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<channel>
<title>Lucy Chatter</title>
<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter</link>
<description>Catster diary for the cat Lucy</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2009 by Lucy &amp; Catster</copyright>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 06:23:30 PST</pubDate>
<generator>Catster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.catster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>Caught on Video!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/637841</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:26:34 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/637841</guid>
		<description>I have more video evidence of what an amazing big kitty sister I am! This *video* will show you some ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have more video evidence of what an amazing big kitty sister I am! This <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000247/playtime_with_lucy_sophie_and_the_boys">*video*</a></b> will show you some of what I have to put up with from the boykittens in my life and how I handle it all with grace. 

And I'm not afraid to use the smacky paw for a little pork choppin'!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Being a Good Big Sister *snickers*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/636457</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:51:17 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/636457</guid>
		<description>My angel sister Sally taught me how to open the bifold laundry room doors. I put my paw underneath t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My angel sister Sally taught me how to open the bifold laundry room doors. I put my paw underneath the door and pull until it *pops* open! I don't really go into the laundry room, I just like to open the door. I used to do it a lot but the last couple of years I lost interest in it.

The kittens are VERY interested in the laundry room and more than once Mommy has had to lure Charlie out from behind the big machines with treats and toys. She's afraid he'll get stuck back there and get hurt. Luckily Leo still hasn't figured out how to find his way back there but he's trying. 

So, being the incredibly thoughtful big sister that I am, I decided that it's my duty to teach the boys how to open the laundry room door. EVERY time that I walk by it (at least 20 times per day), I stop, place my paw under the door, and *pop* it open. And the kittens come running. And Mommy tells me "No!" MOL!

The kittens, being somewhat dim little boycats (all brawn, short on brains) STILL haven't caught on to my teachings. But I'm not giving up! Somedays it seems like all I've got with these boys is time......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Mom has moved the laundry basket in front of the laundry door in an effort to thwart my important sisterly teachings. As if that'll stop me!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tribute to Catster Supermodel Lola</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/635910</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:32:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/635910</guid>
		<description>Beautiful good girl *Lola* made her journey to the bridge today. We were so sad to hear this news as ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Beautiful good girl <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/970373">*Lola*</a></b> made her journey to the bridge today. We were so sad to hear this news as we had all been purring so hard for Lola to feel better.  

In addition to being the definition of a good girl, Lola's beauty lit up Catster. In fact, I think of her as a Catster supermodel. Photos of this gorgeous supermodel were featured in a recent Catster Newsletter, in the Vet Blog, AND in the Cat's Meow! Lola is captivating in her beauty and personality (check out her videos to see her kung-fu moves and flying leaps!). No shelf was too high, no ledge was too narrow. This brave and beautiful good girl truly knew love in the time she was with her forever family.

We love you, Lola. Sending purrs of comfort to your loving family.


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy and family</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Lovebugs have teeth</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/634223</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Nov 2009 16:25:02 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/634223</guid>
		<description>Things have definitely settled down at my house. Leo is doing really well and he's almost fully reco ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Things have definitely settled down at my house. Leo is doing really well and he's almost fully recovered. Charlie is Charlie- he's a little crazy! Sophie's looking good and her incision site has completely healed. She's busy growing her fur back and I'm busy grooming it! : )

I'm doing really well, too. It's not a great time of year for my allergies but my medication seems to be helping. I still get lesions on my head but they go away really quickly. I purr that the medication I take, Atopica, will soon be approved for cats (right now it's just for dogs) so that other cats with severe allergies can benefit from it!

As far as being a big sister, I'm still a little hissy with the boys. Especially Leo. But the hissiness is not as bad as it was a month or so ago. Leo and I do have special time together every day- I groom his face, head, and neck with serious intensity. Then he grooms my face and head and neck. I love it! But then Leo ALWAYS ends up chewing on my ears or my neck. I don't love that. As far as I'm concerned, that means our love fest is over for the day! He may be a lovebug but he's a lovebug with teeth!!!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Thanks to my friends, especially Apollo and Emily Felicity, for defending my honor! You were both totally right- I'm not a "Grumpster" and instead of calling me names, mom should be giving me extra loving!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Calling all East Coast Catster friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/633115</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 4 Nov 2009 17:31:15 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/633115</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties! 

Today the lovely *Hazel Lucy* wrote about two special kitties in need of forever hom ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties! 

Today the lovely <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/64639">*Hazel Lucy*</a></b> wrote about two special kitties in need of forever homes. Both kitties are tugging on my heart strings!

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=12569956">*Pierre*</a></b>, a gorgeous flame-point Himalayan, was turned into the rescue because his family had a baby (grumbles about that). The rescue realized poor Pierre was sick with untreated diabetes. They have provided care and he is doing much better (see HL's diary about his diabetes) but his past health concerns seem to be scaring potential adopters away. 

According to a poster in the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/forums/Shelters_Rescue_and_Fostering/thread/646365">*Rescue Forums*</a></b> , Pierre has been in the shelter for 2 YEARS waiting for a loving family. That is too long! Check out his <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=12569956">*Petfinder Page*</a></b>: the video of him playing is so adorable. He's in the Annapolis area; are there any Catsters that can help this little guy?

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=14176879">*Joy*</a></b> is an 11 year old beauty (love the nose smudge!) whose loving parent passed away. Sadly, Joy is now at the same rescue as Pierre in Annapolis, MD, hoping for a second chance at a forever family. 

I know there are so many kitties in need of loving forever homes. Purrs that Pierre and Joy find their special homes soon.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My dear friends need purrs!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/632839</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 3 Nov 2009 14:09:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/632839</guid>
		<description>My dear friend *Chloe* is in need of purrs. She is very ill and today it was determined that she is  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My dear friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">*Chloe*</a></b> is in need of purrs. She is very ill and today it was determined that she is in complete renal failure. Her loving mother is heartbroken and devastated. Please join me in purring for her. We love you Chloe! 

Another dear friend, <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/552314">*Sweets*</a></b>, is also in need of purrs. Tomorrow she will be hospitalized for surgery to remove large bladder stones. Please join me in purring for Sweets, too.

I love you both (and your mommies and families) and we are all purring for you! And believe me, these little boys can PURR!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>8!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/632353</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Nov 2009 11:36:30 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/632353</guid>
		<description>Thanks to Catster's email, a party hat from Samoa, and a cupcake from Mercy, I realized that today i ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to Catster's email, a party hat from <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038">Samoa</a></b>, and a cupcake from <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/56398">Mercy</a></b>, I realized that today is my estimated birthday! Samoa and Mercy sure have the inside scoop, even my mommy forgot that she had designated November 1st as my birthday!

I'm 8 today! I expect lots of loving and special, yummy foods today to celebrate. I expect the boys to leave me alone unless I feel like playing; in that case, they MUST play with me exactly how I want them to! Hmmm, what else do I want for my birthday? Maybe a catnip party! 

Oh, and for my birthday wish, world peace for all creatures, big and small, furry and non-furry!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Grumpster?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/631708</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:21:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/631708</guid>
		<description>Leo's made an almost full recovery. He still takes his prednisolone every night and he is doing amaz ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Leo's made an almost full recovery. He still takes his prednisolone every night and he is doing amazingly well. I, however, have not made a full recovery yet. The mental trauma of living with a fluffy kitten that walks around with his bottom high in the air and his tail fully extended and all floofy continues to bother me. I'm just not over it yet.

I hiss at Leo. I smack him. I hiss at Charlie. I smack him. I sometimes even snap at them as if I'm going to bite. They are both a little weary of me. When Leo sees me, he immediately turns and walks in another direction (most of the time). Smart kitten. 

Sometimes I like to confuse everyone by inviting the kittens to play. I'll play for a minute or two and then start hissing. Sometimes I bathe Leo and cuddle with him and love him. But before long, it's back to hissing and smacking. Being a big sister is a lot of work.

Mom has given me a new nickname. She's started calling me "Grumpster." And of course, variations of that such as Grumpy, Grumps, and even Grumpy Grumpster. She'll look over at me and say, "How's it going, Grumpster?" As if that's going to help the situation!

Now that the weather is getting cooler here, mom has high hopes that I will start snuggling and participating in kitty fur piles with the boys. We'll see.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>For all who have loved ~ A tribute to Calvin</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/630951</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:36:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/630951</guid>
		<description>My heart is heavy with the news that gorgeous green-eyed orangie Calvin made his journey to the brid ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My heart is heavy with the news that gorgeous green-eyed orangie <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283044/photo/4708467">Calvin</a></b> made his journey to the bridge today. The following was given to me by Dogster's <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/543515">Ellie and Helga</a> after our sweet Sally passed to the bridge and I hope it touches all who read it in the same special way it touched me.


If you ever love an animal, there are three days in your life you will always remember . . . 

The first is a day, blessed with happiness, when you bring home your young new friend. You may have spent weeks deciding on a breed. You may have asked numerous opinions of many vets, or done long research in finding a breeder. Or, perhaps in a fleeting moment, you may have just chosen that silly looking mutt in a shelter -- simply because something in its eyes reached your heart. But when you bring that chosen pet home, and watch it explore, and claim its special place in your hall or front room -- and when you feel it brush against you for the first time -- it instills a feeling of pure love you will carry with you through the many years to come. 

The second day will occur eight or nine or ten years later. It will be a day like any other. Routine and unexceptional. But, for a surprising instant, you will look at your longtime friend and see age where you once saw youth. You will see slow deliberate steps where you once saw energy. And you will see sleep when you once saw activity. So you will begin to adjust your friend's diet -- and you may add a pill or two to her food. And you may feel a growing fear deep within yourself, which bodes of a coming emptiness. And you will feel this uneasy feeling, on and off, until the third day finally arrives. 

And on this day -- if your friend and whatever higher being you believe in have not decided for you, then you will be faced with making a decision of your own -- on behalf of your lifelong friend, and with the guidance of your own deepest Spirit. But whichever way your friend eventually leaves you -- you will feel as alone as a single star in the dark night. 

If you are wise, you will let the tears flow as freely and as often as they must. And if you are typical, you will find that not many in your circle of family or friends will be able to understand your grief, or comfort you. 

But if you are true to the love of the pet you cherished through the many joy-filled years, you may find that a soul -- a bit smaller in size than your own -- seems to walk with you, at times, during the lonely days to come. 

And at moments when you least expect anything out of the ordinary to happen, you may feel something brush against your leg -- very, very lightly. 

And looking down at the place where your dear, perhaps dearest, friend used to lie -- you will remember those three significant days. The memory will most likely be painful, and leave an ache in your heart. 

As time passes the ache will come and go as if it has a life of its own. You will both reject it and embrace it, and it may confuse you. If you reject it, it will depress you. If you embrace it, it will deepen you. Either way, it will still be an ache. 

But there will be, I assure you, a fourth day when -- along with the memory of your pet -- and piercing through the heaviness in your heart -- there will come a realization that belongs only to you. It will be as unique and strong as our relationship with each animal we have loved, and lost. This realization takes the form of a Living Love -- like the heavenly scent of a rose that remains after the petals have wilted, this Love will remain and grow -- and be there for us to remember. It is a love we have earned. It is the legacy our pets leave us when they go. And it is a gift we may keep with us as long as we live. It is a Love which is ours alone. And until we ourselves leave, perhaps to join our Beloved Pets -- it is a Love we will always possess. 

Martin Scot Kosins


Knead on Calvin......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Would somecat please tell the vacuum monster that I'm a DDP?!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/630655</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 25 Oct 2009 17:17:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/630655</guid>
		<description>What a lovely Sunday! I woke up to find out I'm a Daily Diary Pick along with two of my favorite Cat ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What a lovely Sunday! I woke up to find out I'm a Daily Diary Pick along with two of my favorite Catster friends, handsome orangie King  <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283044">*Calvin*</a></b> and gorgeous panther <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/797385">*Aldo*</a></b>! Concats to all the other Daily Diary Picks and thank you to HQ and the Diary Gal!!! And thank you to my dear friends who commented on my diary, sent lovely rosettes and gifts, and pmailed concats! I love you all!

Unfortunately, the vacuum monster didn't get the memo about my honor. He chased me all over the house today, despite my pleading meows and reminders that it's MY special DDP day and he should take the day off! He just didn't listen. But he seems to finally be full and tired, taking a rest for the evening. I'm going to continue to celebrate to today with a yummy dinner of Tiki and some play and smacky-pawed pork chops to the kittens! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The biggest kitty in the world?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/629578</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:25:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/629578</guid>
		<description>I have good news ~ Sophie's biopsy came back benign! She also got her stitches out and she no longer ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have good news ~ Sophie's biopsy came back benign! She also got her stitches out and she no longer looks like the furry bride of Frankenstein! That will NOT be her halloween costume!

When Sophie and mommy arrived at the ER vet to get the stitches taken out, there was a family on the sidewalk walking by the clinic. There were two little girls, about 4 years old. When they saw Sophie, their eyes got really big and one little girl exclaimed, "Look at that BIG kitty!" MOL! A 60 lb kitty!

When mommy and Sophie were leaving the clinic, another family was arriving. The mother said to her two little boys, "Let's go see how our doggie is doing." One of the little boys looked over at Sophie and said, "Is that our doggie?!" 

Um, let me answer that for you little boy.... "NO! That's MY doggie!"

MOL! Kids!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Big Sister Meows</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/629273</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:16:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/629273</guid>
		<description>Thank you to all my friends who expressed sympathy in regards to my treatment in the kittens' * Catn ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank you to all my friends who expressed sympathy in regards to my treatment in the kittens' <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000247/helloooo_catnip">* Catnip Video *</a></b>. Don't worry about me, I'll keep those kittens in line!

In other news, I'm entered into the World's Coolest Contest! One photo shows me keeping Leo in line with my big sister paw! And another photo shows me taking an innocent nap. On what planet does that qualify for "Naughtiest" ?! Check out my entries and please <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/show09/vote_pet.php?i=310190">* Vote for Me! *</a></b>

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. If you are feeling especially generous, feel free to vote for the little pipsqueaks in my life: <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/show09/vote_pet.php?i=1000246">* Charlie *</a></b> and <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/show09/vote_pet.php?i=1000247">* Leo *</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Unacceptable!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/628774</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 17 Oct 2009 20:06:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/628774</guid>
		<description>Today was a day filled with catnip and catnaps. It should have been a fantastic day! But if you watc ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was a day filled with catnip and catnaps. It should have been a fantastic day! But if you watch this <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000247/helloooo_catnip">* video *</a></b>, you'll see why I'm a little irritated. Somekitten ambushed me while I was trying to enjoy a little nip! Unacceptable.


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Cuddles and a Sophie update</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/626665</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Oct 2009 18:34:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/626665</guid>
		<description>Sophie is definitely perking up this evening. She's on a lot of pain medication so she's a little lo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sophie is definitely perking up this evening. She's on a lot of pain medication so she's a little loopy but the effects of the anesthesia are finally wearing off. Mom even took her on a short walk this evening to get her legs moving and give her some fresh air. It was a sloooow walk but she seemed to enjoy it! Thanks for all of the sweet comments and purrs for our sweet Sophie.

In other news, I've been having issues with Leo since he got sick. I hiss at him when he walks within 5 feet of me, probably because he is walking with a puffed out, floofy tail and it totally freaks me out. Tonight, mom was checking in on all of us as we were all very quiet. She found me, cuddled next to Leo in a kitty bed built for one. Leo's fur was all wet and crazy because I'd given him a serious bathing. It was definitely an "Awww, so cute!" moment for mom. She got out the camera and got two awful photos (Leo with one eye closed, Leo looking away from the camera) before I quickly vacated the kitty bed.

I don't like my brother-loving documented! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Sophie</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/626490</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Oct 2009 03:24:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/626490</guid>
		<description>It's 3 am and Mom just got home from the ER hospital with our doggie Sophie. They were there all nig ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's 3 am and Mom just got home from the ER hospital with our doggie <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a></b>. They were there all night. Sophie is an aussie shepherd mix and she is between 14 and 15 years old. That's pretty old for a 60 lb dog. The vet estimates she is about 100 years old in people-years (whatever the heck that means!). 

She's our sweet doggie. She loves kitties and is amazingly tolerant of kitten antics, too. She's been very healthy with just normal aging issues (going blind, arthritis). She has had a growth/benign tumor on her check/neck area for about 6 years. Because it was benign and it never seemed to bother her, the vet and mom chose to leave it alone. 

Tonight, when mom was petting Sophie, she felt something unusual on Sophie's check. Upon further inspection, she realized that the growth had ruptured. It was about 9 pm so Mom took Sophie to the ER hospital to have it cleaned and get some antibiotics. Unfortunately, once at the vet it was discovered that Sophie had a fever, too. Sophie had bloodwork done, too, and it came back with concerning numbers (very high calcium which indicates possible cancer or thyroid problems, elevated kidney levels).  Fortunately, the urine analysis showed that Sophie's urine was concentrated, not diluted, which made the vet very happy as he was worried she might be in kidney failure.

It was a long night with a lot of decisions and lots of mommy hand-wringing. Ultimately, the vet removed the ruptured tumor and sent it in for biopsy. They also gave Sophie fluids and waited until her temperature went down. 

Mommy chose to bring Sophie home tonight. She's pretty out of it and has a shaved face and lots of stitches. She has not fully recovered from the anesthesia and it looks to be a long night for her. It was very difficult to get her in and out of the car but she's home now, resting. I missed her like crazy. She's my buddy and I was really worried about her. The kittens keep slowly creeping up to her and sniffing her.

It is not her time to go to the bridge. Mom and the vet agreed that it's not even close to that time. But, as anyone with older, "geriatric" animals knows, it's a hard place to be when medical tests and blood tests are starting to point down that road. Sophie and Mom have been together a long time; Mom adopted Sophie from the Humane Society when Mom was only 19 and Sophie was about 1. College, roommates, boyfriends, graduate school, work; Sophie's been with Mom through it all. It's also hard because we are only two weeks past Leo's sudden neurological problems.

Sophie should recover from all of this and we are not going to worry about her blood test results unless she starts showing other symptoms. At this point, she's still eating, drinking, playing, and has not had any weight loss. If you want to see sweet Sophie in action, check out the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000246/feisty_charlie_wants_sophies_treats">* video *</a></b> of Charlie stealing her treats. She really is the sweetest dog in the world!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Fluffy-tailed freak or my brother?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/625976</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 5 Oct 2009 22:05:07 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/625976</guid>
		<description>I'm okay with Leo as long as he doesn't move. When he's sleeping or lying down, I actually kind of l ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm okay with Leo as long as he doesn't move. When he's sleeping or lying down, I actually kind of like him. I bathe him and love on him. I used to like to play and wrestle with him, too, but not any more. When he stands, walks, or runs, he holds his tail straight up in the air and all FLOOFY! It totally freaks me out!

Yeah, yeah, he's got some kind of condition called peripheral neuropathy and everyone loves him and is purring for him. He's a sweet little lovebug who likes to cuddle with mommy and purr and knead. I totally appreciate that......but......if you kitties had to actually live with him, I'm telling you, you would be freaked out by his crazy-tailed walk, too! 

I'm trying to get over it but it's really hard! His tail is just so FLUFFY and FLOOFY!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. I did wrestle with him a little last night! Just a little, but it's a start!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Totally Unfair</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/624350</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:23:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/624350</guid>
		<description>Leo is getting better! Unfortunately, he's still walking and running like a drunk jackrabbit, long c ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Leo is getting better! Unfortunately, he's still walking and running like a drunk jackrabbit, long crazy legs flying in every direction. He runs into stuff, too. Walls, Mommy, beautiful kitty sisters. When I see him coming, I go nuts! Hissing and spitting and smacking! Stay away from me! No crazy jackrabbits allowed!

He and Sophie are a complete disaster when in the same room. My poor doggie is close to 15 and is going blind and deaf and she has arthritis so her reflexes aren't so great. Well, she can't really see Mr. Fluffypants when he's sprawled out in the hallway. And Leo's reflexes aren't any good right now, either! It's a disaster! Mommy's doing a lot of rescuing!

Mommy went back to work today. Leo got stuck in a bedroom. Charlie kept playing pawsies under the door with him. Well, I've been irritated with both brothers lately so I was giving Leo massive smacky paws under the door and then charging after Charlie with more smacky paws and hissing and growls. 

Next thing I know, Mommy scoops me up and sticks me in the other bedroom! Sure, she got me some food and water and I had a litter box, a kitty condo, and a big window and bed, but why was I the one stuck in a room?

As Hilda pointed out in Leo's diary, what kind of world do I live in where crazy kitten CHARLIE has the run of the house?! Totally unfair and, well, kinda scary. He's crazy!

Poor poor Sophie, stuck down stairs with him all day......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Leo's doing better!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/624073</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 27 Sep 2009 15:47:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/624073</guid>
		<description>Little Leo is doing really well! His tail and bottom are not as stiff/up in the air today compared t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Little Leo is doing really well! His tail and bottom are not as stiff/up in the air today compared to yesterday and he's starting to try and run after things- he kind of looks like a super ungraceful jackrabbit, all legs and feet. It's pretty cute. He's eating and drinking and taking his medicine and fighting his illness! I'm a proud big sister (and sometimes irritated with him, too. He still smells kinda funny and a bit like the v-e-t).

Leo has been diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Disease. What is an Immune-Mediated Disease? Here's some info from his diary:

 It seems to be a somewhat generic term for many different conditions in which an organ or system within the body attacks itself. It can happen to the blood, the nerves, the joints, any organ and any system in the body. 

No one is sure exactly why this happens. According to Dogster <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/504880">Angel Mica- The Wonderpup: </a></b>

"Some believe that {immune-mediated disease} may be caused by an exposure to toxins, from cancer, an infection or even vaccines. Bee/wasp stings & tick-borne diseases (TBD) have also been implicated, as has the ingestion of ONIONS, GARLIC or PENNIES, or owner administration of Vitamin K and acetaminophen. It may be deemed IDIOPATHIC [id E-oh path ick] (no known cause) like Mica's, which is MOST often the case." 

Even though Leo's vaccinations were given 4 months ago, it's possible that the vaccinations somehow triggered this condition, according to his neurologist. Unfortunately, we will never know for sure what caused or triggered his condition in which the electrical messages from his brain to the nerves in all four of of limbs stopped working. It's still hard for us to understand how Leo could go from a normal, healthy kitten to a kitten who couldn't jump to a kitten who couldn't stand, walk, or pass a bowel movement in the span of 6 days. 

Thank you to the doggies and kitties (and parents) who have given my mommy information on your own experience with immune-mediated disease. An extra big thank you and hugs to beloved <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/56446">Milo</a></b> and his mom for their support and information on immune-mediated disease.

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/504880">Angel Mica- The Wonderpup</a></b> is a tireless advocate for research on immune-mediated disease and even has a HQ approved fundraiser to raise money for research. Angel Mica had two immune-mediated diseases that affected her blood, IMHA & IMTP: Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia & Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia and her onset was sudden (less than 24 hours) and sadly, fatal.

Our doggie Sophie has been friends with Angel Mica for many years and we knew a bit about the condition that Mica had. We never dreamed that it would touch our family in any way. Thank you to Angel Mica and family for all the work they have done in raising money for research into immune-mediated diseases. She's a pretty cool doggie so if you have a chance, go check out her page!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Today is a better day!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/623614</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:33:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/623614</guid>
		<description>Well my goodness, we've had quite the unexpected week! It's been an absolute emotional roller coaste ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well my goodness, we've had quite the unexpected week! It's been an absolute emotional roller coaster, all starting last Friday. Even yesterday, when we got such great news from the neurologist, we were so happy! And then when little Leo came home last night, he was really sick and we were so scared. 

I know that so many of our Catster friends have been on this roller coaster with us (and are still on it with us as we focus on recovery). We couldn't be more thankful for the support (mom hopes to respond to every rosette, gift, pmail, and comment individually now that her brain is a little less mushy! MOL!). There have been so many wonderful friends and groups of Catsters purring for Leo and we truly believe that is making a huge difference! Did you know that the most fantastic group on Catster, the Olde Furts, made Leo an honorary member so that we could access their helpful forums on feeding, giving pills, etc.?!?! 

Also, just having an outlet to write about what's going on in our Catster diaries has been so helpful in processing this sudden and scary and now hopeful event. Thanks for reading and commenting!
Leo's illness is actually documented in his Catster diary from the first day he started having problems, before we had any idea how serious his condition was- what a helpful record of how this presented.

Although last night was rough, today is a better day. Leo ate twice today, all on his own, and has used the litterbox. He is working hard to be mobile; walking/hobbling up to 10 feet at a time. The neurologist said to let him go at his own pace and let him tell us what he can and cannot do; that's what we are trying to do. Although I have hissed at him today, Charlie and I are both giving him space. Charlie did curl up next to him earlier today and it was quite sweet. 

Mom is going to go to go get some pepcid, pill pockets, and prednisolone in pill form today. She may take some photos and video of Leo later on so that we have this documented to refer back to when he is SO healthy and mobile we've forgotten exactly what this looked like! Because that time IS coming! But mom will not post video of Leo trying to walk at this point- it's upsetting to see and mom prefers to keep our Catster video book fun and silly. There is a possiblity that he may have an unusual walk/gait permanently and that is okay. Purring that he heals completely but we will love him no matter what!

Darn, this was just going to be a short and sweet entry! For those of you who've been reading all of our novel-length diaries, thank you! For all of the purrs, thank you! For the friendship and support, THANK YOU!



<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">filled with grateful purrs and hopeful love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Update on my little brother</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/623202</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:04:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/623202</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends,

I just want to say &quot;Wow!&quot; and &quot;Thank you!&quot; for all of the Catster love and supp ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends,

I just want to say "Wow!" and "Thank you!" for all of the Catster love and support you are sending to Leo, mom, and our family. It's been a rough couple of days and today was especially difficult.

Our little Leo is very sick. Scary sick. Details are in his diary but to sum it up:

Friday evening he couldn't jump onto furniture or higher surfaces.

Saturday morning he was having trouble going up the stairs and still not jumping.

Saturday he saw the emergency vet. The vet thought he looked good and was not in pain or discomfort. Thought it might be a muscle strain from a fall or rough-housing with his brother. Said to give it 3 days.

Monday: He was not any better- still not jumping or climbing. Took him to the regular vet. She did x-rays and blood tests. Everything came back pretty normal, no concerns. Put him on pain medication. Said to give it 5 days.

Tuesday night: Leo was not able to use the litterbox; problems passing a bowel movement.

