purrs so that all goes well.
Thank you!
love,
Hazel Lucy

Big Snow Day in Pennsylvania

Fellow Catsters,
It is with great joy I announce that is is SNOWING here!
It's a blustery 25 degrees and the white stuff is finally accumulating. This is what Christmas should look like! Schools will have snow days, people will stay home from the office, children will sled and skate! We like living where there are 4 seasons. No matter the weather, I am warm and toasty on my Tranquility Blanket . Well, I should qualify that. I get the early test blankets. They are everywhere in the apartment, on the bed, on the floor, on chairs. Lucky me! I test and approve each one that is sent out.

I can't believe all the love matches in catsterland!
Everycat is courting or is engaged or just married! PAWSOME! I can't keep up with all the romance here, it's everywhere you look! Even kittens are getting into the act.

Ok, so at 5 a.m., I wrote a diary, back to sleep for me!
When I wake up there will be 4 inches of snow on the ground! Not much by northern standards, but pretty darn good!

Happy Valentine's Day Catsterland!

Today, February 14th, is the anniversary of Buddie's proposal of marriage to me. That was 3 years ago! Catsterland had about 4,000 cats then, a small group by comparison to today's ginormous community. I want to thank all of you wonderful felines for your friendship, purrs, and gifts over the years.

We are very grateful and know that Catster is still growing and evolving. It's also a time for everycat to read the Community Guidelines and abide by them so that we don't lose any more wonderful cats due to the bad behavior of a few.
Now, where are my treats!

Mr D is still missing

O dear O dear what can the matter be?
This kitty is missing and his family is bereft.
Mr D is only 2 years of age! Many have put his picture on their pages and are frantically purring in hopes of bringing him safely home. If ever purrs are needed, it's when one of us goes missing. We can purr him home!

The Baby Shower for Gibbs & Cash Was A Huge Success!

Oh my Catness!!!!
The Baby Shower for Victor Gibbs and Jason Cash was a ginormous success! The Baby Shower Group had 407 Catsters in it! WOWZA!
* Donations totaled enough to send some gifts to Gibbs and Cash, plus buy supplies for the shelter that took in Cash and his siblings. Friends of the Shelter (FOSS) benefitted to the tune of $800 worth of medicine, food and toys, thanks to so many generous Catsters.
* Cash & Gibbs Baby Shower" went on for hours and hours! They opened 16 boxes! There were beautiful decorations provided by Gimme and cookies for mom and dad (kisskiss) to munch. A good time was had by all!

Victor Gibbs and Jason Cash Pages are Live!

Buddie and McKenna have done well as angels watching over their mom and daddy (kisskiss). They sent two miracle cats to live in their home. Please meet and welcome Victor Gibbs and Jason Cash. Be sure and read their diaries. What a beautiful catsterday this is! I am soooo excited about being their Big Sister!
happy Hazel Lucy

New Paws Running Around Buddie's Home!

OMC! OMC! STOP THE PRESSES!
First, I have been oh so remiss. Buddie 's tenure as COTW is almost up and I said nary a word. You know what it means, friends, it is THE honor. He has done very well, by all of us, and especially by his mom and daddy (kisskiss). Because of Buddie, I see kisskiss all over catsterland! What a great legacy!

Well, now for the important NEWS!
Buddie and McKenna saw how sad and lonely their parents were, so they put their heads together and sent a new little life to them. His name is Victor and he sorely needed a home. He was living outside. Turns out Victor is very loving and affectionate, just what the folks needed to begin to heal their heartache. Victor is white with an orange striped tail and a few orange spots on him. One of those spots is a ginormous Heart! It's heaven's way of telling them he was sent by the angels!
Victor does not have a Catster page yet, but will in time. I know that you all join me in wishing Victor, his mom, and his daddy (kisskiss) a very happy year!

The Get Well Purr List is One Year Old!