Wednesday: More litterbox problems, no longer able to walk and now he is not able to stand without assistance, not eating or drinking. Took him to a new vet. She took him off the pain meds, put him on an anti-biotic for toxoplasmosis, took more blood, waiting for results. Appointment with a neurologist tomorrow. When he tries to walk or stand, he tilts to the side, bobs, and his back legs give out and it does look like a neurological problem, possibly from toxoplasmosis, FIP, or something else- we're just not sure.

The difficult part of this is that it came out of nowhere. He was a healthy little kitten and then he couldn't jump up or climb the stairs. We truly thought he would be fine by now but to see him go downhill so quickly has been devastating.

He doesn't seem to be in pain. He was hiding under the ottoman but pulled himself out, using his front paws, to eat baby food.  We all went CRAZY for the baby food! Hello, Gerbers! He ate almost half a jar! He's sleeping now, next to mommy. 

As the family spokeskitty, I just wanted to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support has been amazing. We are doing our best to think positively and have hope; as Mittens and Diego both said, the vet gave the worst possible scenario today and only a possible diagnosis, nothing definitive. It was scary and Leo's symptoms are scary, but there is still hope that we can figure out what this is, treat it, and get this little guy moving around like a kitten should! Whatever this is, we will do whatever we can for our little lovebug.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Alien Invasion</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/622904</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:26:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/622904</guid>
		<description>Yesterday my mom put my little brothers in their carriers and took them away! I wasn't sure how to f ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday my mom put my little brothers in their carriers and took them away! I wasn't sure how to feel about that. They were gone for hours. When mom walked back in the door, she had the same carriers but DIFFERENT CATS!

They LOOKED like Leo and Charlie but they certainly didn't SMELL like my brothers! And everycat knows, it's not about what you see but what you smell!

Well, these boycats stunk, especially the one pretending to be Leo. I am positive that my house was being invaded by aliens. I tried to protect mom and Sophie from the aliens but that just got me separated and stuck in a bedroom for awhile. When I came out, Charlie was back. But Leo? Still an alien. 

This morning I gave him some good licks to check and see if Alien tastes like Leo. But he couldn't fool me. I am convinced that he is still an alien and I DON'T LIKE IT! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love and irritation,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Where's MY discount?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/622164</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Sep 2009 16:37:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/622164</guid>
		<description>Leo went to the ER vet today (details in his diary). He's not allowed to do any crazy kitten activit ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Leo went to the ER vet today (details in his diary). He's not allowed to do any crazy kitten activities for at least 3 days. Ha! We'll see how that goes.

Two things are bothering me about this whole Leo goes to the ER vet situation. Yeah, yeah, I hope he's okay and all of that but WHAT'S UP with the "Cute Kitten Discount" the vet gave him? I was just there a couple of weeks ago and no one mentioned anything about a cute kitty discount for me! Plus, he's got health insurance and I don't! If any cat from our family should get a cute kitty discount (or any discount! How about a frequent kitty client discount?), it should definitely be me! I'm cute, too!

And the other thing that bothers me? He may be cute but he stinks! Leo STINKS! He smells like that darn ER clinic and I don't like it one bit. He's so stinky that I can't even get close enough to him to give him a good Lucy bath! He's so stinky that if he's in a 5 foot radius of me, I have to hiss! Yuck!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Purrs for Calvin</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621668</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:21:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621668</guid>
		<description>We are sending heartfelt purrs to sweet * Calvin* and his family. He was diagnosed with cancer today ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We are sending heartfelt purrs to sweet <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283044">* Calvin*</a></b> and his family. He was diagnosed with cancer today and is in the hospital getting fluids and medication. Purrs that you are feeling better and ready to eat some Tiki!

We love you!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy and family</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Concats Doc!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621515</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:43:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621515</guid>
		<description>I just logged into Catster and discovered my dear friend * Doc * on the homepage as Cat of the Week! ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just logged into Catster and discovered my dear friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">* Doc *</a></b> on the homepage as Cat of the Week! Concats Doc!

Doc was one of my first really great Catster friends! He and his family are part of what I love about Catster- really adorable kitties with amazing, cat-loving parents and families! Doc was originally his daddy's cat. When his daddy got married, Doc gave his new mommy a REALLY hard time! I guess he didn't want to share his daddy! But it didn't take long for Doc to fall in love with his mommy and vice versa. Doc has some kidney and health problems and his mommy gives him sub-q fluids every day. He and his kitty sisters are so very loved!

Concats Doc! I hope you enjoy your special week as Cat of the Week!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>He's a nut.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621082</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:10:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/621082</guid>
		<description>My kitten brother Charlie is a nut. He thinks he's so tough, hunting defenseless teddy bears!

Her ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My kitten brother Charlie is a nut. He thinks he's so tough, hunting defenseless teddy bears!

Here's a new <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000246/the_teddy_bear_hunt">* video *</a></b> of Charlie the Brave as he hunts stuffed animals. * rolls eyes *

My cameo is the best part! Charlie growls at me and I lean over and taste his ear! MOL!



<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: Purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Hi. My name is Lucy.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/620225</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 10 Sep 2009 18:48:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/620225</guid>
		<description>Hi. My name is Lucy. I'm a sweet 7 year old kitty who likes to play fetch, talk a lot, and who loves ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi. My name is Lucy. I'm a sweet 7 year old kitty who likes to play fetch, talk a lot, and who loves her big doggie sister. I'm also learning to live with my two new little kitten brothers that arrived at our home in June. 

You may not remember me. I used to get Catster time every evening, reading friends' diaries, looking at friends' photos, and overall enjoying Catsterland.

For the past week, all that has changed. The reason you may not remember me is I haven't been on Catster for more than a minute or two this past week. That's right friends, my Catster time has been harshly limited.

But it's not my fault. 

It's my mom's fault. *gives mom the stink eye* She's been working longer hours this week and she's been in some silly work meeting thing for the last 3 days. Unacceptable.

Don't worry. I plan to punish her for this injustice when she's least expecting it.

NOTHING should interfere with my Catster time!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Hi! I missed you all!

P.P.S. I'm just hearing about some stupid Cat-Free Internet Day. To any one who supports such an absurd idea: I know a <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000246/photo/4618709">* tough guy *</a></b> who would like to have a word with you...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sweet and Innocent</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/619354</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 6 Sep 2009 18:58:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/619354</guid>
		<description>If you read Charlie's diary today you know that he's been a cheeky little fellow lately. Biting mom, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ If you read Charlie's diary today you know that he's been a cheeky little fellow lately. Biting mom, if you can believe that! 

I would NEVER do something like that!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Sweet and innocent, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. I'd like to clarify something: the kitty that was chewing on mom's hair first thing this morning and then bit mom's head was just a misunderstood kitty. She would NEVER purposefully bite her mom's head. That sweet and innocent kitty was just hungry and wanted her mom to wake up and feed her.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Check out my booty!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/618892</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 4 Sep 2009 08:47:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/618892</guid>
		<description>One of my favorite holidays is coming up! Nope, not Labor Day (although I sure am excited for the lo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ One of my favorite holidays is coming up! Nope, not Labor Day (although I sure am excited for the long weekend) but the other holiday in September! International Talk Like A Pirate Day is September 19th!

Want to see something kind of funny? <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/photo/3964239">* Check out my pirate booty! *</a></b> 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Arrrgh and Grumbles, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Ooooh, isn't that cute?!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/617839</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 30 Aug 2009 13:22:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/617839</guid>
		<description>Mom was outside in the backyard with Sophie. The kittens and I were watching from inside the door. M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom was outside in the backyard with Sophie. The kittens and I were watching from inside the door. Mom looked up and saw I was giving Leo a bath. His eyes were closed and he was leaning into me and I was going to town- it was a serious, thorough bathing! And then Charlie walked up and leaned into me with his head and I started giving him a bath, too.

Mom said, "Ooooh, isn't that cute?!" I glanced at her, leaned back to Leo and gave him a big lick on the top of his head. Then I threw my body into him, wrapped my paws around his neck and chomped down on his neck, pinning him to the ground helplessly.

How about that mom? Was that cute, too?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Big sister grins, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kitten-speed isn't fair</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/617634</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 29 Aug 2009 14:00:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/617634</guid>
		<description>It was bad enough when Charlie started playing fetch, especially because he's got kitten-speed and I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was bad enough when Charlie started playing fetch, especially because he's got kitten-speed and I don't. But within the last few days, little Leo has started playing fetch, too. With MY mousies. Not cool. 

The only one I can beat in a race to grab a fetch toy is Sophie. And that's because she's a big clumsy dog. And she's close to 15 (120 or so in dog years). And she has arthritis. Beating Sophie to a fetch toy doesn't help my kitty self-esteem at all.

What should I do to compete with kitten speed so that I can play fetch without so much kitten-interference?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">It's hard to be a big sister, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Mommy Moment</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616866</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:21:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616866</guid>
		<description>From Lucy's Mom ~ 

There are moments, as the mom to beloved animals, that I pause and look around ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ From Lucy's Mom ~ 

There are moments, as the mom to beloved animals, that I pause and look around my home at my little ones and everything just feels so right. Of course, hopefully we all have little moments like that throughout every day but sometimes there are bigger little moments that just feel so meaningful in their simplicity.

Tonight I was sitting on the couch, doing paperwork and listening to music. I looked up and my beautiful Sophie was laying contently on her doggie bed, looking at me. She raised her eyebrows and smiled  her doggie smile at me when we made eye contact. I smiled back and glanced around the room for my kitties. Charlie was on the stairs, poised to dart upstairs and do something kitten-crazy. With Lucy watching from her own contented spot atop the cat tree, he flew up the stairs with a little kitten grumble. It must have been an invitation because suddenly Leo hopped up from his sleepy spot next to me and darted up the stairs chasing after his brother. 

There was no reason to feel like it was an "extra" special moment but it was. It was a tiny moment of time that just felt right and made me happy and content. And all four of my little ones were happy and content, too.

And as our "Summer of Kittens" comes closer to "Autumn and Kittens" (kind of, it's still pretty hot here in the desert), I know that I made the right decision for Lucy, Sophie, the boys, and myself. Adopting both kittens was the right thing to do. 


Molly]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Snuggling and BUSTED!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616558</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 Aug 2009 21:25:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616558</guid>
		<description>Mom was doing stuff around the house tonight. She suddenly realized, in panicked-mommy-mode, that sh ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom was doing stuff around the house tonight. She suddenly realized, in panicked-mommy-mode, that she hadn't seen Charlie for awhile. Apparently, she wasn't too concerned that she hadn't seen me. *indignant sniff*

Anyways, she went upstairs looking for little Charlie. Guess where she found him? In the guest bedroom, in the dark, snuggled up on the bed next to yours truly! We were sleeping in a full-on kitty fur pile! 

Being a big sister has it's moments......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Life as a Big Sister Kitty</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616079</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 22 Aug 2009 22:10:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/616079</guid>
		<description>Thing have been going well here. Sure, the honeymoon with the kittens is over and sometimes I hiss a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thing have been going well here. Sure, the honeymoon with the kittens is over and sometimes I hiss at them just for existing in the same room as me but overall I like them. 

At first, I didn't really like to play with Charlie. He'd get too crazy and keep coming after me, even when I made it CLEAR that I'd had enough. But lately we've found a balance and sometimes I seek him out, walking past with my tail twitching in an invitation to play.

As for Leo, he often pretends he's an angel, all sweet and innocent. He has mom fooled but not me. I hiss at him a time or two each day to remind him who's boss. I like to play with him but my favorite thing to do with Leo is groom him. I clean him head to toe at least twice a day. He's got a lot of fur!

I've been a little worried about my doggie sister Sophie. She's started having trouble standing. Her back legs get wobbly and she can't always find her footing. She's also started to get confused and sometimes she doesn't want me in her den with her. Mom set up a new kitty cave right next to Sophie's den so when Sophie's in a grumpy mood I sleep in there instead of curled up next to her. Mom says Sophie is really old for a big dog at 14 1/2 years old and she is losing her sight, hearing, and sense of smell and she has arthritis. But overall, she is doing okay and mom is buying more rugs to put on the hardwood floors to help her stand up.

As for me, I'm the healthiest I've been in nearly 4 years. The immune suppressant medication I take, Atopica, truly seems to be a miracle drug for me and I've only had one tiny little lesion in more than 9 weeks. A year ago I was very, very ill and looking back, mom and I are so amazed at how much the blood allergy test, subsequent food changes, and Atopica, have turned my health around. And for some reason, since the boys arrived in June, I've been especially healthy (minus the Mommy Mental Wellness Check Up that required a trip to the ER vet. That doesn't count!). I've also been gaining weight and mom thinks that I may finally get back up to 10 lbs which is a really healthy weight for me. Who knew that little brothers could help a skinny kitty gain weight and feel so good?!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Happy and healthy, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The weekend has arrived!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/615822</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:38:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/615822</guid>
		<description>I'm kind of mad at my mom. She worked too much this week and I was starting to feel Catster-withdraw ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm kind of mad at my mom. She worked too much this week and I was starting to feel Catster-withdrawal! MOL! When she got home today, she cleaned the house which involved the vacuum monster. Not my idea of the best way to start the weekend! And then the skies started getting dark and it looks like we are going to have our third monsoon storm of the summer tonight. Ugh. Mom might be excited for the rain but I'm not.

But today was not a total bummer; Mom did give us yummy dinner tonight to celebrate the start of the weekend AND she brought home some new glitter balls for me (the boys are just borrowing them at the moment). 

Anyways, I'm happy to be back in Catsterland and look forward to catching up on all my kitty friends' diaries and new photos. Purrs that everycat enjoys the weekend! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>She's MINE.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/614543</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:02:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/614543</guid>
		<description>I just spent twenty minutes writing a lengthy diary entry about how much I love my doggie Sophie and ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just spent twenty minutes writing a lengthy diary entry about how much I love my doggie Sophie and how irritated I am that Leo has started headbonking and grooming her. That's MY job. And she's MY doggie.

In a totally fitting moment that truly defines the kitten chaos in my life these days, Charlie deleted the entire entry before I could save and post it. SERIOUSLY! I was just about to paw the Save and Display button when out of nowhere Charlie leapt onto the laptop (with one of MY mousies in his mouth of course) and my ENTIRE diary entry disappeared, FOREVER! Unbelievable.

Well, to summarize: She's MY doggie, keep your boykitten stink off of her! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love and exasperation, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Cruel and Unusual</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613805</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:30:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613805</guid>
		<description>It turns out that Mr. Fluffypants aka Leo likes MY mousies. I could maybe share with him. Maybe. But ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It turns out that Mr. Fluffypants aka Leo likes MY mousies. I could maybe share with him. Maybe. But not when he does such <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000247/diary/The_life_of_a_little_lovebug/613790">awful things</a></b> to my poor little mousies. And who wants to play with dripping wet mousies, anyways?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Samoa Says......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613452</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:44:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613452</guid>
		<description>Thank goodness I've got a wise kitty Diva like Samoa to consult about keeping the boys in line!

l ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank goodness I've got a wise kitty Diva like <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038/diary/Samoa_says/613398#comment_form">Samoa</a></b> to consult about keeping the boys in line!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>In need of a good laugh?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613181</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:58:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613181</guid>
		<description>I was browsing the Cat Health forum recently and came across a thread about the Cat Genie. I'd never ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was browsing the Cat Health forum recently and came across a thread about the Cat Genie. I'd never heard of it but a self-cleaning litterbox sounds pretty cool, right?! One of the Catsters recommended reading some of the funny amazon.com comments before purchasing this fancy creation. 

OH. MY. CAT. <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/cdp/member-reviews/A1RQ1RZQCG80X9/ref=cm_pdp_rev_more?ie=UTF8&sort%5Fby=MostRecentReview#R32RN0APNFZAUM">* This *</a></b> review is pretty funny!

I've decided that I don't want a "mechanical poo soup maker!" My regular litterbox is just fine!

 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Funny friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613168</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:03:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/613168</guid>
		<description>I love Catster. I love looking at kitties' photos and videos, reading diaries, and making friends. O ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I love Catster. I love looking at kitties' photos and videos, reading diaries, and making friends. One of my favorite parts of Catster is reading comments- diary comments, photo comments, and video comments. You kitties are FUNNY!

Here's a couple of my all time favorites:

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/796300">Ozzy's </a></b> "Mama Puddle" comment on our <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000246/sweet_little_charlie">Sweet Little Charlie Video</a></b>!

There were lots of funny comments on the Leo/Kate Spade series of photos but <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/421905">Beloved Angel Amelia</a></b> and <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038">Samoa</a></b> cracked me up with <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000247/photo/4570394">these comments</a></b>!

And check out <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/968819">Toby's</a></b> comment on <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000246/photo/4617516">this photo!</a></b>

And in a classic Catster moment Mom posted in my diary asking Catsters if she should adopt one or two kittens. Yep, she seriously asked a website full of cat-lovers if they thought she should adopt one or two. Hmmm. *sarcastic eyeroll* I wonder what they said?

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592339#comments">Decisions, Decisions......</a></b>

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592516#comments">Decided!</a></b> (Once again, <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038">Samoa</a></b>'s comments are pretty darn funny!)


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>An Expos&eacute;/ Updated with the correct link!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/612632</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 9 Aug 2009 18:05:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/612632</guid>
		<description>Weekends are the best! I've spent my time snuggling with the kittens, hiding from the vacuum monster ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Weekends are the best! I've spent my time snuggling with the kittens, hiding from the vacuum monster (okay, that wasn't the best part of the weekend), eating some yummy salmon, and taking lots of kitty naps! I hope that all my kitty friends are having a great weekend, too!

We posted a new <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/1000246/sweet_little_charlie">* VIDEO *</a></b>; I only make a cameo towards the end. It's mostly an exposé on Charlie's softer side. He's not quite the tough guy that he thinks he is! MOL!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/612438</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 8 Aug 2009 21:44:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/612438</guid>
		<description>Thanks to HQs for picking me as a Daily Diary Pick yesterday! 

Thanks to sweet to Wally and famil ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to HQs for picking me as a Daily Diary Pick yesterday! 

Thanks to sweet to Wally and family for the heart, watermelon, and memento. Rocky Ann, thank you for the smacky paw to put Charlie in his place! Thank you to Spot for the beachball and to Mercy for the yummy purple ice cream. Thanks to Samoa for the watermelon and all of her advice on how to be a big sister kitty diva! And thank you dear Muppet for the trophy- it's so fancy!

And for the pmails, diary comments, and photo comments ~ Thank you Buddy...Always Loved, Hazel Lucy, Ivan ~WLC~, Shadow, and handsome Nuk!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who's in Charge?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/611589</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 5 Aug 2009 12:16:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/611589</guid>
		<description>This may look as if Charlie has the upper paw on me.

He doesn't.


love, 
Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/photo/4631823">This</a></b> may look as if Charlie has the upper paw on me.

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/photo/4634639">He doesn't.</a></b>


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Yesterday's vet visit has a title!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610783</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Aug 2009 11:55:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610783</guid>
		<description>N&uuml;k says that sometimes we kitties have to go to the v-e-t for &quot;Mommy Mental Wellness Check Ups.&quot; Th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/439017">Nük</a></b> says that sometimes we kitties have to go to the v-e-t for "Mommy Mental Wellness Check Ups." Those are the vet visits that a kitty really doesn't end up needing but the mommy needed the kitty to see the vet for reassurance, for her own peace of mind. 

That seems to be what yesterday's ER vet visit was all about. Because today, I'm running, jumping, climbing and feeling pretty good! No sign of anything weird going on with my leg! And no more hissing at mom or the kittens. It appears that I really didn't need to go to the vet yesterday. If mommy would have taken a "wait and see" approach, she would have saved $117 and she wouldn't have had to clean out my carrier yesterday after somecat had an accident in there! MOL!

But most mommies agree that it's worth a vet visit and the money the vet visit costs to get a little peace of mind. I'm not sure why I have to be the one to go the v-e-t for MOMMY'S mental wellness check up? Oh well, I'm just glad it's over, I'm home now, I had tuna for dinner last night, and my leg feels great!

Has your mommy ever dragged you to the v-e-t for a Mommy Mental Wellness Check Up?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Trip to the ER vet</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610560</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 1 Aug 2009 13:38:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610560</guid>
		<description>I was sleeping on the window seat this morning. Charlie came by me and I hissed at him. And I just k ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was sleeping on the window seat this morning. Charlie came by me and I hissed at him. And I just kept hissing and hissing. Then Leo walked over and looked at me and I hissed at him, too. I rarely hiss so mom was concerned. She picked me up and I growled at her! She then put me on the floor and I walked across the room, limping and barely putting weight on my back leg/foot. Mom tried to examine my leg and foot and I hissed at her! I've never hissed at her before! Then I ran and hid under the bed.

Next thing I know, I'm in the carrier, in the car, and then at the emergency v-e-t. We waited and waited. It was very busy. While we were waiting in our room, mom let me out of the carrier and I walked around the room without limping! 

My temp was normal, my gums looked good, and by the time the vet came in, I was acting pretty normal. I let him push and pull and rotate my leg and check the paw pads and between my toes. I purred and kneaded the examination table. I was pretty much a perfect example of a healthy cat! It was obvious that the only being in the room with an issue was my mom- completely over-reacting!!!

Now I'm back home. Hovering mommy is back, keeping a close eye on me. If I start limping again, I'll have to go back and get an x-ray just to make sure I'm okay. Since I came back home, the kittens have been trying to follow me around and sniff me. I keep hissing at them to leave me alone!

Whatever happened in the middle of the night is my secret. I'll never tell! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. I've gained 1/2 a pound since the kittens came home! I'm now back up to 9 1/2 pounds!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Dirty, Messy Boycats!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610357</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:00:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610357</guid>
		<description>Holy cat! My little brothers are dirty boys! They are always making a mess. Is that a boycat trait o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Holy cat! My little brothers are dirty boys! They are always making a mess. Is that a boycat trait or a kitten trait? MOL!

They dig like crazy in the litterboxes, sending litter all over the place! They love water and look for any opportunity to get their paws wet (like in the kitchen sink!) and then run all over the place leaving trails of kitten pawprints! And when they eat, they get food EVERYWHERE! All over their faces, whiskers (seriously, clumps of food stuck to their whiskers!), chins, necks, and legs. Yesterday Leo had some food stuck to his eyebrow! And mom found food about 5 feet up, stuck to the wall. What are those boys doing?!

As you may know, I take my job as official family groomer very seriously. Leo doesn't give me any trouble. I groom him, head to tail, every day. Of course, sometimes I chew on him a little and wrestle him to the ground, but that's only to make sure I get him REALLY clean. He likes it and he's clean when I'm through with him.

But that little Charlie. Oh. My. Cat. He barely sits still long enough for me to clean his ears! I have to wrestle him to the ground and get a couple of good, quick licks in before he jumps on me and wrestles ME to the ground. Then I wrestle him back down, pin him with my paw or body, and get a couple more grooming licks in. And then he pins me down again! It takes forever to get that kitten clean!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love and big sister licks, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. In my last diary I mentioned that July 2009 is likely to set the record for the hottest month ever in the history of Phoenix. Thanks to friends for all your comments! I've since learned that Hazel Lucy is having a cool summer and Nikolai, Muppet and Rocky Ann's extended family are suffering with me in desert heat. Check this out- TT reports that his city has set a record for the "wettest July" and Oliver and Dewey are experiencing a record "coldest" summer in Wisconsin with an average of 76 degrees! Wild weather! Luckily the weather in Catsterland is perfect!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Compassionate Kitty!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610072</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:39:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/610072</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat! July 2009 is about to set the record for the hottest month EVER recorded in Phoenix! Our  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat! July 2009 is about to set the record for the hottest month EVER recorded in Phoenix! Our average high through 30 days is 109.5 degrees. Ick! 

Sure, I spend my days and nights lounging in my air conditioned house. But I'm a kitty with compassion and I know it's been hot out there! Normally we get lots of scary monsoon thunderstorms in July and that cools things down a bit but so far we've only had one storm! Not that I want a big scary monsoon storm but a little rain would be okay. 

We are ready for August! Paws crossed that August will carry a few days of rain and a cool breeze or two!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Cat Nip!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/609774</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:18:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/609774</guid>
		<description>I love cat nip! I love all of my cat nip toys and I love to roll around in cat nip and eat it, too!  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I love cat nip! I love all of my cat nip toys and I love to roll around in cat nip and eat it, too! Mom just realized that she hasn't introduced the boys to cat nip yet! Sure, they've played with nippy toys but they've never had a big pile in front of them, just begging them to roll around in it! Can you believe they've never experienced that? Bad mom! 

Not only have the boys not played in their own piles of cat nip yet, we only have a little bit left. So I'm sending mom to the store tomorrow after work to pick some up. And then it's time to see some kitten crazies! I might have to watch from a safe place, like under the couch!

Do you like cat nip?


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/609523</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:41:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/609523</guid>
		<description>Thanks to HQs and my kitty friends for celebrating my Daily Diary Pick yesterday!

I have an updat ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to HQs and my kitty friends for celebrating my Daily Diary Pick yesterday!

I have an update on my neighborcat Fred- his parents came home! Mom went over to drop off their key and Fred came running up to see her, purring and headbonking! I think Fred and mom kind of have a "thing" for each other......

The plants? Hard to say. Mom left before the neighbors could check on them. She tried her very best but she is not a desert gardner!

In other news, I want to introduce you to two new Catster friends! <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1010306">BK (stands for Bald Kitty!)</a></b> and <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1016502">Teddy McLovin</a></b> are kitties I met in the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Cats_with_allergies-14743">* Cats with Allergies group *</a></b> and they are brand new Catsters. 

BK has severe allergies like me and Teddy has possible allergies and a very serious skin problem. He was also burned and had to have numerous operations. They found their way into the life and home of an amazing foster mom who takes great care of them. Both kitties have allergies/health issues that make their skin really itchy and it's hard for them to grow fur. They are also on the same medicine I am on for itchy skin (even though the medicine is only "officially" approved for itchy doggies!) and are doing well. Their mom does rescue work and she is known as a great foster mom for kitties with special needs and health issues, especially allergies and skin conditions. 

If you have a moment, visit their pages and make new friends! They are brand new so their mom is still updating their profiles and adding photos. You have to check out Teddy's main picture- his facial expression is precious!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>An Update on My Life as Big Sister</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608923</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:17:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608923</guid>
		<description>I'm a Daily Diary Pick today! Fun! Thanks HQ!

Life is good here. The boys are free to run around  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm a Daily Diary Pick today! Fun! Thanks HQ!

Life is good here. The boys are free to run around the house all day and night and I am free to spend as much time in the kitten room as I want! I hated having a room in the house closed off!

The boys are crazy. Charlie is obsessed with anything our doggie Sophie is eating including dog treats and dog food. He'll steal some right out from under her nose! Leo likes to play, play, play and he makes some crazy kitten noises any time one of his toys slides under a closed door! And mom always calls ME the chatterbox!

I like to play with both kittens but I definitely play more with Leo than with Charlie. Charlie is pretty feisty and he doesn't read my "Stop! I'm done!" cues very well (even though I think my cues are pretty clear- smacking him in the head and hissing at him!). Leo is a pretty laidback dude and he doesn't push my boundaries (smart kitten!). He likes to play with both me and with Charlie. I do really like to groom both of them and cuddle with them and I like to play chase with both kittens up and down the stairs. 

Here's a link to my most recent video <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/the_summer_of_kittens_continues_2">* The Summer of Kittens Continues *</a></b>! It's mostly video of me and Leo playing but Charlie makes a couple of cute cameos, especially at the very end! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Fred's a lover!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608798</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:50:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608798</guid>
		<description>My mom says she's in love with our kitty neighbor Fred. She's been stopping by twice a day to give h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom says she's in love with our kitty neighbor Fred. She's been stopping by twice a day to give him some loving and feed him because his parents had to suddenly go out of town for the weekend. When mom walks in the door of his house, Fred runs up to her, purring and headbonking! As soon as mom sits down, he hops in her lap and purrs and purrs. 

Now that mom's getting her kitten fix daily (times 2), she's enjoying the time with an older, mellow kitty. I told her that's fine, just don't enjoy it too much! Fred's parents will be home tomorrow so mom and Sophie can go back to waving at him from his window seat perch. 

Mom's also been trying to keep the neighbor's garden alive. So far, nothing's turned brown. But are yellow leaves a bad sign? MOL!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Pork Chops!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608377</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:42:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608377</guid>
		<description>Princess Pork Chop of Woodview would be so proud of me! Today, while trying to peacefully enjoy my y ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">Princess Pork Chop of Woodview</a></b> would be so proud of me! Today, while trying to peacefully enjoy my yummy dinner of Tiki Cat Wild Salmon in Salmon Consomme, Charlie finished his salmon and stuck his tabby nose right in my bowl. MY bowl!

I hissed and bopped him on the head! Get out of my food! 

It worked, too! For about 3 minutes. Then he came back, grabbed a big chunk of salmon, and ran off with it. And then he came back two more times and took more of my food and ran off. *sighs*

Did I finish my food? No. But it doesn't matter. It was MY bowl.

Is there a limit on how many porkchops a big sister can give to a little brother in one day?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who the heck is Fred?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608154</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 23 Jul 2009 19:50:40 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/608154</guid>
		<description>Mom came in the house smelling of some-other-cat scent tonight. Turns out the some-other-cat in this ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom came in the house smelling of some-other-cat scent tonight. Turns out the some-other-cat in this case is named Fred.

"Who the heck is Fred?" That's what I wanted to know when mom told me she's going to be catsitting Fred for the next three days. My next meow was, "He's not ANOTHER new brother, is he?"

Nope, not a new kitty brother! Oh kitty friends, I cannot tell you the relief I felt! I'm at my limit with brothers!

Fred is our neighbors' cat. He's a big 14 year old orangie and I guess mom and Sophie see him everyday when they walk past his house. He sits in his window seat and watches the world. I never even knew about him until tonight! 

His parents are going out of town for the weekend and mom is going to stop in and do food and litterbox duties (and, of course, Fred-loving!). As long as she comes home, alone, all is good.

The neighbors also asked if mom would water their plants and vegetable garden. They have worked very hard to grow it as it is nearly impossible to keep anything green in Phoenix in 115 degree heat. They told mom how much they love the garden and how their young grandaughter loves to check in on and care for their garden whenever she comes over to visit. They smiled and talked lovingly about the garden they have nurtured. 

My mom, who has never been accused of having anything close to a green thumb, is feeling the pressure. Can she keep their garden alive over the weekend? Or will she crush the garden dreams of a 6 year old girl and her grandparents? We'll see......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Purring for a rainy weekend, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Brothers = Crazy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/607906</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:36:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/607906</guid>
		<description>The boys are out of the kitten room all the time now. I guess that means that the kitten room no lon ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The boys are out of the kitten room all the time now. I guess that means that the kitten room no longer exists and it's back to being a bedroom? That also means that I don't get any breaks from the boys. No breaks at all. 

The boys are crazy. Charlie tried to steal Sophie's treat this morning, growling at her and even smacking her in the nose! I guess he doesn't realize that she outweighs him by more than 55 pounds (thank goodness she's a big sweetie because not all dogs would be cool with that). Charlie also likes to walk on top of the tv like it's a balance beam and crawl behind the tv. Sometimes he even sits and WATCHES tv like a human! Geez, he is definitely a nut. 

Leo's crazy, too. He likes the try and climb the curtains and once he ended up dangling a foot off the ground (and then he got his nails trimmed! MOL!). He also likes to jump up on MY window seat and pull all three of the kitty beds off the window seat and onto the ground. Then the little turkey bites and chews the kitty beds and drags them around the room by his mouth! I guess he thinks kitty beds are toys, like huge mousies or something? *shakes head* I don't know what he thinks but I do know that I like to have my kitty bed sitting IN the window seat with me sleeping IN the kitty bed.

Seriously. It's kind of crazy at my house.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A New Video of Me and the Boys!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/606440</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Jul 2009 02:31:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/606440</guid>
		<description>Anycat want to see a * new video of me and the boys *?! 

love, 
Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Anycat want to see a <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/the_summer_of_kittens_continues">* new video of me and the boys *</a></b>?! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A question of size</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/606387</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:30:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/606387</guid>
		<description>Holy cat, it's hot out here in the desert! Record highs this weekend around 117 degrees. And an icky ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Holy cat, it's hot out here in the desert! Record highs this weekend around 117 degrees. And an icky dust storm tonight. Yuck. And get this- BOTH kittens tried to dart out the backdoor today. *shakes head* Crazy kittens! 

Mom's been home for the last few days with the shingles. Still no sign of chicken like behavior! It hasn't been as fun to have her home as I was expecting. Her medicine makes her very sleepy. Bor-ing!

As some of you may know, mom and my v-e-t have been slightly obsessed with my weight for the last year. I was even subjected to multiple "weight checks"- that means special trips to the v-e-t to get weighed! All because I lost 1 1/2 pounds. Not cool.

Well, now that there are 4 pound kitties in the house, suddenly mom thinks I'm huge! Every time she picks me up, she makes a comment about my weight! She thinks I've gained weight since becoming a big sister; I think her judgement is off now that she is picking up the little guys all day long!

The kittens have reminded me of some of the smaller spaces in the house. I thought I was too big to fit under the couch but guess what?! If I belly crawl my way in, I can hang out under the couch! Mom says I should try and grab all of the mousies and toys hiding under there but I told her that's her job!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Quality time!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605820</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:40:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605820</guid>
		<description>Guess what?! Mom is home from work for at least the next 5 days! She went to see the human v-e-t tod ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Guess what?! Mom is home from work for at least the next 5 days! She went to see the human v-e-t today; apparently she has something called shingles which is related to chicken pox. As a cat, I have no clue what any of that means. Mom has not started growing feathers or doing weird chicken things, but I'll keep my eye on her just in case. Mom has to stay home so that she doesn't expose anyone to the chicken pox virus! Woo-hoo! An unexpected staycation that includes mom! 

Here's a kitty sister update: It is very, very hard to play fetch with mom. Everytime she throws my mousie, the boys run after it! And for some totally unfair reason, they are faster than me! They ALWAYS get there first. So I'm pouting. I don't want to play mousie fetch with my brothers. That's a game for ME and MY mom. Not for brothers. *pouts*

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Did you check out <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://blogs.catster.com/the-cats-meow-a-cat-and-kitten-blog/the-truth-about-cats-and-dogs-pt-3/2009/07/15/">The Cat's Meow</a></b> today?! I want to make sure that everycat knows that I am PROTECTING Sophie, not hiding.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Cat's Meow!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605685</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Jul 2009 08:30:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605685</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

Did you check out The Cat's Meow today?!

love, 
Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

Did you check out <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://blogs.catster.com/the-cats-meow-a-cat-and-kitten-blog/the-truth-about-cats-and-dogs-pt-3/2009/07/15/">The Cat's Meow</a></b> today?!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>There's only so much......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605188</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:07:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/605188</guid>
		<description>There's only so much a kitty sister can do for her baby brothers. 

I groom them. I share my food  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ There's only so much a kitty sister can do for her baby brothers. 

I groom them. I share my food with them. I let them play with my mousies. I let them jump on me and wrestle me to the ground (sometimes). I let them sleep on the top of the kitty trees (sometimes). I let them chase me up and down the stairs without laying serious smackdown on them. I think I'm really quite a generous kitty sister.

But a kitty's got to lay the line down somewhere.

Tonight, when the dust storm hit and the wind began making all kinds of crazy noises, it was everykitty for herself. I, of course, ended up in the safety of Sophie's den, curled closely against her with my eyes closed. There's only room for two.

Where did the boys go? I have no idea......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Privacy please!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/604361</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:30:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/604361</guid>
		<description>My mom has been working too much! She's been in and out the door a lot this week and I don't like it ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom has been working too much! She's been in and out the door a lot this week and I don't like it. On top of that, it's SO hot here (up to 117 this weekend). But mom just finished up her paperwork for the week and the weekend is here! And I FINALLY get a chance to cruise around Catster after a week of hardly any Catster time......

Things are going well here. I like to follow the kittens, especially if they go up the stairs. I don't want to miss a thing!

One thing that kind of stinks is that I'm not allowed to eat the kittens' food because I'm allergic to it. Two weeks ago I snuck in and ate some. I didn't get sick so mom let me eat a little bit more each day. Bad idea mom! A week into me eating some of their food, I got a really big lesion and lost lots of fur on my cheek. So now I'm not allowed to eat ANY of their food. * pouts * Mom's transitioning the boys to my food so that everyone is eating the same food. Bummer. I really liked their food.

In other, more personal news: Charlie and I have a "thing" for each other. We spend lots of time laying together in the living room window, behind the curtains and hidden from mom's view. Sometimes she hears funny sounds and when she peeks around the curtain, she's caught us snuggling and grooming each other. Of course, the minute she goes to get the camera, we immediately stop.

Not everything has to be documented! Let us have some privacy, please!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The life of a big sister</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/603271</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Jul 2009 22:58:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/603271</guid>
		<description>The boys are crazy. They are messy. They leave toys in the water bowls. They dig and dig and dig in  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The boys are crazy. They are messy. They leave toys in the water bowls. They dig and dig and dig in the litter boxes. Sometimes they lay down in the litter boxes! They scatter kitty litter everywhere. 

They play with MY mousies. They jump around in MY tents. They climb to the top and *gasp* sleep in MY kitty trees. 

They chase me up the stairs. They chase me down the stairs. They jump on me. They fall on me.  

Charlie even jumped ON my doggie's head! While she was standing up! The boys are crazy.

But......

I kind of like them! Last night I gave Charlie a much needed bath. He just closed his eyes and leaned into me while I groomed his face, ears and head. And tonight, I got ahold of little Leo and gave him a bath, too. Apparently this is the life of a big sister!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I've been a big sister for two weeks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/600587</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:16:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/600587</guid>
		<description>OMC- The boys are loose! They have the run of the house!

Excuse me, I've got to go try and snag s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ OMC- The boys are loose! They have the run of the house!

Excuse me, I've got to go try and snag some kitten food......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

* Mom's Update *

Two weeks into our family expansion! It's going well- there have definitely been moments of new kitty mom anxiety but there's nothing better than seeing the boys and Lucy playing together. They've even started briefly snuggling but it's really hot here so I'll probably have to wait until winter time to really see the * Ahhhh! Animals snuggling! * moments : )

Lucy has responded so well to the boys! Since Sally died last May, I've really felt that Lucy was lonely for kitty company. She's been sick so many times in the past year and has really had a hard time when I've had to go out of town. I hope the boys will keep her company and she won't feel so lonely (although there are no plans to go anywhere for many months!). 

Also, right after Sally passed away, Lucy started going to the last place she saw Sally (next to the front door, in the corner, where I had last set Sally down while she was in her carrier before she left the house for the last time). Lucy would stand there, stare up at the ceiling, and howl. She did that a couple of times a week for the last year since we said good bye to Sally. Since the boys came home, Lucy hasn't done it once. Hopefully they will help to fill the sadness in her heart at the loss of Sally. They are helping me with that, too.

Sophie's doing well, too. My only concern with her is age-related issues: failing vision, hearing, and sense of smell. I don't want one of the kittens to surprise her while she's sleeping so I'm keeping their Sophie interactions closely supervised for now. Sophie's truly a kitty lover, she always has been. She is so tolerant of the boys and really just wants to sniff them all over! They aren't ready for that, though!

Oh, another thing- I now cannot walk by any store that sells kitty toys without spending money! With Lucy, I know what toys she likes so those are what I buy. But with the boys, everything is so new and exciting to them! Every toy I see I wonder what they will think of it and I can't help myself- I have to buy it! I should have budgeted for new kitty toys! I think I'm a kitty toy shopaholic!

All in all, the summer of kittens is going well! Lots of smiles and laughter over here!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>What a girl REALLY wants</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/600219</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 22:11:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/600219</guid>
		<description>Mom let the boys out of the kitten room for a little bit tonight. They finally got to explore more o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom let the boys out of the kitten room for a little bit tonight. They finally got to explore more of the house, including the stairs! Lots of zooming going on after lots of sniffing around!

When the boys first emerged from the kitten room, I chattered at them and at mom. I was really excited! Mom thought I was excited to show the boys the house......

Nope.

I was excited to hang out in the kitten room at the top of the kitten room cat tree, all by myself! I stayed in there the entire time! MOL!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Wait until you see what Leo *literally* got into today! Check out <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000247/diary/Growing_up_leo/600222">* Leo's Diary *</a></b> for photos!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Cat Nap</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/599602</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:52:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/599602</guid>
		<description>When mom got home from work today, Charlie, Leo, mom, and I all took a cat nap together in the kitte ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom got home from work today, Charlie, Leo, mom, and I all took a cat nap together in the kitten room! I even let Leo sleep on the top of the cat tree while I slept on a lower ledge (but make no mistake, I am definitely top cat!). Charlie napped next to mom on the bed. 

Looking forward to the day that Sophie joins us!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sneaky Girlie!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/599226</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:47:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/599226</guid>
		<description>I have  a little confession to make. I'm a sneaky girl! I WANT to eat the kitten food even though I' ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have  a little confession to make. I'm a sneaky girl! I WANT to eat the kitten food even though I'm not allowed because of my allergies. Everytime mom lets me in the kitten room, I make a beeline for the kitten food. Twice mom forgot to pick it up before letting me in the room and I got some big mouthfuls! Of course, that was less cool later when I had to use the litterbox because of my tummy upset! So unfair!

Unfortunately, my visits with the boys have decreased. Mom wants to limit my exposure to the coccidia until the boys have been on their antibiotics for a few more days; as a result, I only get short, closely supervised visits. Luckily, the medicine seems to be working as they are less stinky and producing more "firm" movements. I'm excited to show the boys the rest of the house but mom says we have to wait until they get over the icky coccidia.

I think I kind of like the boys! I've gotten more comfortable with them and have started wrestling with them. I get a little bitey and smacky but no hissing or growling or marks/owies. That's good, right? Plus the boys get bitey with ME so it's only fair! 

I beg to go in the kitten room, whether mom is in there or not. I just want to keep an eye on those boys! Today I taught them how to jump up on the dresser and get into things! They were quick learners and in no time they were getting into all kinds of mischief. I retreated to the top of the kitty tree and watched with delight as mom tried to manage the kitten crazies occuring on top of the dresser!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>As If!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598592</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 14:03:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598592</guid>
		<description>The boys have coccidia. That's why they are so stinky and, um, loose. Yuck. Mom asked the vet about  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The boys have coccidia. That's why they are so stinky and, um, loose. Yuck. Mom asked the vet about risk to me, especially now that I have started licking the boys a little.

The vet said that I should be fine as long as I don't eat the kittens' poop. 

AS IF! 

Seriously. How could that thought even cross her mind? I won't even eat kitty treats, I'm certainly not going to snack on poo! 

Sometimes I get the feeling that the people in my life don't know me at all! 


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">meowing it out, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The family groomer</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598439</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:29:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598439</guid>
		<description>Thank you to HQ and my friends for celebrating my DDP! I loved reading all of your diary and video c ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank you to HQ and my friends for celebrating my DDP! I loved reading all of your diary and video comments and the sweet rosettes. Mom is really behind in helping me, Charlie, and Leo send out personal thank yous; I apologize on mom's behalf!

I had lots more time with the boys this evening. I was a little more smacky with my paw, especially towards Charlie. He just keeps going and going and going, mostly with his eyes (and teeth and paws) on my tail. He settled down for a bit and I actually leaned over and gave him a lick on his head. It was a pretty special moment until he ruined it by pouncing on top of me, wrapping his paws around me and trying to chew on my neck! You may be thinking, "Oh no he didn't!" Oh, YES, he DID! It happened so fast I didn't even have time to thunk him with my paw. I just shot straight up in the air with surprise and hurried back up the cat tree. And NO, I wasn't scared. Just surprised at the kitten foolishness!

Now little Leo, he's a different story. He obeys the smacky paw for the most part. When I walk into the kitten room, he runs right over and sniffs my face and tries to bonk me with his head. I tolerate it and actually kind of like it. He and I have shared a few licks of each other's fur. I've got to start him early. He's going to have some very long hair and I am the official family groomer. When he licked my head, I closed my eyes and leaned into him. It was brief but long enough for mom's heart to melt......

Sophie met the boys once. They were scared of her and she was excited about them but as soon as she left the room she forgot about them! That was 3 days ago and she still isn't showing any interest in them. She's an older lady (14 1/2) and her eye sight, hearing, and sense of smell are definitely not as sharp as they used to be. Mom and I aren't even sure if she realizes there are kittens in the house. Tomorrow is Sophie's 13th Gotcha Day anniversary! 13 years have gone by since a teenage college student (mom!) walked into the Humane Society in Phoenix and met the doggie love of her life (Sophie!) for the first time! Now Sophie is the teenager and mom is definitely not! Love you Sophie!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Video Evidence of Me as a Big Sister!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598133</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 02:31:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598133</guid>
		<description>I'm a Daily Diary Pick! How exciting! Thank you HQs! In celebration I have a little something to sha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm a Daily Diary Pick! How exciting! Thank you HQs! In celebration I have a little something to share with my Catster friends ~ 

It's <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/the_queen_of_tolerance_2">* video evidence *</a></b> of me as a (somewhat) tolerant big sister. The video was taken during my second meeting with the boys.

Part of the video was filmed sideways. Mom was trying to make a really artsy film. MOL! Just kidding. While she was recording, mom forgot that she can't rotate a video, only photos. So she was trying to take vertical shots with a camera that only takes horizontal shots. Silly mom! So you may have to stand on your head to get the best view while you watch! 

Also, if you hear funny baby squawking sounds, that's actually some real birdies out the window and not my baby brothers squawking in fear of me!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Thank you for showing the Catster love and support to my dear friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a></b> and his loving mom as he makes his journey to the bridge today.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Purrs for a friend's crossing</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598110</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 18 Jun 2009 22:32:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/598110</guid>
		<description>My dear friend Onyx will be going to the bridge tomorrow, June 19th. He is home tonight getting lots ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My dear friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a></b> will be going to the bridge tomorrow, June 19th. He is home tonight getting lots of cuddles and lovings from his mom and his many admirers. Sending purrs of comfort to his loving mom.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Excuse me!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/597416</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:16:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/597416</guid>
		<description>I met my brothers today. I slipped in the room as mom was trying to slip out. I sniffed around, made ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I met my brothers today. I slipped in the room as mom was trying to slip out. I sniffed around, made a couple of funny sounds, and then climbed to the top of the cat tree and watched the boys with wide eyes and a ready paw. I think I held it together pretty well until those boys tried to get my tail. EXCUUUUSE ME!

They are quite stinky and make funny sounds. I can tell that my job as family groomer is going to be much more time-consuming (if I ever decide I'm willing to let them get that close to me!). Sophie still doesn't seem to notice or care about the kittens at all. Mom invited her into the kitten room but she just thumped her tail, laid down and took a nap. Ugh, dogs! Her sweet indifference to the kitties is bizarre, especially considering I could use a little back up......

My little brother Charlie was chosen as Diary of the Day today. That's cool, whatever. I did like how he wrote about chewing on the tip of mom's nose- she deserves punishment after bringing TWO kittens into my house! Mom's also been sneezing up a storm which is kind of funny. That's what she gets for bringing home TWO!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Meowing it out, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Adjusting......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596673</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 20:09:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596673</guid>
		<description>Hmmm, I'm still considering what I think about what's going on in my house. I have been fairly quiet ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hmmm, I'm still considering what I think about what's going on in my house. I have been fairly quiet about the whole thing (well, quiet for ME), sitting outside the bedroom door and watching/waiting. I hissed and swatted under the door a couple of times yesterday. Then I laid down so that my entire tail went under the door into the kitten room. I sat there twitching it back and forth, trying to lure the intruders closer. Mom laughed. I didn't.

Last night I meowed at the door pretty loudly and let mom know that she was sleeping with ME, not them. It worked for a big chunk of the night. Today I'm less concerned but keeping an eye out and a paw ready. The stripey spotted one, Charlie, escaped the room tonight. He got about 3 feet from me; I just sat there and stared at him while he sniffed the ground. Mom intervened quickly and Charlie went back into his room.

Sophie has been no help at all. She doesn't seem to care one bit about the kittens and the closed door. She just smiles at mom when mom comes out of the room and then goes to the kitchen and asks for a treat. Gosh, dogs can be really dumb sometimes.

Thanks for the support over this whole brothers thing and about my ear. My ear is doing okay; it's still a bit oozy but I haven't been messing with it so no e-collar needed yet!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Uncertain meows, 
Lucy</a></b>

* Update from Mom *

Wow, I forgot how totally crazy kittens can be! And two at once is really something, especially when they are both trying to nurse from me! They are so persistent!

They are doing well, lots of exploring and running and jumping and tackling each other. They are both so tiny and quick- I have to be really careful when coming and going from their room as they are definitely little escape artists! 

I'm going to call the vet tomorrow- both boys have the stinkiest poo ever! And it's pretty loose even though I am feeding them the same food they ate at their foster home. I don't remember Sally or Lucy having loose poop problems when I first brought them home (of course, it's been awhile!). The boys were dewormed 3 weeks ago and had a clear fecal sample at that time but probably better safe than sorry. Hopefully it's just the stress of their 2 hour travel to get here and of adjusting to their new home? 

Thank you for all of the beautiful stars, gifts, rosettes, and the friendship! The kitties will send out personal thank yous later in the week.

Kitten energy is really something! I can't wait to have them integrated with Sophie and Lucy as one big family!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>They're HERE!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596264</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 12:53:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596264</guid>
		<description>Check out Charlie and Leo! 



Uncertain meows, 
Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Check out <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000246">Charlie</a></b> and <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/1000247">Leo</a></b>! 



<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Uncertain meows, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Trip to the Vet</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596219</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 09:49:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596219</guid>
		<description>This morning mom called the vet as soon as they opened. Of course they didn't have any appointments  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This morning mom called the vet as soon as they opened. Of course they didn't have any appointments available until the exact time the boys are arriving! So mom pleaded and they got us in at 8:30!

I wasn't happy about it. When we got in the exam room, I hid on a shelf. I curled up on a bunch of books and closed my eyes but they still found me. The vet thinks that I was scratching my ear (due to my darn allergies) and that I got one of my back nails hooked on my ear and ripped it open. OUCH! Doesn't speak much to mom's nail trimming abilities does it? 

If I mess with it at all, I have to wear an e-collar for 10 days. I am doing my best to leave it alone just to avoid that. They trimmed all of my nails super short and I got another steroid shot to try to ease my itchiness. I can't take clavamox because of the horrific allergic reaction I had to it last year but the vet said it should be okay- No need for an antibiotic shot at this time. She said it's a bad cut and will probably take a long time to heal but as long as I don't mess with it, I'll be okay. She promised that I would still be a beautiful kitty!

Home now, trying to relax......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I have a big owie</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596139</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 23:46:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596139</guid>
		<description>Mom was brushing me tonight. She noticed that the tip of my ear had something stuck to it and she re ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom was brushing me tonight. She noticed that the tip of my ear had something stuck to it and she removed it. Bad idea. Turns out that I have a big owie on the tip of my ear and what mom found was a little scab.

Suddenly my ear started bleeding really bad! Ow! Mom cleaned it and applied pressure. I really didn't like that. She looked close and I have a cut on the tip of my ear. The cut is about a quarter of an inch long and it completely separates the tip of my ear. It must have happened a few days ago? Mom has no idea and I'm not telling.

She called the emergency vet and talked to them about whether I should be seen tonight. They said as long as she applies pressure and the bleeding stops, I don't need to be seen tonight. But I have to go see my vet tomorrow morning to have it evaluated and probably get a shot of antibiotics :( Maybe they will even give me stitches? 

Darn, what a bummer.


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Preparation and the Final Countdown</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596133</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 22:39:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/596133</guid>
		<description>My house is clean. Really, really clean. The vacuum monster was out of control tonight so I spent lo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My house is clean. Really, really clean. The vacuum monster was out of control tonight so I spent lots of time hiding under mom's bed. It was even really clean under there! Nesting is in full force.

We are about 12 hours away from the arrival of the boys. Mom says I'm still about a week away from meeting the boys face to face but I say that we'll see : ) 

I'm quite the meower and tend to sit outside closed doors and meow persistently in such a way that mom doesn't have a choice but to open the darn door. I'm pretty sure that having "brothers" on the other side of the door is going to elicit some serious Lucy chatter. 

We'll see how long mom can hold out......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Busy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/595609</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 10 Jun 2009 21:40:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/595609</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat, I've been so neglected this week! *pouts* Mom has been working and working and working an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat, I've been so neglected this week! *pouts* Mom has been working and working and working and then she comes home and works some more. And it seems like any time she gets a moment away from work she is cleaning and kitten-proofing. I think this may be the nesting behavior <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/439017">Nük</a></b> warned me about......

It's gotten so bad that I've barely had a chance to play on Catster! And this is the worst part- my favorite light up ball in the track toy stopped lighting up 5 days ago and mom STILL hasn't replaced it. I keep sitting next to it and staring at it, trying to clue my clueless mommy in. Not cool.