December 26th is the One Year Anniversary of the *Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread*. The List (on Page One of the thread) is for sick Cats. There are a few doggies on the List too. I can't believe it's been a whole entire year! All of you wonderful purring Catsters worked so hard all year long, sending purrs and love and treats, rosettes, stars and encouraging and sympathetic pmails. There are two main goals for the thread. First, to have as many cats as possible purring for our sick friends to get well. Second, to let everycat know how much we care. Every life affects every other life. The support, advice, concern, and sympathy shown over the year means so very much to the families. All lives are cherished in catsterland. We're all connected. Some months are much tougher than others, but through it all, a growing number of Catsters purr loud and long to help others. So I thank you for your unwavering support of this thread, without you it would mean nothing. We've been through a lot and we know there will always be sick ones who recover and those who cross the bridge! A pat on the back, a hug, a chin rub, and my humble thanks to all of you!

I am humbled by the outpouring of love shown to me and to my angel furhusband Buddie by having our pictures together. It's been a month of many tears. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You really know how to make us feel special.
Gratefully yours,
Hazel Lucy

Link for the Old Home Page!

Here it is, the Home Page we love!
"CLASSIC HOME PAGE"
Remember Coke Classic? Remember the New Coke?
Same deal here.

Thank you....

It has been impossible to write about losing Buddie and McKenna. Our moms are friends and the heartache is raw. Thanks to all who left stars, Rosettes, Special Gifts, Shouts, pmails and emails. I cannot yet bear to read them again and respond. I've been able to keep up the get well purr list, but to think of my Buddie and his family is beyond my capacity at present. I hope you all understand. Catsterland has been a source of unconditional support, caring, and offers of help. Catsters make the finest friends, the finest community.
I hope to be able to write soon from joy and not pain.
Thank you,
Hazel Lucy

Sweet Wally crossed the Bridge

So many new angels, and tonight my dear friend Wally crossed the bridge. Wally was good and kind and caring and generous. He is now with his sister Sydney Rose who became a most beautiful angel just five weeks ago. I am certain Wally will make a marvelous angel. Right now, his mom needs all the purrs, prayers, and comfort we can offer. How many tears can a body hold?
I will always love you, my good friend Wally.
My sincere condolences to his soulmate Sophie, who is bereft. Their love was one that shone throughout catsterland. Her sorrow is deep at the loss of her true love. But we know that love endures between heaven and earth.
Please keep Wally's brother Alfie in your purrs. Alfie is now an only kitty and is very upset without Wally and Sydney Rose.
Here is the Memorial Thread for Wally.
Here is the link to Light a Candle for Wally
love,
Hazel Lucy

For Buddie and McKenna

A Catster asked about donating to a shelter in honor of Buddie and McKenna, who now reside in heaven. Their mom and dad (kisskiss) would be very happy if you want to donate to your local shelter or to Best Friends Animal Society. They are going to be ok with your help. Your continuing prayers and good wishes are helping them get through each hour. Thank you, Catsters, for such a beautiful outpouring of love and sympathy.
Hazel Lucy

Catsterland at it's Finest

Hello friends,
Thank you for the beautiful tributes, notes, stars, rosettes, special gifts, and shouts of sympathy and caring. You honor Buddie and McKenna with your sympathy and support for their grieving mom and dad. This is Catsterland at its finest. Their pain is immense, deep, and desolate, but knowing such overwhelming compassion is making a difference. They are amazed and grateful. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Hazel Lucy
Buddie's furwife

Beautiful McKenna has gone to Heaven

Can my heart take another hit? No!
Sweet Elise McKenna has gone to heaven, just days after her brother Buddie. It's too much all at once. I have unlocked my photos if you wish to copy the one of McKenna. I can write no more now.
tears of mourning,
Hazel Lucy