Hopefully this weekend will be very calm, laid back, and back to normal! *wink*

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Good News!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/595083</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 8 Jun 2009 22:52:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/595083</guid>
		<description>I've got good news ~ the boys were neutered today and are doing well! The vet said that as soon as t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've got good news ~ the boys were neutered today and are doing well! The vet said that as soon as they started waking up after the surgery, they were already trying to play with each other! Saturday looks to be the big day for TWO forever homecomings......

In other news, I've been tagged by my adorable friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/705319">Fluffee Bush!</a></b>

1. What color is your collar? – No collar for me

2. What kind of food do you eat? – Natural Balance Indoor wet food and Ziwi Peak venison 

3. What are your favorite treats? – No thanks, I've never liked treats

4. Do you have a Valentine or significant other? – Do mom or Sophie count? They are definitely my significant others!

5. Do you get Table Scraps? – No, my mom is a vegetarian and I don't want her table scraps!

6. What is your favorite toy? – My neon yellow mousie

7. When is your Birthday? – My birthday was around November 1st, 2001.

8. How many times a day do you get to eat? - 2-3 times a day. I'm on an all wet diet because I'm allergic to dry food.

9. Do you have a favorite color? – I am strangely drawn to neon green and neon yellow

10. Do you hope all your pals put this in their diary? - Open tag! If you want to play, please join in!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sundays are best when they start early!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/594682</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 7 Jun 2009 16:39:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/594682</guid>
		<description>I can't believe it's Sunday afternoon already! Mom worked late all of last week and then attended a  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I can't believe it's Sunday afternoon already! Mom worked late all of last week and then attended a conference Friday evening and all day Saturday. I feel like I haven't seen her in forever! 

I woke her up extra early this morning to make sure that I meet my full quota of weekend loving! When I was meowing in her ear this morning mom said I was a turkey. But then I had a little tummy upset (as evidenced by my very loose litterbox "movement" this morning) so mom felt kind of bad about the "turkey" comment.

We are in the final countdown to solve the "brothers" mystery. As long as all goes as planned, Saturday is the big day! Tomorrow the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/kitcloud3_Large.jpg">boys</a></b> get neutered. The rescue will contact mom by the end of the day to let her know how they are doing. Purring that all goes well!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm a winner!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/593718</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 3 Jun 2009 22:26:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/593718</guid>
		<description>It's official ~ I won the Cat in the Clover  butterfly bed in the auction for Aldo! It's official be ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's official ~ I won the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://thecatintheclover.etsy.com/">Cat in the Clover </a></b> butterfly bed in the auction for <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/797385">Aldo</a></b>! It's official because I have my new bed and I LOVE it!!! The bed was made by the cat in the clover <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283044">Calvin's</a></b> mom and donated to the auction by the lovely (and curly!) <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/672967">Isis</a></b> and family!

It usually takes me a few days to warm up to the idea of even trying out a new kitty bed. Much to mom's delight (and my delight!), last night I jumped up on the butterfly bed and started kneading and purring like crazy; I did that for more than 10 minutes! Then I laid down and didn't move for hours! Seriously, I slept in that bed all night night long. I LOVE it! 

The bed's much bigger than I was expecting and it's the perfect fleece fabric. Plus, it has butterflies on it!  Mom says there's room on there for me and a baby brother or two......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Meowing it out ~ repeatedly!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/593144</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 1 Jun 2009 20:15:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/593144</guid>
		<description>Today I've been doing my best to drive my mom a little nutty! I have a lot to say tonight but instea ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I've been doing my best to drive my mom a little nutty! I have a lot to say tonight but instead of walking up to mom and meowing it out, I've been shouting my meows from upstairs! Then mom comes up to check on me and I look at her with my "What's going on? Did you need something?" look.

Then once mom goes back downstairs, I start shouting meows out at her again! "MRRROOOEEEEWWWW!"

I meow and meow with all of my might until she comes back upstairs to see what all of the fuss is about. And what happens next? NOTHING! I give her a funny "Who me?' look and stare at her. She's goes back downstairs and the game starts all over again!

Fun stuff!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Samoa Says......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592727</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 31 May 2009 12:09:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592727</guid>
		<description>My friend Samoa has informed me as to what a little brother actually is. Read what Samoa says HERE!  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038">Samoa</a></b> has informed me as to what a little brother actually is. Read what <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038/diary/Samoa_says/592550">Samoa says HERE!</a></b> 

According to Samoa a little brother is a <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/883236">Newman!</a></b> And apparently one of my new <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/kitcloud3_Large.jpg">little brothers</a></b> even looks like Newman!

I haven't met these "brothers" just yet. They are (hopefully- mom's fingers are crossed) coming home in 12 days (apparently mom is counting down!) but mom says I won't get to meet them for about another week after that. Just pawsies under the door. Hmmm....

I am not going to despair. The back up plan is that I will move to California and live with Samoa and Newman can live in Arizona with the kittens. We'll sort out the mommy thing later; obviously my mommy is coming with ME wherever I go!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Concerned meows, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Decided!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592516</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 30 May 2009 14:53:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592516</guid>
		<description>Okay, so my mom totally hijacked my last diary entry to write about her indecision regarding adoptin ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Okay, so my mom totally hijacked my last diary entry to write about her indecision regarding adopting one kitty or adopting two kitties. Well, I'm still not entirely sure what a "brother" is so I don't know if I want one or two.

But you've got to love mom's diary ramblings that pretty much asked Catster parents if she should adopt one or two kittens. I mean, this is a website for kitties and the humans who love them, right?! What did she think was going to happen? Did she really think that cat lovers would see the photo of those kittens and say, "Just adopt one?" *Mom's edit- maybe that's why I finally posted the <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/kitcloud3_Large.jpg">Brothers</a> picture?!*

And, not surprisingly, the vast majority (pretty much all!) of the diary comments and pmails she received said, "GO FOR IT!" and "What's one more?" and "3 kitties isn't too many!" and "TAKE BOTH!"




Guess what?





Mom made a decision.





In two weeks, the stork (aka foster mom) is bringing two, yes, TWO brothers for me and Sophie!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Decisions, Decisions.....*Updated with a Photo!*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592339</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 May 2009 20:35:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592339</guid>
		<description>Mom came home with a new cat condo! It's a little smaller than my other ones; mom called it kitten-s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom came home with a new cat condo! It's a little smaller than my other ones; mom called it kitten-sized. Whatever. As long as I fit on it, I'm happy! And guess what? I fit on it!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

From Lucy's mom:
I met the kitty that I am hoping to adopt! He is adorable (of course, aren't they all?!!). He's in a foster home. He'll be neutered in a week and then come home with me in two weeks as long as all goes as planned. There is one little snag......

He has a brother. An adorable, feisty grey tabby brother. Someone was going to adopt the brother but that has fallen through. I can't decide what to do! My head is strongly telling me to just adopt one but my heart says adopt both. I met both tonight and of course, loved them both. But is it too much, is it unfair to Sophie and Lucy? I've only ever had two kitties and that was never too crazy. But would 3 be a little nutty?

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/kitcloud3_Large.jpg">Brothers</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>She's done it again!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592029</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 28 May 2009 19:17:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/592029</guid>
		<description>Guess what? Yesterday, my mom rearranged furniture AGAIN! Believe me, I let her know what I thought  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Guess what? Yesterday, my mom rearranged furniture AGAIN! Believe me, I let her know what I thought about that by chattering at her all day AND through the night! She said it has something to do with kitten-proofing......

Even though I really don't like change, I've decided that I approve of the recent rearrangement. She moved a kitty tree into her bedroom, right in front of one of my favorite windows! Oooh la la! I've only left the kitty tree today to eat and use the litterbox and then... right back to my perch in the tree looking out the window! I approve of kitten-proofing!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sophie's home!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/591511</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 26 May 2009 18:33:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/591511</guid>
		<description>Sophie's home! I was so excited when she walked through the door this morning that I headbonked her  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sophie's home! I was so excited when she walked through the door this morning that I headbonked her and then headbonked the wall and the floor! We've been napping all day which is the best way to spend the day!

Mom continues to make plans related to this "brother" business. Everything seems to be coming together and it looks like the kitty stork will be coming by our house in less than 3 weeks! Mom says I'm going to have to settle for playing pawsies under the door for a week or so before I actually meet him. And then I'll FINALLY know what all the "brother" fuss is about!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. Mom bought a new laptop charger cord. I'm kind of irritated with her as the cost of the new cord would have bought lots of kitty treats. Silly mom, leaving that cord somewhere......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>FINALLY!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/591224</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 May 2009 18:54:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/591224</guid>
		<description>Mom is FINALLY home! It was a long weekend without her. The kitty sitter said that I just wasn't mys ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is FINALLY home! It was a long weekend without her. The kitty sitter said that I just wasn't myself, especially for the first two days. I didn't want to play or anything. The kitty sitter told mom that I just kept pawing her and meowing. Probably because I was a little constipated AND there were thunderstorms. Yuck. 

I relaxed a little through the weekend; holy cat was I happy to see mom walk up to the front door today! I was in the window seat, meowing, kneading, and sticking my bottom and my tail up in the air as she was unlocking the door. I was SOOOOO happy to see her!

She got me some food and gave me my medicine right away because I had developed a new lesion above my right eye while she was gone. It's pretty small and I haven't been messing with it since she got home so hopefully it will go away quickly.

Sophie's not back yet; she's still boarding at the v-e-t's office. Mom got home too late to pick her up as their office closed early for the holiday. I really miss her, too! Mom will go pick her up first thing tomorrow morning and then we will have a couple of days together at home before mom goes back to work on Thursday.

I hope all of my kitty friends and their families had wonderful weekends! I didn't get any time on Catster while mom was gone and I missed all my friends. *pouts* But now everything is back to normal and I'm purring with happiness!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. My silly mom left her laptop charger cord somewhere between Chicago and Phoenix today! Thankfully she didn't lose her laptop! What a goofball- now we have to buy a new one!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kissy Face!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590367</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 May 2009 12:52:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590367</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

I snuck over onto the computer to check in on my Catster friends, quickly befor ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

I snuck over onto the computer to check in on my Catster friends, quickly before my kitty sitter comes over! I don't want the humans to know exactly how computer savvy and overall SMART us kitties are!

Mom left today and my vacadar superpowers were in full effect! I knew she was leaving AND I stayed healthy and happy!!! Mom took Sophie to Maui (aka the v-e-t's boarding) and then she came home and we played! That's right friends, I chased my glitter ball, played mousie fetch, groomed the feather wand, and played peek a boo with my ball track and tent! 

And then, mom and I cuddled and we played Kissy Face! That's where mom kisses my nose and head and ears and I repeatedly headbonk her and try to chew on her hair! Oh my cat, it was fun!

Have a great weekend! I'm off to take my nap......

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Meowing it out with love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I have a superpower!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590207</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 May 2009 21:35:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590207</guid>
		<description>My brilliant friend N&uuml;k has come up with a name for my superpower! He says I have Vacadar (aka Awayd ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My brilliant friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/439017">Nük</a></b> has come up with a name for my superpower! He says I have Vacadar (aka Awaydar)! I ALWAYS know when mom is going out of town. And I always seem to get sick right before she goes. But don't worry about my health, I have survived each trip AND my vacadar and subsequent illnesses have resulted in TWO cancelled trips! Mom stayed home with me!

Guess what? Mom's going out of town tomorrow. And I KNEW it! Sure, I had some constipation problems earlier this week. And sure, I tried to lick mom's deodorant this morning in an attempt to totally freak her out. AND yes, I've been a little clingy tonight and will probably throw up a big hairball on mom's shoe as she's walking out the door tomorrow, but....... 

So far, so good! My vacadar is still intact; I KNOW she's leaving but I'm still doing okay! In an attempt to thwart my superpower, <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet's</a></b> mom gave some advice to my mom. She suggested my mom work really hard at not worrying about me before or during her trip and that mom visualize me being healthy and happy and okay while she is gone. Thanks for the advice; so far it's helped me (and mom) feel better!

And thanks to Nük for naming my superpower! 


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Meowing it out with love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Oh geez</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590179</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 May 2009 19:19:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/590179</guid>
		<description>Oh geez, I don't like the way today is going. First, mom got her purple suitcase out and not just so ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh geez, I don't like the way today is going. First, mom got her purple suitcase out and not just so I could take a catnap on top of it. She actually put clothes and shoes and stuff IN it. Hmmm...

And then, when she got home from work, she got out that darn vacuum monster! He invaded all kinds of secret spots, including under mom's bed. And his hose mouth was all over my kitty trees! Not cool.

As if those two things weren't disturbing enough, it started raining tonight. While mom and the other humans may enjoy the rain, I'm not a fan and neither is Sophie. Today just hasn't been my day. *sigh*

Mom is traveling to celebrate my favorite uncle's graduation from high school. I hope that even after he goes to college he still comes to visit us. And I hope that when he comes to visit us, he still brings his (and my) favorite pillow! 

Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Meowing it out with lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Meowing it out! *updated*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589755</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 20 May 2009 22:00:47 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589755</guid>
		<description>When you are logged into Catster, the homepage of Catster has a funny little kitty greeting at the t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When you are logged into Catster, the homepage of Catster has a funny little kitty greeting at the top. It always says different kitty things like MOL or We're Furtunate to Have You or Pawlease Make Yourself at Home Sally &#9829; Sweet Angel, Lucy, and Sophie!

Today Catster greeted me with two of my all time favorites:

"Strut it on the catwalk!"

and 

"Meow it out!"


Meow it out is definitely my favorite and fits me perfectly! I do a lot of meowing it out! It might be my new Lucy Chatter motto! What does your personal Catster greeting say today?!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">Meowing it out with lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>

Update: Catster greeted me tonight with:

"You’re paw-inspiring!"

MOL! Love it!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Heatwave!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589605</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 19 May 2009 17:12:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589605</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat! It's been so hot here. It was 110 degrees yesterday and 106 today! That is really hot for ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat! It's been so hot here. It was 110 degrees yesterday and 106 today! That is really hot for May, especially because it's not really cooling down at night. Of course, I'm inside with the air-conditioning and ceiling fans but the weather has been just awful (and it's only May!).

Tonight we might get rain! The weather here has been so strange this year. Thunder, lightening, and rain tonight? *shudders*

I was wondering....would any of my kitty friends like to do some kind of a time-share thing? I'm thinking that I could come live with you in a cooler climate in the summer and then you could come live with me during the winter in Arizona? That could be fun, right? Oh, and Sophie would have to be part of the deal, I couldn't leave her behind!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Alarm Clock, Shalarm Clock</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589257</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 18 May 2009 12:51:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/589257</guid>
		<description>Normally on the weekdays, an alarm goes off and mom wakes up and feeds me and Sophie. Then she gets  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Normally on the weekdays, an alarm goes off and mom wakes up and feeds me and Sophie. Then she gets ready and leaves for work. Sometimes, about 20 minutes before her alarm goes off, I snuggle with her. I chew on her head, give her headbonks, make crazy nests in her hair, and of course, I chatter at her! 

Today, her alarm didn't go off. I was waiting and waiting and it just didn't make a peep. I tried to wake mom but she shooed me away, telling me to wait for the alarm. So I waited. And waited. And waited. It never went off! 

I'm not really much of a breakfast kitty so it wasn't a big deal to me, but I DO have Sophie's back and she likes to eat in the morning! So Sophie and I were camped out in the kitchen, waiting for that darn alarm! Finally, I couldn't wait any longer, so I started meowing and meowing and meowing. MEOW!

THAT woke mom up! As she was headed into the kitchen, she looked at the clock and saw......she had overslept by more than an hour! She had set the alarm clock but forgot to turn it on!!!

Lucky she has me!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The &quot;brother&quot; mystery is closer to being solved!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588804</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 16 May 2009 21:24:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588804</guid>
		<description>Well, this whole &quot;brother&quot; mystery is closer to being solved! Mom is making plans to visit my new br ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, this whole "brother" mystery is closer to being solved! Mom is making plans to visit my new brother in his foster home in about 2 weeks. Some traveling (he's about 2 hours away) will be required because he is not in our town (yet!). After the visit, mom will come home and my baby brother will stay in his foster home and go to the doctor to get his grapes removed (I wouldn't really know a thing about that as my family is all girls but I remember my friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/883236">Newman</a></b> talking about it!). The following week, if all goes as planned, the foster mother will drive the kitty to my house, do a home visit, and finalize the adoption!

We have some photos of my possible new baby brother but mom is not ready to share them yet until the adoption is official! I CAN say that he is ADORABLE and my mom is IN LOVE! 

Some may wonder why we might be adopting a kitty from so far away when we live in a big city and there are obviously lots of wonderful kitties here that need homes. Mom has thought a lot about that and there are a couple of reasons. 

For some reason (maybe a guiding nudge from our angel Sally), when mom was casually looking at adoptable kitties, this kitty kept coming up at the top of her search lists. He is not available for adoption until June which works perfectly for us based on mom's travels in May. 

Mom decided to go ahead and contact the organization that is fostering him, just to ask about him *wink* His foster mom described him as a very laid-back cuddler who likes to sit in her lap and have his belly rubbed! The organization typically only adopts out locally in their community but they have had lots of communication with mom and are willing to adopt to us if we are the best home!

Another reason that this kitty seems like a perfect fit is that he has been in a foster home for most of his life and has not been exposed to lots of kitties and possible illness in a shelter. Mom likes to adopt from the local shelter (where both Sophie and I came from) but because of my health issues and the immune-suppressant medication I take, it's important to lessen the possiblity of exposure to illness. 

And the other reason that we are hoping to adopt this specific kitty is that mom is IN LOVE with him and can't stop thinking about him!

I'm still not sure what I think about this brother business but I would really like somecat to cuddle with! I'll keep you updated!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'll have a baby toe for dinner, please</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588553</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 May 2009 21:11:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588553</guid>
		<description>Tonight I pounced on mom's laptop cord while she was writing a report for work. I tried to chew on t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tonight I pounced on mom's laptop cord while she was writing a report for work. I tried to chew on the cord but she quickly nudged me away with her foot and then moved the cord up high. No fun. *pouts* 

The fun wasn't over! I then pounced on mom's foot, put her entire baby toe in my mouth and gnawed on it! She jumped a mile in the air and made an "eeeeeek" sound! I just laid there on my back with my belly exposed and paws in the air, watching her. It was funny! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. My mom works at the same agency as the mom of Catster <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">* Onyx *</a></b>. He has been very, very sick. He has CRF and may also have Cushing's Disease which is rare for kitties. His mom is SO worried about him; he is her little cuddlebug and she loves him SO much. Tomorrow they will spend all day at the vet's office for all kinds of tests to determine if he has Cushing's. Please join me in purring for Onyx and for his loving mommy.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Summer is here!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588159</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 14 May 2009 15:50:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/588159</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends,

There's not anything new and exciting to report here (YET!). It's been very, ve ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends,

There's not anything new and exciting to report here (YET!). It's been very, very hot outside and our air conditioning is on full-blast! Sophie and I have not been cuddling; it's just too hot for that. Mom's been working quite a bit; to show my displeasure, I've been keeping her on her toes by increasing my attempts to chew on her laptop's electrical cord. She doesn't think it's funny.

I've been a hungry kitty lately. That makes mom happy; she would love to see me get back up to 10 pounds one day which was my weight until I started getting sick 4 years ago. Now I weigh 9.1 pounds and mom and the v-e-t think I am still too skinny. Oh well, I'm hungry and I have been eating quite a bit lately, I don't know what more they want from me.

The "brother" mystery has still not been solved. Mom says that everything will be figured out sometime in June so I just have to wait patiently (yeah, right!) to find out what this brother business is about.

In the meantime, I am keeping busy eating, napping, and smacking my mousies around. I've also decided that a good place to sleep is inside the guest bedroom closet on top of mom's purple suitcase (that's so I can make sure she doesn't go anywhere. MOL!).

Hope you are all doing well! Talk to you later ~ I've got to go sit and face the wall and stare at it for a little while. 


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>OMC!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/587369</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 11 May 2009 17:54:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/587369</guid>
		<description>OMC! Have you checked out the  * Auction * for Aldo today? Wow! So many super cool things to bid on! ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ OMC! Have you checked out the  <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://catsterauctions.blogspot.com/">* Auction *</a></b> for Aldo today? Wow! So many super cool things to bid on!

If we lived anywhere near the United Kingdom or were traveling in that direction, we'd be all over <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://catsterauctions.blogspot.com/2009/05/auction-item-71-three-nights-at.html">auction item # 71!</a></b> Amazing!

And <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://catsterauctions.blogspot.com/2009/05/auction-item-65-professional-pet.html">auction item # 65!</a></b> is something that all Catsters would love to have! I wonder how long my bid will stand?! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Mother's Day and Support for a Special Catster Mom and Family</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/587024</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 10 May 2009 15:19:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/587024</guid>
		<description>Happy Mother's Day to all of the wonderful mothers on Catster! Casterland is full of so many amazing ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Happy Mother's Day to all of the wonderful mothers on Catster! Casterland is full of so many amazing kitties and their parents and my favorite part of Caster is when kitties join together to help others in need.

For example, one truly amazing mom has been part of two wonderful Catster efforts to help others. She recently helped transport beautiful <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/980558">Gabby</a></b> to her new home and loving family AND she played an essential part of the amazing rescue last year by taking in sweet <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/797385">Aldo</a></b> and becoming his new mommy.

And now Aldo and family could use extra purrs and support as he battles illness. If you would like to help, please go <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Q4aldo-16260">* HERE *</a></b> and join this very special group. 

Also, please check out the fantastic <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://catsterauctions.blogspot.com/">* Auction *</a></b> in support of Aldo and family. There are some really cool things, including Hello Kitty stuff and lots of pretty kitty jewelry. There are lots of items that would make great gifts or would be perfect to keep for yourself (I REALLY want that butterfly bed!). 

And here's another idea: I'm bidding on the children's clothes and toy items, even though we don't have any kids. Whatever I win (except the kitty bed; if I win that, I'm keeping it! MOL!), I am going to donate the items to a local non-profit organization to help children in my community who are in need. You would be amazed at how a coloring book and crayons can brighten the day of a child who has never had his or her very own brand new box of crayons!  

These are tough times for lots of people, kitties, and families and this is a way to help both Aldo and his family AND children and families in your community!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">lots of love, 
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>In loving memory of Sally</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/586460</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 8 May 2009 22:15:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/586460</guid>
		<description>Tomorrow, May 9th, is the one year anniversary of my beautiful sister Sally's crossing to the rainbo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tomorrow, May 9th, is the one year anniversary of my beautiful sister <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310180">Sally's</a></b> crossing to the rainbow bridge. 

Sally was the first kitty in my mom’s life. My mom grew up with dogs (and her human family members, of course!). Mom and Sophie did live with a roommate in college who had a cat but mom had never been a kitty mom before. About 6 months after mom graduated from college, she was working for a child abuse prevention program and she made home visits to families in many different parts of Phoenix. One day, in July 1999, she was visiting with a family in their home. When she left the home, she met some children in the neighborhood who showed her some kittens. She held one little kitten and this kitten snuggled against her chest and fell asleep. Mom stayed there and held this sleeping baby close to her. She had never seen such a tiny kitten and she had never seen such an adorable baby. This kitty was white with a black nose, black ears, and blue eyes. She looked a bit like a baby koala bear!

When mom left, she couldn’t stop thinking about the kitten (of course now mom can’t even believe that she left without the kitten; she would obviously do things very differently to make sure all of the kitties were cared for if this situation occurred now). But she didn’t know ANYTHING about kittens or cats and she didn't think she would be a very good kitty mom. When she went back to the neighborhood a few days later, she was told that the mother kitty had not returned and the other kittens had been ill and crossed to the bridge. 

Only one kitten was still alive, the baby koala bear kitten. Mom KNEW the kitten was coming home with her; she immediately drove this tiny little kitten to the emergency vet. The kitty was very, very ill with an URI and she weighed only 1 pound. She was also covered in fleas and had a pretty serious eye infection. The ER vet took good care of her and also gave mom a “kitten starter kit” with kitten food and a little litter box and litter since mom didn’t have any kitty necessities! Seriously friends, mom didn’t know a thing about kitties.

Mom took the kitten home. The kitten was kind of a mess; all wet from the flea bath and she had goopy medicine in her eyes and in her ears. When mom set the kitten on the floor, Sophie (our dog) came over, sniffed her, and then laid down on the floor. The kitten went over to her and tried to nurse off of Sophie!!! Sophie gave mom a look that seemed to say, “What IS this? And what is it DOING?” But she let the kitten curl up next to her and she grew to love the kitten.

That little kitten grew into our beautiful sweet Sally cat. Throughout her life she loved to curl up and sleep on mom’s chest, just like when she was a tiny baby. She had a very quiet meow but had a very loud purr and she LOVED to knead. 

Sally wasn’t so sure about me when Mom brought me home but we co-existed peacefully for the most part (when I wasn’t chasing her up and down the stairs!). Three days before Sally passed away, mom caught us sitting together on the back of the couch, looking at each other. We were facing each other and we both leaned forward until our noses touched. And we sat that way for a few seconds, with our noses pressed together. It was very sweet; we had never done that before. Maybe Sally and I both knew Sally was sick and that our time together was coming to an end. 

Mom didn’t know. On May 9th, 2008 Sally suddenly went into congestive heart failure. After hours at the emergency room as the vet and cardiologist attempted to stabilize Sally, mom had to make a decision that broke her heart. Sally had always been so healthy and mom had naively thought that Sally would live to be at least 20 years old. Instead, we had to say good bye to our sweet Sally too soon and too suddenly.

As Sally’s one year bridge anniversary approaches, I would like to tell her that I miss her and I love her, forever.



<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Pawty Continues!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/586251</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 May 2009 18:47:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/586251</guid>
		<description>I gave mom a very exciting surprise today! I've been having some c-o-n-s-t-i-p-a-t-i-o-n problems re ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I gave mom a very exciting surprise today! I've been having some c-o-n-s-t-i-p-a-t-i-o-n problems recently and have not been using the litterbox (once again, TMI! My litterbox happenings have become an obsession around our house lately!). Well, after 5 days of my special medicine, I decided that I was ready to re-establish a relationship with my litterbox. Mom made a big deal out of it- she was really happy! I really don't think it's all that exciting but, hey, whatever keeps mom happy (and gets me extra treats and loving)! Now if only she'll stop putting that icky medicine on my paw......

On another note, something fishy is going on around here. Mom just filled out some kind of an application and has been talking about some kind of new addition coming in early June. Oh, "brother!" I wonder what that means......

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Catster Anniversary!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/585662</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 5 May 2009 20:14:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/585662</guid>
		<description>Tomorrow is my three year Catster anniversary! Three years ago today mom got an email from Aunt Sara ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tomorrow is my three year Catster anniversary! Three years ago today mom got an email from Aunt Sarah saying that <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">cousin Max</a></b> had his very own webpage. Of course Sally, Sophie, and I each needed our own pages, too! And here we are : )

There's another anniversary in our family this week. This Saturday, May 9th, marks one year since my sweet kitty sister Sally suddenly crossed to the bridge. It's kind of fitting that these two anniversaries fall only days apart as Catster and our Catster friends have been so thoughtful and supportive in helping our family process our grief and heartbreak over Sally's passing.

I love Catster and my Catster friends, so fun in good times and so supportive in sad times. Here's to the next three years of Catster!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tuxedo Kitty Makes a Guest Appearance!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/585164</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 May 2009 11:52:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/585164</guid>
		<description>This past weekend my mom was in Camarillo, CA for her brother's (my uncle Pete's) wedding. She was t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This past weekend my mom was in Camarillo, CA for her brother's (my uncle Pete's) wedding. She was telling me about a classic kitty moment on her trip:

The wedding was outside in a huge, tiered garden over-looking (strawberry?) fields and a beautiful mountain. When mom first arrived for the wedding, she saw a big, long-haired black and white tuxedo kitty chasing bugs in the garden and hanging out under some tables. She talked to the woman who lives there; the kitty's name is County and he is a very sweet and friendly and BIG guy. He lives on the property with his mom and spends his time hanging out in the gardens.

During the ceremony, the bride and groom and the minister were standing on a stone platform under an arch of flowers. County started walking down the side aisle towards the ceremony. As he neared the front of the ceremony, one of the musicians tried to hold him but County had his mind made up- he was headed up front! 

He walked into the flowers near the bride and groom and disappeared. Moments later he reappeared by jumping right up on the stone stage! He walked the length of the platform, circled back and sat down next to the minister (who was in the middle of performing the ceremony!), facing the bride and groom and the audience. Then he rubbed up agaist the flowery archway and chewed a little on the greens! Finally, he jumped off and moseyed past some of the seated guests, got some loving, and wandered away. 

Mom said it was SO cute! Even uncle Pete thought it was pretty funny and he's never been mistaken as a cat guy. For a moment it seemed like the kitty might rub on the bride's dress but he changed his mind!

The best part was that the kitty came dressed for the wedding in his tuxedo! 


<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Woo-hoo!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/584903</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 3 May 2009 13:39:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/584903</guid>
		<description>Woo-hoo! Mom and Sophie are FINALLY home! I was so excited when they walked through the front door;  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Woo-hoo! Mom and Sophie are FINALLY home! I was so excited when they walked through the front door; I couldn't stop chattering at them about how much I missed them! 

I made it through the weekend with my kitty sitter. Unfortunately, I didn't p-o-o-p the ENTIRE time mom was gone! It's kind of a mixed blessing- I ate my food and drank lots of water and didn't have any diarrhea or vomiting. But no poops either! 

My kitty sitter gave me my medicine to help me use the litterbox but mom has found some (most) of the medicine gel stuff all over the house. When the kitty sitter gave it to me, I probably took off zooming through the house, shaking it off and hiding it so she wouldn't know I didn't take it. I don't like that medicine. But Mom gave me some as soon as she got home. She knows some secret mom tricks so I wasn't able to hide it anywhere. I had to lick it off my paw. Yuck.

Hopefully I'll use the litterbox soon; Mom says I will feel a whole lot better once I do. Plus, if I use it soon I won't have to go the v-e-t tomorrow. That wouldn't be cool. 

My diary entries have had quite a litterbox theme lately. Paws crossed that a cooler, less intimate theme surfaces soon!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>


P.S. A big concats to my dear gal pal <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514#diary">Annadee</a></b> for being honored as the Diary of the Day! Look at how cute she looks on Catster's homepage!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Litter Box Party, Anyone?!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583915</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 01:15:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583915</guid>
		<description>I'm happy to share TMI once again! I followed Kaci's  encouraging words and &quot;produced, very firmly!&quot; ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm happy to share TMI once again! I followed <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/497628">Kaci's</a></b>  encouraging words and "produced, very firmly!" Mom did her weirdo-mom-litterbox-dance. I was a little disgruntled and have been attempting to groom away all memories of the horrid event. And now I'm all ready for the litter box pawty at my house; great idea <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Rocky Ann!</a></b> 

I'll chat with you all on the other side of my kitty sitter weekend!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Still Waiting!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583900</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:44:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583900</guid>
		<description>Hovering mommy is still stationed on litterbox watch. I haven't given her any litterbox &quot;information ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hovering mommy is still stationed on litterbox watch. I haven't given her any litterbox "information" for the past two days! I think I am driving her crazy. But I am playing, eating, drinking, and grooming so she is trying (trying is the key word!) to chill out about the whole thing. And the kitty sitter is aware that I haven't been feeling well so she promised mom that she would give me lots and lots of extra loving (and clean up if needed)!

Mom's going to California for her brother's wedding. She said that if I liked the car, she would take me with her (although my uncle Pete probably wouldn't be too excited about a kitty at his wedding!). I told mom that 1 minute in the car is too long so no thanks! Maybe I should have a kitty party while she's gone?! The entertainment could be the big slow pigeons that like to walk around in front of the windows! I'm telling you, it's quite a show!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. I'm loving the new comment section on the diaries!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Today</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583623</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 22:30:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/583623</guid>
		<description>I didn't want to worry my Catster friends so I've been waiting to update my diary until I felt bette ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I didn't want to worry my Catster friends so I've been waiting to update my diary until I felt better. I have been sick with diarrhea and a bit of vomiting (maybe that moth was the problem?). Mom keeps saying something about the "timing" of this illness; whatever that means. I am definitely feeling a bit better today and did some massive (and much needed) grooming. Hovering mommy is on litterbox watch, waiting for my next "movement" and praying for firmness (was that TMI?!). 

Thank you for the sweet purrs and messages. Please keep me in your purrs over the next few days as mom heads to the wedding and I get over this illness.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A new day!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582890</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:44:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582890</guid>
		<description>A new day and I am feeling much better! I started perking up last night, grooming myself and even gi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A new day and I am feeling much better! I started perking up last night, grooming myself and even giving my mousie a little play time!

My mom is definitely getting ready to go to another wedding; she was pulling fancy clothes and shoes out of the closet. The suitcase hasn't come out just yet but I'm pretty sure that's next! 

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Some improvement</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582634</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Apr 2009 16:14:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582634</guid>
		<description>Today is a new day and my lip looks a little better. It's a little discolored and crusty and still a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today is a new day and my lip looks a little better. It's a little discolored and crusty and still a little droopy, but no swelling. I really don't like mom to look at it too closely, she said that later on today we are going to cuddle and she is going to clean it very lightly with a damp washcloth.

I'm eating, drinking and using the litterbox but I don't feel like grooming or playing. Maybe, as some of my silly friends suggested, I DID get that moth and that's part of the problem? Or maybe that shot is making me feel kind of crummy today......

Thanks for the purrs and for thinking of me. I hope to feel much better tomorrow!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Back from the vet</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582433</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:38:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582433</guid>
		<description>My lip was really itchy today! It felt funny and swelled up and caused the left side of my mouth to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My lip was really itchy today! It felt funny and swelled up and caused the left side of my mouth to droop in a strange way. Hovering mommy was all over that, scooping me up and taking me to the v-e-t. My regular v-e-t wasn't available; she's in San Diego getting married tommorrow (Concats Dr. M!). So I saw another vet and she gave me a shot to help relieve the swelling in my lip.

I felt kind of sick right afterwards and mom and I had a rough car ride home. But then, as soon as we walked in the door and I emerged from my carrier, I ran into the kitchen to EAT! Holy cat, those shots make me HUNGRY! I then played a little and am now taking a nap. I'm feeling better and my lip is not getting any bigger. That's good because it might be hard to eat with a fat lip and like I said before, I'm HUNGRY!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

Update from Mom:

The vet said that her lip was definitely inflammed and swollen. She said it looked like an allergic reaction to something (this is starting to be a major theme in the story of Lucy's life- an allergic reaction to SOMETHING). The vet gave Lucy a low dose of an anti-inflammatory steroid shot. Hopefully it helps although it was disappointing to have to go that route again. But she already looks better and that's a relief.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Like Clockwork</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582352</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:17:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582352</guid>
		<description>From Lucy's mom:

I am going out of town in less than a week and, like clockwork, something is goi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ From Lucy's mom:

I am going out of town in less than a week and, like clockwork, something is going on with little Lucy. I'd noticed while videotaping her earlier in the week and watching the video back that she looked a little "scruffy" and her chin looked a little dark/shadowy. Today I looked closely at her chin and noticed some kitty acne. Not a big deal to most kitties but seems to be a precursor to Lucy developing bigger issues. I then brushed her and she was purring up a storm, stretching and kneading and drooling. Drooling is a little unusual for her. I looked closer. Her bottom lip, left side, is swollen and tinged with red. She then proceeded to scratch the heck out of it so now I know it's itchy, too.

Okay, I've got a few days to get this sorted out. I called our vet and... she's out of town (getting married) for the next week and a half! I'm a little panicky now. All of the vets are out of town, at her wedding, except one that I don't know. She's going to call me back this afternoon to talk about it and discuss whether I need to bring her in today or keep an eye on it until tomorrow.

Lucy's eating, drinking, playing. Am I just totally paranoid? And why does this keep happening right before I go out of town? The kitty sitter was here on Wednesday- maybe this is stress-related and that set it off? Otherwise, I haven't started packing or anything to have really set Lucy off. I must just give out an anxious-mom-about-to-travel vibe. But I'm not the only mom in Catster who worries about this, right? : )

Update:
The vet wants to see her right away because Lucy's never had a problem with swollen lips so off to the vet we go......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who, me?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582181</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/582181</guid>
		<description>Tonight while mom was cleaning out my litterboxes, a kitty who looked just like me, sounded just lik ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tonight while mom was cleaning out my litterboxes, a kitty who looked just like me, sounded just like me, and is also named Lucy decided to "help." She was headbonking the litterbox, climbing on top of and underneath the covered litterbox hood, digging the litter out of the box, and even swiping at mom with her spotted paw!

Then this pseudo-Lucy got the zoomies and was running all over the place, meowing and howling up a storm! When mom was finished and she came down the stairs into the living room, the first thing she saw was me, all curled up on top of my kitty tree. No other Lucys in sight. I looked up at her as if to say, "Who, me? Why, I never!" and then I laid my head back down to take a kitty nap.

That "other" Lucy sure is one wild kitty! *wink wink!*

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hi!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581902</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 22 Apr 2009 23:02:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581902</guid>
		<description>The last couple of days have been a little odd. My mom's been home sick with the stomach flu. Normal ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The last couple of days have been a little odd. My mom's been home sick with the stomach flu. Normally it's lots of fun to have her home but she has been too sick to play or do much of anything. She hasn't even let me play on Catster! B.O.R.I.N.G!

Then today my kitty sitters came over. How weird is that? My kitty sitters were here and mom was here, too? It just didn't make a lot of sense to have the sitters and mom here at the same time. Mom showed the kitty sitters how to give me my medicine and how to work our new security system. Does this mean that mom is going out of town soon? I have heard some talk of a wedding in California...

I hope that all my kitty friends are doing well!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. The <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/lucy_chatter">moth</a></b>  is missing and I'm not telling if he finally escaped or if I finally got him! MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Chatter!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581233</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 22:58:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581233</guid>
		<description>He's baaaaack! 

Mr. Moth reappeared tonight and I told Sophie and mom all about it! Guess what mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ He's baaaaack! 

Mr. Moth reappeared tonight and I told Sophie and mom all about it! Guess what mom did? She made a video of my chatter! If you would like to hear my voice and see me in action <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/lucy_chatter">go watch the video!</a></b> 

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. At about 1:20 in the video, I show off my prairie dog dancing skills! MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The watchcat finally took a nap...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581079</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:21:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/581079</guid>
		<description>I couldn't hold out any longer. I had been obsessively stalking casually keeping an eye on that huge ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I couldn't hold out any longer. I had been <a style="text-decoration:line-through">obsessively stalking</a> casually keeping an eye on that huge moth camped out on my ceiling for nearly 48 hours when I suddenly felt my eye lids getting heavy......

"Just one little catnap!" I thought to myself as I laid my head down on my paws and fell asleep. 

And when I awoke, that darn moth was gone! I spent a couple of hours this morning staring at the ceiling, hoping he would reappear, but he didn't. Darn.

And to make matters worse, while I was catnapping last night, mom found a HUGE spider in the kitchen! *mom's edit- it was, by far, the biggest spider I have ever seen in real life. It's legs were at least 2 inches long each and it had a big fuzzy brown body and a bunch of eyes. I think it was <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2006/01/26/giant-crab-spider/">THIS</a></b> kind of spider. I didn't realize I was afraid of spiders until I came upon that beast INSIDE my house. I screamed* 

Well, I missed ALL that excitement (which is a good thing in mom's opinion). By the time I woke up (thanks to mom's scream) and came downstairs, stretching and yawning, the spider was gone. Darn.

Hey, even a watchcat has to get a little shut eye every now and again.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Update!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580824</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 19:33:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580824</guid>
		<description>There is a moth camped out on my ceiling (I discussed him in my last diary entry). I have an importa ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ There is a moth camped out on my ceiling (I discussed him in my last diary entry). I have an important update regarding this intruder:

He moved a little to the left.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love and lots of loud chirpy chattering,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Guaranteed to drive a kitty CRAZY! *updated with a working link*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580735</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:33:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580735</guid>
		<description>Oh kitty friends, it's been a loooong weekend in my house. First of all, for the second time in two  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh kitty friends, it's been a loooong weekend in my house. First of all, for the second time in two months, mom accidently put my Ziwipeak food into the fridge instead of back in the cupboard. Yuck. Since it's a special food, we have to wait for a new bag to come in the mail later this week. Ugh. 

But that's only a little bit of the loooong weekend. The real kicker was that a HUGE moth flew into MY house! I've been stalking it for two days. He has settled onto the ceiling in the stairway so he is way up high. Even mom can't reach him. He parked there and has not really moved. I can tell you that he hasn't moved because I have been camped out on the stairs all weekend staring at him and, of course, chattering at him. I think mom and Sophie are tired of hearing about him from me. But seriously, how much longer can he stay up there?

I'll let you know! MOL!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/980558">Look who has a new sister!</a></b> *Thanks to an amazing collaboration of Catster Mommies!*]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>What is THAT?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580459</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Apr 2009 18:06:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580459</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

Today after a massiving zooming session, I was hanging out in my cat tree. All  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

Today after a massiving zooming session, I was hanging out in my cat tree. All of a sudden this fuzzy black thing started twitching and thumping all around me! I kept trying to get it, turning myself in circles in the process. Finally, I caught it! I pinned it down and gave it a good grooming but it kept twitching and thumping, even smacking me in the nose! 

Mom tried to tell me that it was my own tail but she was obviously mistaken, I've NEVER seen that thing before! She got out her videocamera to capture the chaos on film but as soon as I saw the camera I hopped down and ran out of the room! MOL!


<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Therapy Dog</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580385</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:14:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580385</guid>
		<description>When mom takes Sophie for her walks, I watch from the window seat (and do a lot of headbonking the w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom takes Sophie for her walks, I watch from the window seat (and do a lot of headbonking the window!). Their walks are usually uneventful although every once in awhile something makes the walks a little more eventful. Today was one of THOSE days...

5 boys (about 10-12 years old) were running around, chasing each other with toy swords and some type of toy guns (air guns? pellet guns?). Well, Sophie was sniffing around and mom was walking behind her and I was watching from the window. Sophie stopped sniffing and looked up at the boys, her tail wagging. All of a sudden the boys noticed Sophie and they stopped, crouched down, and AIMED their (toy) guns at Sophie and mom!!!

Mom immediately said, "Do NOT shoot those guns at me or my dog" as she stepped in front of Sophie. The boys said, "Oh no, we won't SHOOT them." Mom said, "It's not okay to even point your guns at people or animals, ever." The boys were surprised about that. Ah-ha! Teachable moment!

Mom and Sophie spent some more time outside with the kids, and the boys got to pet and make friends with my doggie (lucky boys!). Mom hoped that having a positive interaction with sweet Sophie will increase their capacities for empathy for animals. Maybe Sophie was the child therapist today?! The kids promised mom they would never point or shoot their guns at people or animals, including the feral kitties in the neighborhood, again. 

Mom's got her eye on those kids. Sophie does, too, but only because she wants more pets and loving! And me, I'll just watch from the safety of my window! 

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The weekend is here!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580149</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:07:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/580149</guid>
		<description>It's Friday afternoon and mom is home from work (still has paperwork to do, of course)! Woo-hoo, the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's Friday afternoon and mom is home from work (still has paperwork to do, of course)! Woo-hoo, the weekend is here! In celebration I have been busy doing <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/playtime">this!</a></b>

My head and lesions have looked much better over the past few days. Mom has a special medicine to put on my head when it itches but the medicine seems to draw my attention to the lesions and I scratch and over-groom. So she decided not to put the medicine on my head this time and the lesions did seem to clear up more quickly. Mom is almost positive that this latest outbreak was directly related to opening the windows on a windy day. Bummer.

I am continuing to purr and purr and purr for sweet little <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a></b>, her brother <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/620637">Armani</a></b>, and their amazing, fantastic, wonderful mom!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Purrs for Muppet and Armani</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/579659</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:43:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/579659</guid>
		<description>Please join me in purring for sweet little Muppet and her mom after they received devastating news a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Please join me in purring for sweet little <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a></b> and her mom after they received devastating news at the v-e-t's office today. Muppet's brother <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/620637">Armani</a></b> is also in need of purrs as he has to go back to the v-e-t tomorrow for a special blood letting procedure. Purring for my friends.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. I am proud to be a <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Muppets_bucket_hq_approved_fundraiser-15216">Muppethead</a></b> and I just know that Muppetheads all across Catsterland will unite in purrs for Muppet and Armani!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kissed!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/579529</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:57:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/579529</guid>
		<description>Rocky Ann kissed me! She's been spending her day kissing lots of girls! I love kisses and I love and ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Rocky Ann</a></b> kissed me! She's been spending her day kissing lots of girls! I love kisses and I love and ADORE Rocky Ann!


<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mondays aren't so bad!/ Updated</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/578974</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:38:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/578974</guid>
		<description>I've decided that Mondays aren't so bad. Although it's kind of rough for mom because she has to go b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've decided that Mondays aren't so bad. Although it's kind of rough for mom because she has to go back to work, I get a chance to rest and relax after two whole days of entertaining mom by letting her pet me, love me, and give me treats. 

That's hard work for a kitty so today I'm taking it easy. I gave myself a bath this morning and then I took a big nap. I woke up, ate some lunch, and then took another nap on mom's bed. A perfect day!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

UPDATE: Today just got even better! My mom's last two clients cancelled for the day so now mom is home doing paperwork for the rest of the day! After my afternoon nap I think I will go sprawl out across mom's keyboard and paperwork piles for my early evening nap!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Darn!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/578118</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:17:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/578118</guid>
		<description>Darn! My itchies are back! Over the past two days I have developed 5 small (dime sized lesions) on m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Darn! My itchies are back! Over the past two days I have developed 5 small (dime sized lesions) on my head. One is by my eye, one is by my ear, and the other three are scattered between my eyes and ears on my head. Mom saw the one by my ear right away but a couple of the others were hidden under my face fur. She confirmed those lesions today when I was sleeping in a puddle of sunlight and she could get a good look.

It has been really nice here (although a little windy!) so mom opened the windows a couple of times this week. She knew it was a gamble with all of my environmental allergies but was hopeful that with my new medicine I wouldn't react. Plus, I LOVE when the windows are open! Unfortunately, mom thinks the open windows let in environmental allergens. So the windows are now closed : ( 

But do not despair! Now comes the real test: my medicine should suppress my immune system so that I don't get too itchy and then these lesions should clear up without causing fur loss or scabs (from itching and over grooming). Keep your paws crossed!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Serious Warning to My Nemesis</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/577424</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 8 Apr 2009 11:14:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/577424</guid>
		<description>Dear Vacuum Monster,

I don't like you. You are loud and obnoxious. You kind of smell funny, too.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Dear Vacuum Monster,

I don't like you. You are loud and obnoxious. You kind of smell funny, too. You are too hungry and your food of choice seems to be cat hair, dog hair, and kitty toys. Not cool.

What's your fascination with kitty hair, anyways? And what about my <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567553">felt ball</a></b>? It wasn't enough to eat it, you had to incinerate it, too?

This past weekend your behavior completely crossed the line. In a matter of five minutes, your awful hose mouth sucked up THREE of my perfectly good mousies! I had them hidden for a reason! Stay out of my secret hidey spots (ha-ha, I have some you don't know about!)!

Saturday's Mousie Massacre was completely unprovoked and only further illustrates your obvious sociopathic nature. Your criminal behavior and lack of empathy and remorse truly indicate a serious personality disorder on your part.

This is a final warning. I'm serious, vacuum monster. No more trouble from you! Don't forget my cord chewing skills. In a matter of moments I could bring you down forever.


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: red">No purrs for you,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. On behalf of my doggie sister Sophie, keep your stinking hose mouth out of her doggie den, too!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>MOM! I want some Catster time!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/576786</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Apr 2009 14:13:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/576786</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat, my mom has been just swamped with work! She worked all weekend, only stopping long enough ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat, my mom has been just swamped with work! She worked all weekend, only stopping long enough to bring out the vacuum monster who did UNSPEAKABLE things to three, yes THREE, of my mousies (RIP mousies). And when mom gets swamped with work, I hardly get the chance to play with my Catster friends *hisses at work* I haven't even gotten enough computer time to thank my friends for their pmails and rosettes last week. It's just not fair.

I miss you all and hope to have more time to play later this week!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mousie?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/575903</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 3 Apr 2009 14:59:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/575903</guid>
		<description>Mousie? Oh mousie?! Where are you, my little brown courduroy mouise? 

Here mousie, mousie! 

Mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mousie? Oh mousie?! Where are you, my little brown courduroy mouise? 

Here mousie, mousie! 

Mousie? Hmmm. Where did you go, my little mousie?

Oh, that's right, you can't hear me calling you. You can't hear me because I ripped both your ears off last night and left them on mom's pillow! MOL!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>DDP! Thank you!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/575365</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 19:55:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/575365</guid>
		<description>Thanks to the diary gal for picking my diary as a daily diary pick! She probably thinks the Growly G ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks to the diary gal for picking my diary as a daily diary pick! She probably thinks the Growly Girls rockband is a good idea! MOL! Thanks to my friends for the pmails and rosettes ~ it's been a fun day!

Mom just got home from work and after she fixed me and Sophie special dinners (yep, Sophie gets to celebrate, too!), mom was reading me the sweet messages from my friends! Thank you!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. If you haven't had a chance to stop by my page and sign my new guestbook, please come by and sign! Even President Obama (that's right, the PRESIDENT!) came by and signed it! MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Growly GirlS!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574785</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:15:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574785</guid>
		<description>A couple of weeks ago I wrote a diary about me, the growly girl. Guess what? It turns out that two o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A couple of weeks ago I wrote a diary about me, the <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/569006">growly girl</a></b>. Guess what? It turns out that two of my best gal pals, <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Annadee</a></b> and <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Reena</a></b>, are also growly girls! Growly girl is even Annadee's nickname! 

If we had a kitty girl rock band, I think that would be our name: the Growly Girls! And my dear gal pal <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">&#9829;Chloe&#9829;</a></b> could play the drums since she's so good at pork-chopping! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Easter Tag</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574523</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 13:50:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574523</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged by the sweet and ever so lovely Alexis Tippy!

If you've been tagged, copy the qu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged by the sweet and ever so lovely <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Alexis Tippy</a></b>!

If you've been tagged, copy the questions, answer them, and then tag 5 other lucky kitties! 

What is your favorite color for Easter eggs?
Mom wants me to say purple or pink or sparklies because those are her favorite colors but the truth is, my favorite color is neon yellow/green! Seriously, if you lined up 100 different colored mousies I would pick the yellowish green neon mousie every time! *Mom's edit- it is truly a hideous color but it really is her favorite*

Would you rather be a bunny or a chick?
Would I rather EAT a bunny or a chick? Was that the question (or was that comment in poor taste?)? MOL!

How many Easter eggs do you think you'll find when you get to hunt them at your house?
Can you believe it, I'm ALLERGIC to eggs!!! So there will not be any Easter egg hunts here. Mom says if I ever see an egg, I should turn and run away as fast as I can!!!

What kind of Easter basket are you hoping for?
A super comfy one lined in fleece that I can sleep in (and hide from Easter eggs) all day!

I am tagging:

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/879435">Gustav aka Gus</a></b> ~ He is one of the cutest kitties on Catster and he is adoptable. Seriously, check out his photos (the second one on his page makes mom melt!). And if you are in Nebraska and looking for an adorable kitty to adopt, please consider Gus!

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/915750">Colette Sidonie-Samantha</a></b> ~ Colette is a beautiful kitty who also has some pretty serious allergies. She just had an allergy test and I am purring like crazy that she starts to feel better on her new food!

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/771085">Spunky</a></b> ~ Spunky is a handsome kitty from Nevada who is also adoptable! He had a rough start in life but is just the sweetest kitty! Check out his adorable hairy paws! 

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/708719">Apollo</a></b> ~ Apollo is a sweetheart! Just look at his handsome face! And, he LOVES to hunt mousies just like me! *Blows a kiss to Apollo*

And the fifth kitty I am tagging is YOU! If you are reading this and you weren't too offended by my eating bunnies and chicks comment and you want to play, please consider yourself tagged!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Attack Cat!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574002</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 28 Mar 2009 18:14:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/574002</guid>
		<description>I am a master groomer. I love to groom myself, I love to groom my doggie Sophie, and I love to groom ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am a master groomer. I love to groom myself, I love to groom my doggie Sophie, and I love to groom my mom's hair. My mom has really long hair so it's kind of hard for me to groom effectively. I lick it but because it's so long I can't quite clean all of it so I have to spit it out. I get a really funny look on my face, my eyes get all crossed up, and I make funny noises as I spit the hair out. Mom doesn't really like when I do that : )

Today my mom was doing some paperwork and writing some reports. She was sitting in <a style="text-decoration:line-through">my</a> the big green chair with the laptop on her lap, typing away. At first I kept trying to walk across the keyboard but mom kept shooing me away : ( So I lounged for a little bit right on top of all of her papers.