Buddie (my furhusband) went to Heaven

My handsome orange furhusband Buddie is in Heaven now, having crossed the bridge earlier today. He went downhill so quickly. Buddie won't have to endure kidney disease or other nasty illness anymore. I don't know what else to say, please pray for his mom and dad. They are absolutely devastated. I am grateful for our two years of marriage, as we were the first Catster wedding. Buddie knew how to have a good time. He was extremely generous and kind, lending out his jet, giving out gang-healing Rosettes, and helping out any way he could. While his singing voice left a little something to be desired, he gave it his all. He cared about his friends, his family, and McKenna, yes - he did love his little sister in his own way. Buddie is now free from the ravages of illness, and for that I'm grateful. Right now I feel so very alone, though I know the family that is Catster is surrounding me. I know Buddie is confident that your thoughts will help his mom and dad in this tough time. Mom said holidays are bittersweet....
Hazel Lucy

Secret Zealies and My Annual Checkup!

Holy Catnip! Somecat, a very generous and wonderful cat, gave me gobs of zealies! I was stunned when I noticed the number! Thank you, and please, will you tell me who you are? What a nice gift, thank you, thank you!

Now, the day before Thanksgiving mom dragged me to the vet. Literally.
I'm a healthy, happy, hefty girl. I suffered the indignity of taking my temperature, and it took a while to get the blood for the test. Mom buried her head in her hands, saying it hurt her more than me. What planet is she on? My ears are clean, my teeth are ok and so is everything else. I weigh a bit more than last time, but that's ok too, according to Dr. Reggie. In a few days the results of the Fructosamine test will be in, that's to check how I'm doing on the insulin dose. Mom and the vet agree that if I can eat some raw, the need for the insulin shots decreases. We'll try raw again. Paws crossed.

I've been testing and approving everything in sight! The other night I tested some Snuggle (shelter) blankets. You know how special they are. Boomerang Boots (aka Leggs) has a Tranquility Blanket, and you saw how quickly he was adopted! Diego's mom made sure he had his own when he went to the shelter (where she also volunteers).

I slept through most of Thanksgiving and mom was thankful all day. I think she was just thankful that there is pumpkin pie in the house!
hugs to everycat,
Hazel Lucy

I Give Thanks For....

Hello fellow Catsters,
Once again, it's the time of year to think about our many blessings.
I am thankful for my mom, who tends to my every need, and who crochets to fill the needs of others, especially kitties in shelters. I'm thankful to be married to Buddie, who is orange and kind and the purrfect mate. We're especially thankful for all your purrs and prayers for his health. I'm thankful for the success of the Get Well Purr List, the Catsters in Need of Serious Purring thread, because we all know illness first or second hand, and it's nice to know we're not alone with our fears, worries, vet opinions, and crossings. I'm thankful for Ted creating Dogster and Catster, a place where we can play, have fun, connect, do good things, and be our fluffy selves!
So no matter our situations, I just know we can find things worthy of our thanks. I hope every Catster has a wonderful, food and treat-filled, warm and cozy Thanksgiving!
And ginormous hugs for everycat,
Hazel Lucy

My handsome furhusband Buddie is sick

Oh deer oh deer,
I am wringing my paws with worry. My one and only darling furhusband * Buddie. * is sick and I can do nothing but tell him I love him. I know you are out there purring for Buddie and all the othercats who need purrs. My heart says Buddie is fine, I refuse to accept what the vet says. I love my Buddie and will be with him always. Thank you for your purrs and prayers for Buddie and his parents. And sis McKenna too.
humbly,
Hazel Lucy
worried furwife

Giving Thanks!

Mom has been slow on writing diary entries. I begged her to help me give thanks:
For the beautiful colored star - Biscuit and Family.
For the delicious pies - Griffin, my kittygodmom Simba, and Oly.
For the roasted turkeys - Toffy and Vanessa, Toulouse Jr., and Waverly.
For the big cheese - anonymous, but I think it's our main Packers cheerleader!
For the big yarn - Alex Finnegan, and our new angel Smudge O'Rourke.
For the big champagne - Ducky.
For the big award cups - Wally and family, Simba the Great.
And finally, for the beautiful ring, my handsome orange furhusband Buddie!
You all make me feel loved, I can never thank you enough!