Then I realized something! Mom had her hair in a ponytail and I LOVE ponytails! I tried to groom the ponytail but decided it would be more fun to play with. So I sat right on top of her pony tail and every time she tried to move her head, the ponytail I was sitting on moved too. So I attacked! MOL! It was so fun!!!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Friends in High Places! ***Updated***</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573779</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 20:48:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573779</guid>
		<description>Holy Cat! President Obama stopped by my page and signed my guestbook! MOL!

I'll have to tell my d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Holy Cat! President Obama stopped by my page and signed my guestbook! MOL!

I'll have to tell my dear friend <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Rocky Ann</a></b> about this! Wow, what an honor!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. When mom saw that the president signed my guestbook, she laughed so hard that tears came to her eyes. I think that means she is really excited for me!

***UPDATE*** 
My mom is still laughing : )]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Good Friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573721</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:39:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573721</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

Last night things got a little wild here because we had a crazy wind storm! I am not  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

Last night things got a little wild here because we had a crazy wind storm! I am not a fan of wind and neither is Sophie so we hid together in her den most of the night. 

Today has been a nice relaxing day (without wind!). Mom went to work this morning and Sophie and I took our morning, mid-morning, lunchtime, and early afternoon naps. By the time we woke up, mom's key was in the lock and she was HOME from work! And it's Friday so she's not leaving for three days if I have anything to meow about it! 

So now mom's home, relaxing. Sophie's sleeping on the floor near mom and I just gave myself a very thorough and deliberate bath while lounging on my new kitty condo (which I LOVE!). And I think it's just about time for my late afternoon AND early evening naps. 

Ahhh.....I love weekends!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>


P.S. Thanks so much to my friends who came by my Catster page and signed my new guestbook! You are each so adorable and I love having your photos flash on my page! If you haven't signed it yet, please come by when you get a chance!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Stop by and say hi!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573375</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:41:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/573375</guid>
		<description>I finally got one of those cute little guestbooks for my page! Now my Catster friends can stop by an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I finally got one of those cute little guestbooks for my page! Now my Catster friends can stop by and leave their photo on my page! Please come by and sign my guestbook when you have a chance!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Birthday Wishes!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572907</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 21:07:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572907</guid>
		<description>Sending out a big Happy Birthday to my cousin Max Cat! Max and his sister Baby Marley are my auntie' ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sending out a big Happy Birthday to my cousin <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Max Cat</a></b>! Max and his sister <a style="text-decoration:line-through">Baby</a> <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/818714">Marley</a></b> are my auntie's kitties and they live in Indiana! Max is a seriously mellow dude who puts up with a lot of mischief from his little kitty sister! And Miss Marley has made an amazing recovery from quite a rough start. We love you both! 

Happy Birthday Max Cat!!!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Smarty-fur-pants</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572593</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:51:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572593</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

I really like to sharpen my nails on the staircase! Mom doesn't like when I do  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

I really like to sharpen my nails on the staircase! Mom doesn't like when I do this so she has my cat tree and a scratching post arranged strategically to try to prevent it! That's fine- now I sharpen on the tree, the post, AND the stairs! 

So my smarty-pants mom bought some of that double-sided special tape to discourage my stair scratching. She taped it right over my two favorite scratchy spots on the stairs. Guess what?! I LOVE that double sided tape! I like to lick it, chew on it, and bat it with my paws! 

Mom thinks she's so smart but I am definitely more than a couple of steps ahead of her!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Heart warming</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572354</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Mar 2009 21:54:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572354</guid>
		<description>When mom was at the pet store today buying my new cat tree (!), she was surprised by how crowded the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom was at the pet store today buying my new cat tree (!), she was surprised by how crowded the pet store was on a Sunday afternoon. There were tons of doggies there, including two little puppies that actually licked mom's chin (THAT'S why she smelled like puppy breath when she came home!). 

Admist all of the stinky doggies, mom saw something that just warmed her heart. As she was waiting in line to pay for her (MY!) items, she noticed the guy standing next to her in line. He was a cute young guy and his cart was filled with all things kitty- litter box and litter, scratching post, two beautiful cat beds, lots of cat toys.

Mom asked him if he had recently adopted a new kitty and he said he had just adopted a three year old kitty from the high-kill animal control shelter. He told mom that his beloved cat had crossed the rainbow bridge a year and a half ago and he was finally ready to bring another kitty in his life (of course, mom can relate- it's been 10 months since Sally died and she goes back and forth about whether she is ready for a new kitty or not. But we don't have a new kitty yet so I guess she's still not ready). 

Anyways, this nice young guy had just gone to animal control. He said he saw his new kitty right away- A boy kitty who was missing one ear and was scheduled to be euthanized. He said the kitty looked kind of "rough" but that he thought he could give the kitty a good home and a good life. From the looks of all of the stuff in his cart AND his bright smiling face as he talked about his new kitty, it sounds like the kitty has found his new dad and forever home! Welcome home sweet kitty! 

We LOVE cat guys!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Queen of My Universe (i.e., my house)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572279</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:57:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/572279</guid>
		<description>In yet another example of how I have my mom (and her bank account) wrapped around my paw, I convince ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ In yet another example of how I have my mom (and her bank account) wrapped around my paw, I convinced her that I needed a new cat tree, TODAY. Yes friends, it has only been about four months since <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/527538">the last new cat tree arrived</a></b>. I used the exact same strategy to persuade mom this time: I scratched at the same spot until a bunch of carpet fibers and strings started popping out and then I began chewing on the fibers. Mom doesn't like that! She kept trimming the fibers off but I kept scratching out new ones!!!

Mom came home with a new tree today! It has a hidey hole in it, too! We play a special game when she brings home a new cat tree- mom walks in the door awkwardly lugging the cat tree and I immediately jump on it and purr and scratch and flop around on top of it. Mom doesn't really like that because she <a style="text-decoration:line-through">has OCD</a> wants to clean it before I come near it. But where's the fun in that?

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>


From Lucy's mom:
Does anyone know of a good place to buy a nice, sturdy cat tree? Lucy goes through them so quickly, absolutely shredding them with her nails. I wouldn't really worry about it except that then she tries to EAT the tree's carpet! Any suggestions?]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>You can call me......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/571467</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:52:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/571467</guid>
		<description>I have about a thousand nicknames. Mom makes up new ones for me every day. Today she was calling me  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have about a thousand nicknames. Mom makes up new ones for me every day. Today she was calling me "Goofer!" It was derived from goofy. *insert shrugging emoticon here* Some nicknames stick. For instance, I respond more quickly to Nuna (rhymes with Luna, which I also respond to) than to Lucy! So in a way, Lucy is more of a nickname than Nuna!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy (aka Lucy Lou, Lou Lou, Looney, Luna, Nuna, Nuni, Nuners, Baby Girl, Little Girl, Chewy, Goofer, etc)</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Good News!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/571358</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:43:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/571358</guid>
		<description>Mom and my v-e-t had a nice long conversation on the phone today. I say it was a nice conversation b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and my v-e-t had a nice long conversation on the phone today. I say it was a nice conversation because talking to the v-e-t on the phone is SO much better than actually going in to see her!

My ear looks much better and I haven't been scratching it or fussing with it at all! *pats self on back* The vet actually thinks I am doing really well with only having two new lesions over the past two months. She said that the fact that I didn't scratch them or over-groom/lick my fur off means that the medication is working! 

The vet told mom that the medication is suppressing my immune system- the problem with the lesions is partially related to my allergies but more so related to some type of an immune system disorder. So what happened was my skin reacted to an allergen or something in the environment and it caused me to develop a lesion. But my new medication did what it is supposed to do! It suppressed my immune system and stopped my immune system from over-reacting to the allergen and then attacking my body. That's why I didn't scratch it or over-groom the area (which makes everything worse).

The v-e-t prescribed a topical medication to put on any developing lesions. She said not to worry unless I get a lesion and then I hurt myself scratching or licking it. And I am happy to report that since my medicine IS working, I don't feel the need to scratch!! Woo-hoo!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A better day</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/570146</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:29:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/570146</guid>
		<description>Today was a better day than yesterday. Holy cat, I'm hungry! No tummy upset today. My ear is about t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was a better day than yesterday. Holy cat, I'm hungry! No tummy upset today. My ear is about the same as yesterday, not any worse (because I haven't been scratching it). That means no e-collar! Mom is calling the v-e-t in the morning to talk about frequency and dosage of my medication.

I've been a little leery of mom today. Every time I go near her she keeps touching and looking at my ears! Not cool mom, not cool.

Sophie and I spent most of the afternoon snoozing upstairs on mom's bed together. Mom was busy rearranging the furniture in our living room. I don't know why she feels the need to do that every 6 months. I like when everything stays the same! Mom can't really move everything; she has to keep my cat tree next to the stairs so that I sharpen my kitty claws on the tree instead of the carpet on the stairs. So at least that stays the same.

I'll be sure to let mom know what I think about the room tonight. Moving furniture = lots of meowing from yours truly.

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Optimistic despite a setback</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/569804</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 14 Mar 2009 16:17:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/569804</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends,

I've had a setback with my health. About 5 days ago I developed a new lesion on ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends,

I've had a setback with my health. About 5 days ago I developed a new lesion on my head. I had been responding really well to my new immune-suppressant medication and had been lesion free for nearly 8 weeks. The new lesion was pretty small (the size of a nickel) and I wasn't scratching it or messing with it at all. Mom was <a style="text-decoration:line-through">in denial</a> hopeful that it would go away without further problems.

Unfortunately, today I have developed a new, larger lesion in my ear and on my head. My ear is swollen and it really itches. I've also been vomiting today : (

Mom's keeping a close eye on me and if necessary, will take me into the ER vet (but all the ER vet can do is give me a steroid shot and we want to avoid that if possible). She'll call the vet on Monday to talk about my medicine and see if we need to increase it to every day. If I keep scratching, mom says I have to wear that icky e-collar again and I might have to go and get another anti-biotic shot! *hisses* 

As disappointing as this is, Mom and I are taking an optimistic approach to this (temporary!) setback. She has heard of many kitties on this medication that do really well but still continue to have about 10% of their skin problems. We can handle that as it would be a 90% improvement!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love and optimism,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Growly Girl</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/569006</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 22:22:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/569006</guid>
		<description>I'm a chatterbox. All day long- meows, mews, mehs, and all kinds of kitty talk. Every once in awhile ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm a chatterbox. All day long- meows, mews, mehs, and all kinds of kitty talk. Every once in awhile I also make another noise. It's a growly grumble and it is very low and comes from deep inside me. I make the growly noise maybe twice a year, usually when I am scared or threatened (by fireworks or loud thunder/rain, because those things are scary, right?). 

So I say, "Grumble. Grumble. Grumble." and then I get really low to the ground and I run into Sophie's den <a style="text-decoration:line-through">to hide with her</a> to protect her. The scene looks a bit like <b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/together">this</a></b>. My grumbles always catch mom by surprise and it takes her a minute to figure out that it's ME making that crazy noise!

Well, for the last three nights, I have been a growly girl, grumbling my way into Sophie's den! But there is no rain, thunder, or fireworks! Mom was <a style="text-decoration:line-through">being a hypochondriac</a> a little concerned and was wondering if there might be something neurological going on with me. MOL!

Tonight, when I grumbled and grumbled, she FINALLY investigated by going out the front door to see what was turning me into growly girl. Guess what she found? The neighbor's automatic sprinkler is broken and sending a huge burst of water about 20 feet into the air! It SOUNDS like rain!

Can you believe it? Neurological? MOL!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love and grumbles,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A SECRET Admirer?!?!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/568368</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 21:16:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/568368</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat! My angel sister Sally and I both received champagne glasses with the following message:
 ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat! My angel sister Sally and I both received champagne glasses with the following message:

<b><a style="font: 12pt monotype arial;">A little bubbly ... from a SECRET admirer ;-)</a></b>

Thank you secret admirer! Please come forward so Sally and I can share the bubbly with you!

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Allergies?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567425</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Mar 2009 19:32:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567425</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

I am still healthy! I haven't been to the v-e-t in almost two months (and I refuse to ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

I am still healthy! I haven't been to the v-e-t in almost two months (and I refuse to believe that saying that might somehow jinx me!)! That's nearly a record for me. Woo-hoo! 
 
If I stay healthy for the next couple of months, mom says we are FINALLY going to start looking for a baby brother or sister kitty! She's definitely ready to bring some new kitty love and energy into our family. Will I be ready? We'll see ; )

Also, just wanted to mention that if you have allergies, you are invited to join the group 

<b><a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Cats_with_allergies-14743">*Cats with Allergies*</a></b>! 

<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Vacuum Monster is Hungry!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567553</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 7 Mar 2009 09:19:40 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567553</guid>
		<description>OMC! The vacuum monster is so hungry! I KNEW the sounds it makes are vacuum-speak for &quot;FEED ME!&quot; Whe ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ OMC! The vacuum monster is so hungry! I KNEW the sounds it makes are vacuum-speak for "FEED ME!" When mom was vacuuming, the monster sucked up one of my toys, a little felt rattle ball. I knew that thing was a scary, HUNGRY monster! 

The ball got stuck in the monster's teeth and actually started burning and smoking- luckily there were no flames! Bad, bad vacuum monster!


<b><a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who's a turkey?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567108</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 17:27:25 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/567108</guid>
		<description>I got furminated tonight! *purrs* Holy cat I LOVE the furminator. Even though I'm always last to get ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got furminated tonight! *purrs* Holy cat I LOVE the furminator. Even though I'm always last to get brushed. Hmpf. It's not my fault that Sophie (and my angel Sally) have such long, crazy hair! Sophie doesn't even like to be brushed. But me? Brush me and I purr and knead and roll around in complete bliss!

I was sitting atop my cat tree while Mom furminated me. I was kind of out of it (considering the blissful state I was in!) and forgot about a little secret something I had hidden up on the tree. And wouldn't you know it, Mom found it while she was furminating me! She saw this little white thing and before I could distract her, she picked it up and realized what it was! One of my pepcid ac pills! Instead of swallowing it, I spit it out and hid it in my cat tree!!!

So then, Mom called me a turkey! Her exact words were, "Oh Lucy! When did you do this? You little turkey!" 

But she kept furminating me, so I guess it wasn't that big of a deal! 

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sneaky!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566783</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 16:24:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566783</guid>
		<description>I have a super sneaky spot where I spend lots of time spying on big, slow birds. Our master bedroom  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have a super sneaky spot where I spend lots of time spying on big, slow birds. Our master bedroom is on the second floor and it has a big window that overlooks a huge tree. If I lay on the corner of mom's bed, I can kind of hide behind the curtains and peek out of the window! It's a great spot to spy on all of the big birdies (mom says the really big slow ones are called 'pigeons')! The only thing that would be better is if mom would actually let me outside- I KNOW I could catch one!

But mom says no...

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>In loving memory of Taag</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566409</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 13:50:17 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566409</guid>
		<description>Beautiful Taag has gone to the rainbow bridge. I am sure that my angel sister Sally was there to mee ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/439021">Taag</a> has gone to the rainbow bridge. I am sure that my angel sister Sally was there to meet and comfort her. Taag and her family are so very sweet and it breaks my heart to know how sad they are at Taag's passing.

Rest in peace, sweet Taag. Purrs of love and comfort to your loving and beautiful family.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thank you!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566156</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 20:38:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/566156</guid>
		<description>Thanks Catster ~ being a Daily Diary Pick is so fun! I've had a great day, thanks to all my thoughtf ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thanks Catster ~ being a Daily Diary Pick is so fun! I've had a great day, thanks to all my thoughtful friends! 

Thank you to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/64639">Hazel Lucy</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/539628">Lucky</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/62740">Buddy...Always Loved</a> for the sweet pmails!

Thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/157184">Patches</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/491236">Rusty</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/548464">Shadow *Kitty Angel*</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/549049">Stormy *Cat Angel*</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/758261">Baxter</a> for the pretty pink ribbon!

Thanks to lovely Irish gal <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/283038">Samoa O'Boa McLovely</a> and family for the lucky four leaf clover! Thanks to another lovely Irish gal, my friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/56398">Mercy McBarrel O' Fun</a>, for the yummy shrimp (and for your sweet message about Sally)!

Thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/497651">Mittens</a> (purring for you!), <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/291740">Rocky O'Drama McPINK</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/515096">Piewackit</a> for the Leprechaun Hats!

Thanks to friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/919476">Tate McEats Alot O'Hottie</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/919525">Tonka McPukenator</a>, and their doggies for the lovely red rose! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/419178">Sausage</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/419222">Meatball</a>, thank you for the four leaf clover!

To the dapper <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/135219">Diego</a> and his lovely sisters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/135281">LuLu</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/135342">Furie (in loving memory)</a>, thank you for the lucky clover!

Thank you for the beautiful emerald to my dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>! And to darling <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/672967">Isis McPooty</a> *giggles* and family, thank you for the beautiful emerald! Purring for your mom, Missy, and family.

Dear <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764">Wally Always and Forever Loved</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/679175">Teddy O'Bearz</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/427259">Sydney Rose Forever Loved</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/418412">Nikki My Sweet Angel</a>, and CATSTER FAMOUS SUPERMODEL <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/418058">Alfie McKneady O'Fuzzypants</a> ~ Thank you for the beautiful emerald and the snapshot memento! You are so sweet!!!

And to sweet <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a>, thank you for the beautiful diamond! Sending lots of purrs your way!!!

Catster friends are the best!!!
<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom stayed home to celebrate with me!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565990</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 13:15:20 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565990</guid>
		<description>Wow, I'm a Daily Diary Pick today! Thanks to Catster's Diary Gal for picking me and to my lovely fri ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, I'm a Daily Diary Pick today! Thanks to Catster's Diary Gal for picking me and to my lovely friends for sending gifts and pmails. I'll do an official thank you and individual thank yous later on today.

I would also like to send a big thanks out to the flu for keeping mom home from work so she can celebrate with me! It's been a great celebration- lots of sleeping and cuddling. Mom is so warm and cozy (mom's edit- feverish), she's like my very own heated blanket! She did get up long enough to get me some yummy treats to celebrate and then we went back to bed!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Feeling groovy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565361</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Mar 2009 15:04:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565361</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

I've been feeling really great lately. I've been taking my medication every other day ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

I've been feeling really great lately. I've been taking my medication every other day for the past week instead of every day. So far so good! My skin is nice and clear and no new bald spots or lesions. My ears are still growing new fur; mom says it's like baby kitty fur, all soft and fuzzy.

My tummy feels good, too! Mom started feeding me some turkey to give me a little variety. Yum! 

It's warm here today- close to 90 degrees outside! I've been laying in sun puddles all day. *purrs*

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Welcome Wagon</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565366</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 28 Feb 2009 17:28:37 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/565366</guid>
		<description>My grandpa and my uncle Pete are coming to town to golf, oops, I mean for business. I don't know if  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My grandpa and my uncle Pete are coming to town to golf, oops, I mean for business. I don't know if I will get to see them; with mom's work schedule, she may end up meeting them out for dinner rather than having them come to our house. I hope they get to come visit me! They are "dog people" not "cat people." Whatever that means (seriously, how weird is that? I like "dog AND cat people!"). I like the challenge of trying to convert them to kitty people.

One time when my uncle Pete was staying with us, I snuck into the guest room and curled up on top of his suitcase. Next thing mom knew, uncle Pete was carrying me down the stairs (holding me around the middle with his arms extended FAR away from his body! MOL!) and he handed me to mom. He had never held a kitty before! You should have seen the look on my face; I was just hanging there in his hands wondering what in the world he was doing. I said, "mew." Mom couldn't stop laughing! 

Ever since that incident, I have done my best to turn uncle Pete into a cat person. I like to sniff his head and I REALLY want to sleep on his pillow but he won't let me! If he comes to visit me this week, I'm going to make sure to give him some good bonks and rub all over him. I hope he has a dark shirt on!

My grandpa REALLY doesn't know much about interacting with kitties! He sometimes tries to play with me and my feather on a string but I usually just sit and stare at him. I'd like to groom him but he says "no thanks." I hope he wears a dark shirt, too, so I can share my white fur with him!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Non-Stop Purrs</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/564458</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:36:30 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/564458</guid>
		<description>Mom finally let me get on Catster today! She has been SO busy that we've only had a minute or two to ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom finally let me get on Catster today! She has been SO busy that we've only had a minute or two to check in on groups. I miss my friends and I'm so sorry if I missed anyone's special honor of COTD or DDP these past few days!

I know that things are a little crazy everywhere right now with the economy and stuff. Here in Arizona, things keep getting worse. Services to infants and young children who have been abused and neglected and services for those with disabilities have been devastated by state budget cuts. 

My mom is a child therapist and she provides counseling for young children and their families. The state budget cuts have really hurt her clients and her non profit organization. The needs in our community are sky-rocketing. In addition to the horrible loss of needed services for so many, lots of our friends have been laid off or furloughed (made to take significant amounts of unpaid time off). Luckily, mom still has her job but she has to increase her hours with less pay/reimbursement, at least through the end of June. 

I'm purring like crazy for my Catster friends, for everyone- humans AND kitties AND doggies- struggling to make ends meet, and especially for the children and other vulnerable people in need.

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I got mail!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563952</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:10:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563952</guid>
		<description>Sally Angel, Sophie, and I got a Valentine's Day card from our dear friends &amp;#9829;Chloe&amp;#9829;, Har ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sally Angel, Sophie, and I got a Valentine's Day card from our dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">&#9829;Chloe&#9829;</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/613470">Harley</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/613500">Roscoe (in loving memory)</a>! Thank you!

We also got a Valentine's Day card in the mail from our cousins <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/818714">Baby Marley</a> (who is getting so BIG!!!) and cool cat <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Max Cat</a>! Thanks cousins!

<a style="font: 16pt monotype corsiva; color: purple">love,
Lucy</a></b>

P.S. My silly mom is awful at keeping up with our mail! Our mailbox is about a mile from our house and mom ALWAYS forgets to get it so I didn't even know I had mail until days after Valentine's Day!!! Not cool Mom, not cool.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Onyx was chosen as the Diary of the Day!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563311</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:17:39 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563311</guid>
		<description>My dear friend Onyx was chosen as the Diary of the Day! Look at him and his cute (fluffy!) belly on  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My dear friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a> was chosen as the Diary of the Day! Look at him and his cute (fluffy!) belly on the home page of Catster! His mom and my mom work together and give each other Lucy and Onyx updates all the time! 

Onyx, we are SO glad that you are feeling better and we are so happy to see you have such a fun Catster honor! Enjoy your special day!

love,
Lucy and family]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Good Medicine</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563189</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:04:39 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/563189</guid>
		<description>Sophie had to go the v-e-t today. Poor doggie. I missed her (and mom) while they were gone. When the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sophie had to go the v-e-t today. Poor doggie. I missed her (and mom) while they were gone. When they finally got home, I was waiting just inside the front door. As soon as mom opened the door, I meowed and started headbonking the floor and then Sophie. I'm positive that made her feel better about the whole v-e-t ordeal. Headbonks are good medicine.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hypoallergenic Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/562398</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 22:41:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/562398</guid>
		<description>I sent Dogster's doggie hugs to two of my Catster friends today!  I love dogs, the Dogster doggie hu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I sent Dogster's doggie hugs to two of my Catster friends today!  I love dogs, the Dogster doggie hugs are cute, and I accidently figured out a way to send Dogster gifts to my Catster friends. I was so excited and felt really clever (although maybe everyone already knew how to do that and I'm actually quite slow? *shrugs*) 

Apparently, in all my excitement and cleverness, I forgot that my sweet friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a> is ALLERGIC to dogs! And I sent her a hugging doggie! And it keeps giving her hugs, over and over and over! 

And really, as a cat with severe allergies myself, I should have been more thoughtful and aware!!! MOL!

So I just want to reassure Muppet that the doggie gift I sent her is completely, 100% hypoallergenic! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>GREAT news and warm furry ears (plus some extra purrs)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/562193</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:47:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/562193</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties! 

I have some GREAT news! I am responding very well to my new medicine. Today is day 2 ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties! 

I have some GREAT news! I am responding very well to my new medicine. Today is day 29 and my leg is all healed and my skin is not showing signs of ANY new lesions (not even small ones). Woo-hoo! That means that on Friday, I can start taking the Atopica every other day instead of every day! Big purrs for this doggie medicine that is really helping me. 

On top of all of this great news, my ear fur is growing back in! I had lost all of the fur on my ears 4 years ago due to my food allergies and skin problems. The fur grew back in a little over the past four years but my ears never fully recovered; I've had patches of little to no fur...until now!!! Yay for warm, furry ears!

On another note, we would like to send big purrs to all the kitties and their families who have been impacted by the current economic problems. In our state of Arizona, horrific and unimaginable budget cuts were passed in the last two weeks. These cuts were shocking as they have a SIGNIFICANT impact on the most vulnerable in our community: children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and low income families. We are very concerned about the well-being of so many people and their beloved companion animals. Purring non-stop for all.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Snuggles!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/561585</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:00:25 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/561585</guid>
		<description>I'm a pretty skinny little girl; sometimes I get REALLY cold and I shake. Mom thinks my new medicine ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm a pretty skinny little girl; sometimes I get REALLY cold and I shake. Mom thinks my new medicine is making me shake and shiver even more than I usually shiver. But don't worry, we've talked to the vet about it and she's not worried. So mom and I are both always thinking about ways to keep me warm.

Well last night I was COLD! I snuggled up in my Morgan's Bed and rolled into a tight little catball but I was still cold and shaking. When it was time for bed, mom brought my Morgan's Bed upstairs and put it on the bed, UNDER the covers! OMC- it was divine! I curled up in my little Lucy catball in my Morgan's Bed, next to my mom, and under the covers! I stayed there all night because it was so nice and toasty!!! I highly recommend this to my friends who get COLD at night!

love and warm purrs,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A revelation and a new mystery!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560950</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 15 Feb 2009 08:03:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560950</guid>
		<description>The Shrimp Showerer has come forward and turned himself in!!! Now I can shower Roland with whisker k ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The Shrimp Showerer has come forward and turned himself in!!! Now I can shower <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/888252">Roland</a> with whisker kisses and headbonks! Thanks for all of the yummy shrimp treats you showered on my angel sister Sally and me!

Now that the Shrimp Showerer mystery has been solved, another mystery begins! I received a lovely red rose from anonymous! The anonymous rosette giver(s) signed the rosette message as my "secret friends!" Thank you for the rose and the very sweet message! Please come forward so that we can officially become friends (if we are not already?) and so that I can thank you!

love and anticipation,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Shoe love</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560398</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 13 Feb 2009 20:10:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560398</guid>
		<description>My mom likes shoes. It's bizarre. Who cares about shoes? Why buy more shoes when she could be buying ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom likes shoes. It's bizarre. Who cares about shoes? Why buy more shoes when she could be buying me more mousies? However......although I don't think shoes are really all that important, I REFUSE to be blamed for a recent shoe incident in my home. 

Here's what happened. Mom pulled out her silver and black wedge shoes to wear to work today. They had been sitting in the closet with her other shoes. When she put them on, she realized that the left shoe felt funny. She took it off to take a closer look and guess what she discovered?! Some cat (or maybe a mousie? Yeah, we should blame a mousie!) had been CHEWING on her shoe! And left little kitty (or mousie?) teeth marks and holes all over the heel and sole! MOL!

Who could do such a thing? Don't look at me! Just because I am the only kitty in the house? That doesn't mean those little kitty teeth marks were mine! And just because I have a history of pica? Still not conclusive evidence! 

And really, doesn't this all just go back to my initial statement? Who cares about shoes anyways? 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Calling all detectives!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560027</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:01:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/560027</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat! I've received anonymous shrimp rosettes twice this week! The first one said, 

&quot;HA! You ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat! I've received anonymous shrimp rosettes twice this week! The first one said, 

"HA! You have been struck! The Shrimp Showerer has showered a shrimp upon you!”

The second one said,

"Shrimped again!!!! The secret shrimpinator has struck you once more! Eat up my friend!”

Wow! Who is the Shrimp Showerer aka the Secret Shrimpinator? My angel sister has also been struck along with our friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/888252">Roland</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a>! Has anyone else been showered with shrimp? I think shrimp showers are the only kind of shower I like!

We need a detective on this case! And when the shrimp showerer is caught, I'd like to give him/her/them a big kiss! Thanks for the shrimp!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Bye to my winter visitor! Come back soon!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558649</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:42:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558649</guid>
		<description>It was so much fun having a house guest this past weekend! I liked to wait right outside the guest b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was so much fun having a house guest this past weekend! I liked to wait right outside the guest bedroom door when she was in it, just in case there was any movement! And when she sat in the big chair in the living room, I liked to perch right next to her, high up on my cat tree, and stare down at her. Being a new person and all, I was never quite sure what she might do next! It was so exciting! Any time she looked at me or talked to me, I head bonked whatever was closest to me (wall, cat tree, floor, her hand, etc.). And last night I groomed her hair! The ultimate sign of Lucy affection! But our winter visitor left today. *sigh* So now everything is back to normal at my house.

lots of love and purrs,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Healthy Update!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558648</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Feb 2009 12:37:04 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558648</guid>
		<description>Update from Lucy's mom:

Lucy has really been doing well over the past 3 weeks! Her leg is almost  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update from Lucy's mom:

Lucy has really been doing well over the past 3 weeks! Her leg is almost entirely healed and the fur is growing back. She is tolerating her new medication VERY well (no vomiting) and does not even run from me when it's time to give her a pill. 

It's still pretty early (2 1/2 weeks) for the new medicine to have completely cleared up her skin problems but it certainly seems to be helping. Thank you for all of the purrs and the support during the past month (and the past 6 months) while we have been trying so hard to get Lucy feeling better. I am very hopeful that we are headed down the right path!

Take care,
Molly]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Winter visitors!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558158</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 7 Feb 2009 23:42:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/558158</guid>
		<description>Living in a warm climate, we often get winter visitors! This weekend, mom's best friend is staying w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Living in a warm climate, we often get winter visitors! This weekend, mom's best friend is staying with us. She's from Chicago and apparently she brought some winter weather with her as it's raining tonight! So, of course, that means I am hiding out <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/together">HERE</a>! It also means that mom hasn't given me much time on Catster this weekend. *glares at mom* 

Sending lots of warm purrs to all of my friends. Sending extra purrs to beautiful new angel <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/144863">Scooter</a> and her loving family.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who, me?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/557016</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 4 Feb 2009 16:32:37 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/557016</guid>
		<description>Uh-oh! I got busted today doing a no-no! There aren't very many no-nos in my house but I managed to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Uh-oh! I got busted today doing a no-no! There aren't very many no-nos in my house but I managed to find one. Mom heard me sharpening my claws on what she thought was my cat tree. She told me what a good kitty I am and went on doing whatever it is moms do. But then she heard a funny sound and she took a closer look. Instead of sharpening my claws on my tree, I was sharpening them on the carpet on the stairs right NEXT to my tree! 

And now my secret is out! I've been doing that for a day or two and I made quite a mess; I even ripped part of the carpet away from the stairs. It's not my fault that the carpet on the stairs looks kind of like the carpet on my cat tree! But then, to make matters worse, I started gnawing on the carpet fibers that I had pulled out!!! I can't help my Pica tendencies!!!

Guess what my mommy did? She REARRANGED all of the furniture in the living room and now I can't even get to my special carpet spot! It's being blocked by a big chair! Hmmpf!

I guess I'll have to go back to sharpening my lovely kitty claws on my cat tree...

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mousie Convention</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/556702</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 18:20:06 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/556702</guid>
		<description>When mom went to bed last night, there were two mousies on the stairs, one mousie on top of my cat t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom went to bed last night, there were two mousies on the stairs, one mousie on top of my cat tree, and my other mousies were randomly scattered around the house. When mom woke up this morning she saw that all of my favorite mousies were grouped together on the floor near the fireplace! A mousie convention!!! Hmmm. I wonder how that happened? *wink*

I wonder what kind of wild and crazy adventures my mousies will have tonight?!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Scaredy cat no more! And a visitor is coming!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/556310</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 Feb 2009 18:04:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/556310</guid>
		<description>I am no longer a scaredy cat! Woo-hoo! My fear of the beeps is gone!!! It only took 6 days to get us ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am no longer a scaredy cat! Woo-hoo! My fear of the beeps is gone!!! It only took 6 days to get used to the new sounds in my life!

And guess what?!? My leg is healing and new fur started growing! The last steroid shot I had (hopefully the last one EVER!) should be wearing off by now so it's super good news that my leg isn't hurting and I haven't been licking it. Plus, I've been a really good girl when it comes to taking my medicine. No problems at all. Thanks for all of your purrs!

This weekend mom's best friend is coming to stay with us as she is from Chicago and she needs some AZ sunshine! I LOVE visitors but it means that my room, oops, I mean the guest room, will be off limits to me and Sophie. Something about mom cleaning it and not wanting doggie and kitty hair everywhere? Well in my opinion, if you don't like doggie or kitty hair, you probably shouldn't come stay at our house! MOL! 

love,
Lucy

P.S. For any kitties out there in Catsterland who have allergies, you are invited to join the Cats with Allergies group! Click <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Cats_with_allergies-14743">HERE</a>!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Brave kitty!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/555725</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Feb 2009 09:58:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/555725</guid>
		<description>I stayed downstairs today when the security system went, &quot;Beep, BEEEEEP!&quot; Mom told me I am a very, v ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I stayed downstairs today when the security system went, "Beep, BEEEEEP!" Mom told me I am a very, very brave kitty!

love,
Lucy

P.S. Is everybody ready for today's Puppy Bowl with the Kitten Halftime Show on Animal Planet?!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Progress and warm purrs!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/555276</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 23:37:45 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/555276</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

I have been making progress on two fronts: My leg is looking much better (final ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

I have been making progress on two fronts: My leg is looking much better (finally!) and I have been taking my medicine every day and not giving mom ANY problems. I haven't gotten sick from it, either! Thank you for all of your purrs. Hopefully, as my last steroid shot wears off in the next week or so, my new medicine will help to keep my leg and skin from developing more problems. We are very hopeful!

After three days of hiding under mom's bed and in the guest bedroom closet, I am relaxing (slightly) about the new security system. Now when it beeps or talks, I still put my ears back, flatten to the ground, and dart up the stairs, but instead of hiding I've been curling up in my Morgan's bed upstairs. I've also been eating without needing extra coaxing from mom; that makes her happy! Maybe in a couple more days I won't get so scared and I'll stop running away from the beeps.

Sending lots of warm Arizona kitty purrs to all the kitties and their families in cold weather climates. Stay warm!!!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Apollo is my valentine!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/554342</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:32:15 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/554342</guid>
		<description>My very sweet friend Apollo asked if I wanted to be his valentine! *blushes* Of course, he's just th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My very sweet friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/708719">Apollo</a> asked if I wanted to be his valentine! *blushes* Of course, he's just the sweetest kitty! *Blows a kiss to Apollo*

In other news, I am still having a hard time with this new security system. Talk about bad timing! I'm still in the first week of my medication and trying to get my health stabilized. And now every time mom goes in or out one of the doors, a box starts talking and then makes loud beeps! Because we have a doggie, mom has to keep opening the door to walk Sophie! And then BEEP BEEP BEEP! Holy cat! 

Yesterday I refused to come out from under mom's bed. I wouldn't even eat! But last night mom coaxed me out and let me tell you, I was HUNGRY! Then I went and hid again but when mom woke up this morning, I was sleeping next to her in my Morgan's bed. And then today, when she stopped at home between appointments, I was downstairs. Of course, as soon as she opened the door the beeping started again! So I crouched down really low, looked from side to side, and darted back up the stairs and under mom's bed. Geez, all of this drama at our house is ridiculous! Paws crossed that things can get back to normal soon.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Security</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/553881</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:12:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/553881</guid>
		<description>Wow, the last couple of days have been very strange at our house! First of all, on Sunday night a st ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, the last couple of days have been very strange at our house! First of all, on Sunday night a strange man showed up at our front door and refused to leave! He was saying very strange things and demanding mom let him in the house. Ummm, NO. Mom had to call the police and they had to physically remove him and take him to the hospital; sadly, he appears to have a serious mental illness and unfortunately somehow ended up at our door. Hopefully he is now getting the help he needs (and never comes back to our house).

In the meantime, we got a new security system installed today for added protection (nothing like a random scary encounter to motivate mom to FINALLY get a security system! The security guy said that is usually when people call for an alarm system, right AFTER something scary happens). The security system talks to us and tells us which door or window is open. I don't like the security system's voice. Every time it talks, I run and hide under mom's bed. Hopefully I will make friends with it soon! Also, it's very,very loud and I REALLY don't like the beeps that it makes. Mom says that is okay- if it ever goes off, hopefully I will run and hide and that will keep me safe.

Besides all of that strange stuff, I've been doing pretty well! I did lick my leg a little after the incident on Sunday night but I was pretty stressed out with all of the chaos. Once everything calmed down, I stopped licking. I have also been taking my medicine and not giving mom any problems. I get lots of extra loving right afterwards and I really like that! I stretch out, flat on my belly, and mom gives me big pets and kisses. *Purrs*

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Drooly girl</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/552418</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 23 Jan 2009 11:06:26 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/552418</guid>
		<description>Hi friends,

My leg is feeling a little better today. I've been on my new medicine Atopica (aka Cy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends,

My leg is feeling a little better today. I've been on my new medicine Atopica (aka Cyclosporine) for two days. Some kitties can get pretty sick while adjusting to it and mom was worried (I know, my mom was worried? Shocking!) because even regular old clavamox makes me sick. So she wasn't sure how I'd do on this D-O-G medicine. But thanks to advice from my v-e-t and from my very knowledgeable friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a>, mom is taking extra steps to help me not feel too sick. I've been licking my lips quite a bit and drooling a little (no vomiting though) but I've also been eating, drinking, using the litter box regularly (Woo-hoo!!!), and PLAYING! I feel like playing with my ball in the track and my tent and my mousies! Mom and I played fetch this morning! So far so good!

Thank you for all of the purrs. The purrs are really, really helping!!!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thank you &amp;#9829;Chloe&amp;#9829;, Harley, and Roscoe!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551885</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 21:21:32 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551885</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

I hope you all are doing well (and for those of you in cold climates, I hope you are  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

I hope you all are doing well (and for those of you in cold climates, I hope you are staying nice and warm). I'm doing okay (of course, thanks to your purrs). My leg looks a little better today. I haven't been licking it which means no e-collar. Hooray! Plus I don't have time to lick it- the shot I had on Monday is making me crazy hungry! Why lick when I can eat?

I started my new medicine tonight. Wow, talk about a horse pill! But I didn't give mom too much trouble and at least it doesn't make me foam at the mouth like some other medicines. Yuck. After I took my horse pill I went upstairs to take a nap in peace. Unfortunately hovering mommy has returned and she kept coming upstairs and checking on me. Would somebody please tell her that it takes more than 10 minutes for the medicine to take effect?! Geez.

On top of all of that something really exciting happened today! Three of my dearest, bestest friends sent me a package! Mail addressed to me! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">&#9829;Chloe&#9829;</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/613470">Harley</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/613500">Roscoe (in loving memory)</a> sent me (and my angel sister) a card, photos of their sweet faces, yummy catnip, balls, and a whole bunch of mousies! Big mousies, little mousies, fuzzy mousies, brown mousies, gold mousies, MOUSIES! Thank you!!! *blows kisses to all three kitties and their parents (<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516/diary/The_life_of_a_princess_pork_chop/550319">and Patio Pete and his patio friends Button the rooster and Stinky the skunk</a>)*

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Big Day!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551447</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 17:05:44 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551447</guid>
		<description>Today was so exciting! In between mealtimes (my medicine makes me HUNGRY) and naptimes (my medicine  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was so exciting! In between mealtimes (my medicine makes me HUNGRY) and naptimes (my medicine also makes me SLEEPY), I watched the presidential inauguration with mom and Sophie! Wow! I'm purring like crazy!

Also, my new medicine came today. I am going to start taking it tomorrow night. Hopefully it will help me to FINALLY get healthy! Thank you for all of the healing purrs being sent my way!

love,
Lucy

P.S. I haven't been licking my leg since the shot yesterday. My leg still looks pretty bad but it's not bothering me as much. That's good because no licking means no e-collar! I'm all about that!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hey itchies, go away!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551087</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:04:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/551087</guid>
		<description>I just got back from the v-e-t. I had to go because my leg was really, really bothering me. I got an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just got back from the v-e-t. I had to go because my leg was really, really bothering me. I got another steroid shot and the vet said that would hopefully tide me over for a couple of weeks until my new medicine (hopefully) starts helping. My vet doesn't carry my new medicine (it's for DOGS!) so we had to order it from Pet Meds. Mom ordered it with express shipping so it should hopefully be here by tomorrow.

I am finally out of that crazy lampshade e-collar! But mom says if I get itchy tonight I have to put it back on. Geez, can't a kitty even give herself a bath?!

Thanks for all of the purrs! My paws are crossed that the new medicine (dog medicine! MOL!) gets here soon and helps. Please purr that today's steroid shot helps me feel better and is the last one I EVER have to get!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Ouch!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/550555</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:44:51 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/550555</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends,

Late last night/early this morning my leg was really bothering me. Mom was asle ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends,

Late last night/early this morning my leg was really bothering me. Mom was asleep so I tried to take care of it myself by licking it but that made it much worse. I could tell when mom saw my leg this morning that she was really worried. She cleaned it and then put my e-collar back on. 

Thank you for all of the purrs. Please keep purring for my leg to heal.

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:

Since the steroid shot two weeks ago, Lucy hadn't been licking so she no longer needed the e-collar. Although she wasn't licking it (it had dried out), the wound was still not healing. The plan was to start the new immune-suppressant medication later this week.

This morning when I did the morning Lucy leg check, I was suprised to discover that she had taken a turn for the worse last night. The steroid shot effects must have worn off. Her leg was raw and bleeding this morning- not good (it's never bled before). So I cleaned it up, put some medicine on it, and put her back in the e-collar. Poor kitty. I'll call the vet first thing tomorrow morning and take her in, probably for another steroid shot. Maybe another antibiotic shot too, just in case. Although the new medicine should help, it's a long term solution, not a quick fix, and she definitely needs some immediate relief.

Thanks for sending purrs Lucy's way. She could definitely use them. Take care.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A new plan to get healthy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/550234</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 17 Jan 2009 12:20:35 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/550234</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends!

Yay! It's Saturday! That means lots of napping, cuddles with mom, and extra pla ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends!

Yay! It's Saturday! That means lots of napping, cuddles with mom, and extra playtime (It might also mean the vacuum monster because I saw mom looking in that direction this morning).

In other news, unfortunately even with the steroid shot and the antibiotic shot two weeks ago, my leg still hasn't healed. Mom and the vet have been talking a lot lately (by phone- SO much better than office visits!) and next week I am going to start taking a new medicine. It's called Atopica (aka Cyclosporine) and it's actually made FOR DOGS! It's an immune-suppressant and some kitties with similar skin lesions and allergies have done really well on it. Plus it has less side-effects than steroids; the main side effect of this medication is that some kitties can feel pretty darn sick for the first week or two. We are going to take some precautions (thank you <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a> for the advice!) and hopefully I won't feel too sick. 

And hopefully my icky skin problems go away, FOREVER! If the medicine works, I'll probably take it for the rest of my life. I'm going to start taking it Thursday of next week (so mom can be home from work on Friday and the weekend in case I get sick). Keep your paws crossed!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm a thinking girl</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/549639</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:39:32 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/549639</guid>
		<description>Sometimes I like to sit and face the wall. I just sit there and stare at the wall. It's kind of fun. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sometimes I like to sit and face the wall. I just sit there and stare at the wall. It's kind of fun. Although it looks like I am doing nothing, I am actually thinking about really important things like world peace, my catster friends, mousies and where to take my next nap.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tagged by Shai Ming</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/549399</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 14 Jan 2009 19:15:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/549399</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged by the lovely Shai Ming!

Tag rules: Write 7 facts about yourself in your diary.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged by the lovely <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/859904">Shai Ming</a>!

Tag rules: Write 7 facts about yourself in your diary. Then tag 7 friends by pmail or by giving them a rosette to let them know you tagged them! Be sure to tag someone who hasn't been tagged yet!

1. I've always wanted a tunnel (like my handsome friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/355336">Benjamin</a>). Here's a fact- my mom bought me one today but when she got it home and took it out of the box, we discovered that it's the tiniest tunnel in the world and I barely even fit in it!

2. I don't like to touch really soft fabrics. I refuse to step on the rug in mom's bedroom, even if my favorite mousie is on the rug!

3. I allow my mom to give me kisses, even on my nose!

4. Sometimes I wake mom up by kneading her hair and making a big mom-hair-nest!

5. I knead and purr in a circle before I lay down and sleep in my Morgan's Bed or on Sophie's bed.

6. I like to groom my doggie, Sophie.

7. When mom whistles, I come running and give her a big headbonk.

I am tagging some of my new friends!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/888252">Roland</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/782983">Mocha</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/944180">Lugosi</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/888814">Tokyo J. Stephens</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/908257">Bridget May</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/919525">Tonka</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/706694">Charlie (aka Mr., Somebody)</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Guaranteed to totally freak your mom out (and get extra treats and loving)!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/548603</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:26:59 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/548603</guid>
		<description>This is my new favorite game. Some of you kitties already know and play this game! For any kitties w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This is my new favorite game. Some of you kitties already know and play this game! For any kitties who haven't tried it yet, here is how you play:

1) This game is best played after a moment in which your mom is distracted AND coming in the front door (I prefer to play it right after mom has entered the house with her arms full of groceries or work stuff).

2) Go to you super sneaky hideout spot (the one your mom doesn't know about it).

3) Take a nice long cat nap. Stay there and don't make a peep.

4) When your mom eventually realizes she hasn't seen you for a while (or actually, hasn't seen you since she came in through the front door), the game REALLY starts. 

5) Do not respond to your name (or any other sound your mom uses to call you).

6) Do not respond to your mom shaking your treat jar or opening a can of your favorite food.

7) This one is really tough- Do not respond when your mom starts shaking your favorite rattle mousie or glitter ball! I know it's hard to stay away, but I promise it will make the game more fun (for you, not for mom).

8) Wait until your mom has checked every one of your known hideouts (it is best to wait until after your mom has gotten on her hands and knees to search under all the beds, the ottoman, and other difficult to reach spots).

9) Wait until your mom's breathing has quickened and you can hear true panic in her voice.

10) After all of these things have occured, wait until your mom is out of the room you are hiding in. Then slowly saunter out and walk past her as if you've been right next to her the whole time. You can throw in a meow or a headbonk if you want.

11) Enjoy the extra loving and treats you get at the end of the game!

Warning: Do not play this game frequently; moms can't handle too much of it! 

Warning: If at any time your mom goes outside to look for you, stop the game! That means the game isn't fun anymore!

love, 
Lucy

P.S. I played this game today. You should have seen the look on my mom's face! And she STILL doesn't know where my new super sneaky hideout is! MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Laundry Day?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/548181</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 11 Jan 2009 08:37:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/548181</guid>
		<description>Dear friends,

My mom washed my beloved Morgan's Bed last night. I didn't know what to do with mys ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Dear friends,

My mom washed my beloved <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5095379">Morgan's Bed</a> last night. I didn't know what to do with myself while I waited! I am so addicted to that bed, it is ALWAYS my first preference for napping! I guess that's why mom wanted to wash it? Anyways, I think I need a second one so that I never, ever have to go without again!

My mom FINALLY scanned in my <a id="img8974934875" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/LucySketch.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img8974934875').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/LucySketch.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'portrait'">portrait</a>. It was done by a young artist (E. Shapley) from mom's hometown in Iowa. My grandparents had her sketch me, Sally, and Sophie as a gift to mom for Christmas. 

Even in the portrait, my eyes are crossed!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547812</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 05:03:37 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547812</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

I love making new friends on Catster! I have to tell you about two new friends. Check ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

I love making new friends on Catster! I have to tell you about two new friends. Check out <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/888252">Roland's</a> page and his photos; his facial expressions and photo captions are so darn funny! Look at him with that pink ball! What a cutie! 

And my newest friend, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/782983">Mocha</a>, looks quite a bit like the younger version of me. I wonder if her markings will get darker as she gets older, too? Very pretty (if I do say so myself)!

Wishing every kitty a nice and relaxing weekend!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>It's official!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547126</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 7 Jan 2009 20:06:09 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547126</guid>
		<description>The culture results from the v-e-t are in and it's official- no ringworm! That's good news. The vet  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The culture results from the v-e-t are in and it's official- no ringworm! That's good news. The vet said we can officially stop worrying about that icky fungus as my last 4 cultures (done over the past two years) have been negative. She said that my leg and skin problems appear to be related to my severe allergies and immune system problems.

The shots I had last weekend helped me to feel better but those shots are only temporary. As soon as I start itching, licking, and/or developing lesions, I am going to start taking Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant drug that will hopefully stop my immune system from attacking......ME! That's not what my own immune system is supposed to do but that's what keeps happening! 

The bad news about this medicine is that it will weaken my immune system so we have to be extra, extra careful about any kitty illnesses I could be exposed to. That means that adopting a new kitty sibling is officially on hold. We can't take any chances that I could be exposed to illness. 

You know what else is official? Mom is feeling officially lazy tonight so I don't think she's going to scan in my portrait this evening. Maybe tomorrow?

Hope all my kitty friends are doing well!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Oh my cat! Grandparents are the best!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547003</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 7 Jan 2009 13:17:38 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/547003</guid>
		<description>Oh my cat! My grandparents sent mom something very special- they had an artist sketch individual por ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my cat! My grandparents sent mom something very special- they had an artist sketch individual portraits of me, my doggie Sophie and my angel kitty sister Sally! They sure know the way to mom's heart- US, her animal babies!

Mom has to go back to work *hisses at work* but when she gets home tonight she is going to see if she can scan them into the computer! 

Woo-hoo! Just what our house needs, MORE images of me, Sophie, and Sally all over the walls and every available surface space!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>FEED ME!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/546414</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 5 Jan 2009 18:20:34 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/546414</guid>
		<description>Holy cat! I'm hungry!!! Really, really hungry! The steroid shot the v-e-t gave me on Saturday is hel ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Holy cat! I'm hungry!!! Really, really hungry! The steroid shot the v-e-t gave me on Saturday is helping my leg to heal (it looks and feels better today) AND it's making me HUNGRY!!!

I'm a skinny kitty and not much of an eater. I usually eat about 3-4 ounces of wet food a day and an 1/8th of a cup of ZiwiPeak; not very much.  Mom gives me more but I don't eat it. That's why I get weight checks at the v-e-t. For the past 4 months, I've held my weight between 9.1 and 9.3 pounds.

But in the last two days I may have gained some weight! I've already eaten 6 ounces of wet food today and I'm still hungry! MOL! FEED ME MOM!!!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The longest meow in the history of the world</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/545566</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 3 Jan 2009 11:26:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/545566</guid>
		<description>Today I meowed the longest meow in the history of the world. It happened in the car on the way home  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I meowed the longest meow in the history of the world. It happened in the car on the way home from the v-e-t's office. I hate the carrier and the car and had just endured icky vet stuff (TWO shots!). I had been meowing the whole way to the vet's office and at the vet's office but I REALLY let mom have it in the car on the way home. 

I looked at her from inside my carrier and howled, "Mrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeoooooooooooooooowwwwwwwww!" And that probably doesn't even do justice to the meow that I let out. 

Now that I'm home, I'm a little more relaxed.

Meow.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Talked to the vet</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/545233</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 2 Jan 2009 14:07:44 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/545233</guid>
		<description>Update from Lucy's mom:

I spoke with the vet today. Still no growth in the fungal culture. The ve ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update from Lucy's mom:

I spoke with the vet today. Still no growth in the fungal culture. The vet thinks the lesion on Lucy's leg is a severe allergic reaction to something. Lucy now has a lesion developing on her chin, too. She can't lick it so it's not nearly as bad as her leg. 

The vet thinks that Lucy's severe allergies and other health issues are the result of some type of an immune system disorder. She presented three different treatment options at this point: continue with the Depo steroid shots (side effects include development of diabetes), start giving Lucy allergy shots (works with some animals, doesn't help with others), or start Lucy on Cyclosporine daily for 6 weeks and then slowly lower the dosage. The vet thinks Lucy may need to be on this medication for the rest of her life. It's an immune system suppressant which would hopefully stop Lucy's immune system from attacking itself.

I asked the vet about a possible allergy to kitty litter. A month ago, due to some litterbox issues, I had started using Cat Attract again and the leg lesion developed after that. I emailed the company and they said they couldn't tell me the ingredients because it's a "trade secret" but they suggested I try a different litter. Hmmm. WHAT is in that litter? I promise I am not going to make it and market it! I just want to make sure it's not making my kitty sick!

I called another company that markets "Allergen free" litter. They told me that, among other things, it is made of "botanical fruits and vegetables." I asked if that includes corn, alfalfa, tomatos, barley, or any of the other things Lucy is allergic to. They are going to get back to me; the person I spoke to didn't know (Poor guy, he was just reading from a script and my questions seriously stumped him. He actually thought I would be satisfied by hearing it's made of "botanical fruits and vegetables"). Anyways, the vet recommended a low dust, fragrance free litter. She said it's possible that Lucy is inhaling allergens (like from her kitty litter) and the result is the lesions.

I also talked to the vet about the timing of the last two really bad lesions; both appeared within 24 hours of me going out of town. Could it be, now that Sally is no longer here, that Lucy is chewing on her leg out of anxiety at being left home alone? Is it separation anxiety and she doesn't want to be left alone? Or is that just me over-analyzing my cat like she is a person? I am going to adopt another kitty but I don't want to do it until Lucy is completely stabilized. 

I'm taking her in to the vet tomorrow for a check up on her leg and chin, possibly an antibiotic shot, and a steroid shot (not depo, something more short term with less side effects). The vet felt like giving her a low dose steroid shot would clear up the current issues and then we could make decisions from there. I am going to change her kitty litter today. Wouldn't it be wonderful if that makes all the difference?

Sorry for hijacking Lucy's diary with medical/health related stuff and sorry that this is so long! I think I'm just trying to process this whole situation. It's so hard to know what the right thing to do is. Obviously, I just want Lucy to be healthy and happy. 

Take care and thanks for listening/reading!
Molly]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy New Year!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/544908</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 1 Jan 2009 16:46:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/544908</guid>
		<description>Happy New Year! Sending lots of love and purrs to all of my friends!

I also want to send concats  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Happy New Year! Sending lots of love and purrs to all of my friends!

I also want to send concats to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/614924">Margo</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/620740">Mikey</a> as they were married today!

And thank you to Catster and the Diary Gal for choosing my angel sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310180">Sally</a> as a New Year's Day Daily Diary Pick!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A New Year</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/544144</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:26:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/544144</guid>
		<description>As the new year approaches I would like to wish all of my friends a very Happy New Year! 

I have  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ As the new year approaches I would like to wish all of my friends a very Happy New Year! 

I have a couple of thoughts about the new year. First of all, I'm not going to make any resolutions; the things that mom would like me to change (i.e., stop opening closet doors, stop sleeping on top of the oven, stop chewing on cords, stop trying to eat the dog food, etc.) are things that I LIKE to do. So instead of making my own resolutions, I propose my mom makes a resolution to stop worrying about me so much! MOL!

This past year was a very sad year in our family. The sudden, unexpected, and devastating loss of my sweet kitty sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310180">Sally</a> broke my mom's heart and continues to bring tears to her eyes whenever she thinks about losing Sally. I miss her too. Now I don't have anyone to chase up and down the stairs or to fully pounce on. Mom and Sophie just aren't as fun at those games.

Sally and I were not active on Catster before Sally passed so our Catster friends never really had the chance to know her as an earth kitty. She was a sweet, quiet beauty who loved nothing more than cuddling with mom, purring and kneading (and drooling on mom!), and napping on mom's lap. Although Sally and I have both had our Catster profiles for a couple of years, we were never active (totally mom's fault!). When Sally passed away, my mom turned to Catster as an outlet to try and process her grief (and if you read Sally's early diary entries that's pretty clear). What she found was an amazingly caring and supportive community of kitties and kitty parents who love their kitties as much as mom loves us. And now she is addicted to Catster! 

Although this past year was so very sad, the sadness led us to Catster. And we love it here. And we love each and every one of our kitty friends.

Purring for a happy and healthy new year for all kitties (and doggies!) and their families.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Update with photos</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543613</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:48:35 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543613</guid>
		<description>Update from Lucy's mom:

The vet called with preliminary results from the fungal culture: so far,  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update from Lucy's mom:

The vet called with preliminary results from the fungal culture: so far, so good. It’s only been 6 days so we’ll wait another 8 days to see if anything grows. It’s good that nothing has grown (it didn’t glow under the special lamp, either). For some reason (immune system disorder? allergies?), Lucy is extremely susceptible to ringworm. Ringworm is very difficult to get rid of and Lucy has a hard time fighting it off so it’s good news if it’s not ringworm. She had a negative fungal culture in September; at that time she had lesions on her head and they went away after the allergy test, steroid shots, and food change. 

But if it’s not ringworm, what is it?

An allergic reaction? Maybe. This poor kitty has such severe allergies. She even had an allergic reaction to Clavamox after her dental. But she’s never had a lesion on her arm; they usually appear on her head, face, and ears. Right now her skin is very clear everywhere except her right leg.

There has been a food change; Lucy ate lamb for a week about 3 weeks ago due to a mishap with getting her regular food. The allergy test said she wasn’t allergic to lamb but she had never had it before. She did get digestive problems from eating it. Maybe she is allergic to lamb and that also caused this skin problem? 

Here's something else a little unusual (although the vet thinks it's just a coincidence); the lesion is occuring exactly where the fur on her arm was shaved for her dental two months ago. What's even weirder is that a few years ago the vet shaved Lucy's head to take a closer look at and treat lesions on her head; Lucy ended up getting severe lesions exactly where she was shaved. Allergic to metal, something about razors, or something else that the vet uses? But why would it take almost 2 months to show a reaction? Hmmm.

Her health issues are so confusing. The up and down cycle of her white blood cells and protein levels, digestive problems, skin problems. What is going on with this kitty and her immune system?

She’s playing, eating, drinking, using the litter box, and seems to be doing really well with this one exception. 

If anyone has any ideas about what this might be, it would be great to hear from you. I’m going to talk to the vet again at the end of the week and then make some decisions about the next step. Maybe another steroid shot? Back to the dermatologist? Or maybe it’s time for a holistic vet? 

<a id="img5213858098" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/DSC01310a.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img5213858098').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/DSC01310a.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'Photo 1'">PHOTO 1</a>

<a id="img8221554512" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/DSC01318.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img8221554512').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/DSC01318.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'Photo 2'">PHOTO 2</a>

These were the best photos I could get- it's hard to take pictures of the inside upper leg area! The lesion is about two inches long and, at the widest part, about an inch across.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Truce!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543320</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 17:50:57 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543320</guid>
		<description>My leg is doing okay. No e-collar today but mom says I might have to wear it tonight because I’ve be ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My leg is doing okay. No e-collar today but mom says I might have to wear it tonight because I’ve been licking this evening. As soon as I can stop licking, it’s time to work on fur-growing! Thankfully, whatever this is on my leg doesn’t seem to be spreading to other parts of my body. The vet will call if/as soon as anything starts growing in the fungal culture they did last week. If nothing grows in the next week, then something else is going on with my leg and I'll have to go back to see the vet. 

It’s possible that I will have to get another steroid shot (as long as this isn’t ringworm b/c ringworm and steroids are not a good mix! We learned that the hard way a couple of years ago). It will be my third steroid shot since August which isn’t good. Mom is looking into holistic veterinary services as a possible alternative to the steroid shots; she's found a couple of holistic vets who make house calls! We just have to wait and see what the culture does.

In other news, I made a truce with the litter box! 
 
When I went to the vet on Tuesday for my leg problem, mom talked to the vet about my tummy/litter box issues. The vet prescribed a special medicine (i.e., laxatives!) to help move things along. And the medicine really, really helped! My tummy feels better, I’m not mad at the litter box anymore and I used it all on my own today! It was a very exciting day in our house. MOL!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mousies? Where oh where are my mousies? *wink*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543182</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 10:41:01 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/543182</guid>
		<description>I got some new mousies. My favorite mousie game is to carry my mousies, one by one, in front of a cl ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got some new mousies. My favorite mousie game is to carry my mousies, one by one, in front of a closed door (usually the bathroom). Then I knock each mousie under the door, out of my reach. The best part of this game? I cry and meow and make a big fuss until mom comes and rescues my mousies!

You know what happens next? The game starts all over again (and again and again and again)! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Ode to Sophie</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/542457</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 26 Dec 2008 08:33:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/542457</guid>
		<description>Dear Sophie,

I am in love with you, my doggie sister. If you go upstairs, I follow. If you are in ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Dear Sophie,

I am in love with you, my doggie sister. If you go upstairs, I follow. If you are in the backyard, I watch through the window and wait for you. If you need to go outside, I let mom know by meowing a special meow and pacing in circles around you. When you are on a walk with mom I wait by the front door until you come back. If you're in your crate, I crawl inside and snuggle up next to you. Or I plant myself in front of the crate (or sometimes on top of it) so I can keep a close eye on you; I want to be right there in case you move.

When you need a good grooming (as dogs OFTEN do), I am there to bathe your head, ears, and paws. I am crazy about you. And I think you like me, too. Sometimes you give me a good sniff and sometimes you poke me with your nose. Silly dog, that always makes me headbonk you in response! I don't really like how you get kind of excited when I have my e-collar on but if I sit very still, you chill out so it's all good.

I REALLY love you. You are the best doggie sister a kitty could ever wish for!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I think I met Santa!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541966</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:47:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541966</guid>
		<description>I think I met Santa today! Except instead of a sleigh drawn by reindeer, he was in a big brown truck ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I think I met Santa today! Except instead of a sleigh drawn by reindeer, he was in a big brown truck. The truck said UPS; I'm not sure what that means but obviously the S is for Santa. And instead of wearing red, he had on brown. He wasn't really what I pictured- he was pretty skinny and young, with brown hair and glasses instead of white hair and a beard. And he came to the front door instead of down the chimney at about 3 pm instead of in the middle of the night. 

But he had packages! Addressed to mom but I'm sure there are presents in there for me and Sophie! Mom had to sign something because they were an "overnight delivery." That Santa is really something! Pretty impressive to find us after the changed travel plans yesterday!!!

Merry Christmas!

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:
Today I am more of a believer in "things happen for a reason" than ever before. Yesterday I was supposed to fly from Phoenix to Memphis and then from Memphis to my hometown of Iowa. Because my little Lucy had an awful owie on her leg, I cancelled my trip. Last night, I checked the status of the flights out of curiosity. And my flight to Iowa from Memphis had been cancelled! And there were no more flights until Christmas Day. If I had gone, I would have spent two nights alone in a Memphis hotel. So staying home with Lucy and Sophie was the right decision for a couple of reasons (Plus, now I get to cuddle with them and give them lots of Christmas loving!).

Lucy's leg still isn't looking very good, but she is active and playing today and not licking, so no need for the e-collar so far today. And on top of everything, my wonderful parents overnighted us Christmas presents. It was so unexpected and thoughtful. We are really feeling the holiday spirit.

Tonight we lit a candle in memory of our sweet Sally cat who passed away suddenly on May 9th. To all of the other families out there who are celebrating this holiday season while missing and grieving for a loved one, kitty or human, we lit a candle for you, too. You are in our thoughts. 

Merry Christmas!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Surprise! A very special Christmas. And Catster friends are the best!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541529</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:15:14 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541529</guid>
		<description>Holy cat! I love all my Catster friends! Thank you for all the sweet messages and rosettes! It's nic ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Holy cat! I love all my Catster friends! Thank you for all the sweet messages and rosettes! It's nice to know that my mom is not the only kitty mom who would change her holiday plans for her kitty- that makes her feel a little less nutty! And Mom's family (my grandparents) has been very understanding about the change in plans so all is well. 

I've mostly been sleeping all day; visits to the v-e-t sure can wear a kitty out. Mom got me a new kind of e-collar; it's soft and bendable. I haven't tried it on yet since I've been mostly sleeping and mom is right next to me to distract me from licking. We'll see how the new collar works out when I get my nightly energy burst. Three years ago I spent 3 (very long) months in an e-collar when I was really sick. At the time I hadn't been diagnosed with allergies yet, the vet didn't know why I was so sick, and my itchy skin was really bothering me. The only way to stop me from hurting myself was the e-collar. So I know my way around with one of those crazy lampshade collars. I just have to be careful not to get my paw/arm stuck inside the collar because I've managed to do that in the past. Luckily my mom is right here to help me if I get stuck.

Guess what? This is the very first Christmas that I have spent with my mom and with Sophie. For the past 7 years I have spent Christmas with my kitty sister Sally and visits from my cat sitter. Sophie stays at the vet's office and mom goes back to the Midwest to spend the holiday with family. This will be my first Christmas without Sally which is very sad but it will be my first Christmas WITH mom and Sophie. Although it wasn't planned and is quite a surprise, this will be a very special Christmas for me. 

I hope each of you, my Catster friends, has your very own special Christmas, Chanukah, or whichever holiday you celebrate.

with love,
Lucy

P.S. My very sweet and handsome friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/619310">Phineas</a> is in the hospital. Purring that he is well enough to come home tomorrow.

P.P.S. My dear friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/497651">Mittens</a> was diagnosed with lymphoma today. Purrs and whisker kisses for Mittens and her loving family.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Vet Visit</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541340</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:04:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541340</guid>
		<description>I went to the vet this morning because I can't stop licking my leg : (
The only good news about all ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to the vet this morning because I can't stop licking my leg : (
The only good news about all of this is that mom has decided to stay home with me and Sophie instead of going on her trip. Sophie owes me, big time, because she was supposed to go to the vet's office for boarding. I can't be boarded because I am not vaccinated due to the life-threatening allergic reaction I had to vaccinations as a kitten.

Thank you for all of your purrs and sweet messages! I am going to be fine, especially now that mom has decided to stay home and her stress level just dropped by a millon percent! A stressed out mom equals a stressed out kitty. 

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:

The vet didn't know what was going on with Lucy's fur loss lesion thing- she thought it was an unusual reaction, too. The vet did a ringworm culture (results will take 1-2 weeks) but Lucy's leg didn't glow under the special lamp. Just in case ringworm or any kind of fungus is causing this, the vet didn't want to give Lucy a steroid shot (as that makes fungi go crazy). Lucy will start taking an oral anti-fungal today. And she'll be in an E-collar for at least a couple of days until, hopefully, her need to lick her leg subsides. If the fungal culture comes back negative, we will probably do another steroid shot but hopefully we can get this under control in the next couple of days.

I am no longer freaking out. Once I made the decision to stay, the stress was gone. Sad about not seeing my family, but no stress. I think Lucy will be just fine (although she'll be pretty irritated when she sees the e-collar).

Happy holidays to everyone. Take care. Thank you for all of your sweet messages.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Not good</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541203</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 22 Dec 2008 22:58:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541203</guid>
		<description>From Lucy's mom: I was busy packing and getting stuff ready for my trip tomorrow when I noticed Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ From Lucy's mom: I was busy packing and getting stuff ready for my trip tomorrow when I noticed Lucy was grooming herself and concentrating on the inside of her front leg. About 5 minutes later I noticed she was still focused on that area so I looked a little closer.

Not good news. She's licked off a large section of hair, about two inches long and an inch wide across her leg (almost all of the fur on the upper part of her leg). The skin is pretty pink. I'm not sure what it is; most likely another allergic reaction to something? But it happened pretty quickly and it's in an unusual spot. Usually her allergic reactions are on her head, ears, and face. I'm really worried, especially because I am supposed to leave tomorrow. Although my trip is a fairly quick trip (3 nights), I'm pretty concerned about leaving her. I'm going to call the vet the second they open in the morning as I may be able to rush her in before my flight. 

I have a really good, capable petsitter coming twice a day but I can't leave Lucy home in an e-collar or anything like that. I'm just not comfortable with that. I may not go on my trip (my family will probably kill me if I miss Christmas- they already think I'm overly crazy about my animals) but I just can't leave her if she is really sick or could hurt herself being alone for extended periods of time. 

It's so frustrating and worrisome. It really seemed like her allergies were under control these past couple of months. I don't even know if this is from her allergies or if this is a bigger immune system issue. But I'm worried. We'll see what the vet has to say in the morning......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks Oliver! (Updated)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541086</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 22 Dec 2008 20:38:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/541086</guid>
		<description>My friend Oliver sent me the picture that he said reminded him of me. The artist is Lowell Herrero a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> sent me the picture that he said reminded him of me. The artist is Lowell Herrero and the kitty's name is Hugo Hege. It's pretty cute!

<a id="img9871969814" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/FromOliver.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img9871969814').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/FromOliver.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'Not me (but Hugo Hege is pretty cute)!'">Not me (but Hugo Hege is pretty cute)!</a> 

<a id="img8119102365" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/Crazyeyes.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img8119102365').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/Crazyeyes.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'ME!'">Me!</a>

Do you see a resemblence?

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Uh oh</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/540701</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Dec 2008 18:00:02 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/540701</guid>
		<description>Dang, mommy just pulled out her big suitcase AND her winter coat. Sophie and I both know what that m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Dang, mommy just pulled out her big suitcase AND her winter coat. Sophie and I both know what that means. And we're not too happy about it. 

In other (better) news, my sweet friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> pmailed me to say that the new photo on my page (of me with my eyes crossed AGAIN- thanks a lot Mom) reminds him of a painting/print of a kitty with a butterfly on her nose and her eyes crossed! That made mom laugh and laugh because it DOES look like I am looking at something on my nose! This is how crazy my eyes are: I was actually looking UP at a mousie my mom was holding! Not only are my eyes crossed but one pupil is three times as big as the other! Crazy eyes!

love,
Lucy

P.S. <a id="img8119102365" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/Crazyeyes.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img8119102365').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/Crazyeyes.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'Check out my crazy eyes!'">Check out my crazy eyes!</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Great Escape of 2008</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/540184</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Dec 2008 07:40:41 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/540184</guid>
		<description>At 8 am an electrician came to my house to change out a couple of electrical receptacles/outlets (be ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ At 8 am an electrician came to my house to change out a couple of electrical receptacles/outlets (because mom tripped over her laptop cord and the outlet never fully recovered!). Normally I hide out upstairs and wait until a strange workman leaves but today was a little different. Sophie was in mom’s bedroom with the door shut (I guess mom didn’t feel like Sophie needed to meet the electrician?) so I couldn’t go in there. I thought about hanging out in the guest bedroom but this guy smelled kind of interesting so I stuck around. I even walked up to him and sniffed his shoes! He later told mom that his favorite pastime is fishing; maybe that’s why he smelled so good?!

Anyways, at one point he had to go out to his truck. Mom closed the door behind him and then turned and walked into the kitchen to get *edit-try and find* her checkbook. What she didn’t see was that the front door didn’t shut all the way! Believe me, I saw it! And before mom walked back into the living room, I had meandered my way right out the front door!

I’d never been out the front door before, FREE! I don’t know what I was expecting but the cold concrete was less than inviting. And I didn’t see any birds out there. Or mousies. I’d finally made it out the front door and I had no clue what to do!

So when I heard mom’s panicked voice calling out to me as she rushed to the front door, I turned and ran back into the house. That made mom REALLY happy and she gave me all kinds of loving! I wonder if I’ll get a new mousie out of this adventure?

Home is where I am!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Countdown!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/539933</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:54:17 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/539933</guid>
		<description>When mom left for work this morning, she said that when she gets home this afternoon, she will be on ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom left for work this morning, she said that when she gets home this afternoon, she will be on vacation from work! For two whole weeks and 3 weekends!  

Mom will be going out of town next week for a couple of days and my cat sitter will be coming by twice daily to feed me and give me lots of loving, but other than that, it's all about me, Sophie, and mom, at home! No work! For TWO whole weeks!

Counting down the minutes to 5 pm......

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Champion of the litterbox!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/539732</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 18 Dec 2008 18:49:44 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/539732</guid>
		<description>I used the litterbox tonight. Apparently in my mom's eyes, using the litterbox is as amazing as winn ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I used the litterbox tonight. Apparently in my mom's eyes, using the litterbox is as amazing as winning an olympic gold medal or the lottery. Moms can be so weird.

As some of you may know, I often blame the litterbox for my tummy troubles. I see the litterbox as the enemy when my tummy hurts. Tonight my mom used her mommy detective skills to determine that I needed to go. She carried me into the litterbox room, sat down next to the litterbox, and talked to me. At first I didn't think I needed to use it. I headbonked mom, purred, and completely ignored the litterbox. 

And then, all of a sudden, I realized I needed to use the litterbox! It just came to me, like a revelation! So I hopped in, did my business, and QUICKLY hopped out.

My mom is a nut! She was dancing around and cheering for me. I was like, "Cool. Are we done in here?' And I bolted out the door and down the stairs. I was grooming myself from my cat condo, trying hard to forget about the perils of the litterbox, when my mom came down the stairs. I realized she had something in her hand.

Something even better than an olympic gold medal. 

A new mousie! Just for me! Wow, all this hoopla for using the litterbox? Sweet!

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:

Tonight was a good night and I'm hopeful that Lucy's tummy is feeling better. Two things happened that caused this latest allergy flare-up. 3 weeks ago, the store where I buy her Ziwipeak said they had the food but when I went to pick it up, they didn't have it. They then ordered it from the distributor and I was to pick it up in 4 days. When I went to pick it up, they realized the distributor FORGOT to send the cat formula! Oh no! And then we ran out of the Ziwipeak at home......

Lucy is SO sensitive to food changes. I was just supplementing her wet food with the Ziwipeak venison so I wasn't sure how big of an impact this would have on her (but I was worried).  After calling every store in Arizona that carries Ziwipeak, I was informed that no stores had any of the food Lucy eats in stock. Luckily, the Ziwipeak company came to my rescue and got me in touch with an online store that express shipped it. 

But some damage had been done. Overall, it took 6 days to get the right formula into Lucy's bowl. In the meantime, I had tried introducing a different Ziwipeak formula (in retrospect, horrible idea). Well, poor Lucy started having all kinds of tummy problems and some hairloss on her front legs.

She's been back on her regular diet for about 6 days. I am breathing a sigh of relief that tonight's trip to the litterbox was a success. 

And I now have about a year's supply of Ziwipeak in the cupboard.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Brrr! And Snuggles!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538729</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:29:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538729</guid>
		<description>It's cold here! I know, I know, some of you may be rolling your eyes. After all, we live in Phoenix  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's cold here! I know, I know, some of you may be rolling your eyes. After all, we live in Phoenix and it's probably warmer here than where many of my Catster friends live. But I'm telling you, it's extra cold today! And it's raining! Brrr!

Luckily, when it rains I have a very special warm and fuzzy place that I like to go to. I curl up and sleep there until the rain stops. Want to see the special place I go when it's cold and raining? <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/together">CLICK HERE</a>! 

love,
Lucy

P.S. Sending purrs to all the kitties and their families who are experiencing severe winter weather. Be safe and stay warm!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Catster Marketplace! (Oh, and free zealies anyone?)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538028</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Dec 2008 06:21:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538028</guid>
		<description>I LOVE the new Catster Marketplace! What a wonderful idea to showcase all of the creative, crafty an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I LOVE the new <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Catster_marketplace-15358">Catster Marketplace</a>! What a wonderful idea to showcase all of the creative, crafty and talented Catsters and their well-made, handcrafted kitty goodies (I LOVE my new <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5095379">Morgan's Bed</a>! And no, mom STILL hasn't gotten a good photo of me in it). If your mom or dad is like my mom (not creative OR crafty), you can still join! Shoppers are welcome! 

In other exciting Catster news, Catster is testing out a new game- the <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/games/cat-breed-photo-game/">Cat Breed Photo Game</a>. The best part about this game? You can win free zealies just in time for the holidays! LOTS of free zealies if you have a little time on your hands! A little hint- it's basically a memory game. It's a little slow to earn points when you first start but the more you play, the quicker you earn points and zealies!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Allergy flare up and Mom-trickery</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538025</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:19:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/538025</guid>
		<description>Darn, my tummy started hurting again. It's not too serious just yet and mom is trying to help my tum ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Darn, my tummy started hurting again. It's not too serious just yet and mom is trying to help my tummy stablize by limiting my food to one brand of canned with a little sprinkle of Ziwipeak. I had been doing really well on a rotation of about 4 different wet foods for the past couple of months but for the past week and a half, I've been showing signs of some tummy problems and a little itchy skin. 

Bummer. I blame the litterbox. I think it is scary in there because that is where my tummy REALLY hurts and where bad things seem to happen when my tummy hurts. So I try to avoid it. Mom and I are not on the same page about that and she is using mom-trickery to convince me the litterbox isn't a bad place. 

Who does she think she's fooling?

love,
Lucy

P.S. For any kitties out there who also have allergies, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Cats_with_allergies-14743">Cats with Allergies</a> is a Catster group that is open to any kitty and is a nice place to receive support from other kitties with allergies. <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Cats_with_allergies-14743">Click HERE to join</a>!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Here I am!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/536225</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 8 Dec 2008 11:46:24 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/536225</guid>
		<description>I wasn't getting enough attention this morning. Mom was petting Sophie and giving her treats. I watc ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I wasn't getting enough attention this morning. Mom was petting Sophie and giving her treats. I watched from the top of my cat tree, waiting for my turn for the attention. I couldn't believe my eyes when my mom turned from Sophie and started doing OTHER things. Weird mom things like picking up my kitty toys and putting them in the toy basket, folding blankets, and cleaning. She wasn't even noticing me!

So I said, "Mew." And from atop my cat tree, I stuck my bottom up in the air and flopped the front part of my body down. I bonked and rubbed my head against the cat tree, purring as loudly as I could. And I looked at mom again, with my head upside down and my bottom in the air, and I said, "Mew."

That's all it took. She couldn't resist : )

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sorry Mom. No photos today!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535799</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 7 Dec 2008 08:48:04 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535799</guid>
		<description>My mom has been trying so hard to get a good photo of me in my new pink Morgan's Bed. It shouldn't b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom has been trying so hard to get a good photo of me in my new pink <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5095379">Morgan's Bed</a>. It shouldn't be hard- I love it and I've been spending most of my time in it for the past 48 hours. But whenever I see her coming with her camera, I hop out! Or I keep my eyes closed (not a fan of the flash!). 

So her plan was to wait until we had good natural lighting in the house today and get a photo without using the flash. It's a pretty good plan......




Except that today in the valley of the sun, there is no sun. Only big gray clouds. *giggles*

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Snowflakes in Arizona?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535511</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 6 Dec 2008 09:48:36 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535511</guid>
		<description>I've received two snowflake rosettes! I've never even seen snow before so this is very exciting to h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've received two snowflake rosettes! I've never even seen snow before so this is very exciting to have snowflakes on my page!!! Thanks to my dear friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/777900">Hunter</a> for the snowflake and the very sweet message! *blushes*

This morning, I received an anonymouse snowflake! It said:

“A special kitty deserves a little recognition! Hope you have a wonderful holiday season! Purrrs & whisker kisses!” 

Isn't that sweet? A big thank you and purrs and whisker kisses right back at ya, anonymous rosette giver! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello ball!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535304</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 6 Dec 2008 08:45:38 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535304</guid>
		<description>Mom found the ball from my ball in the track toy! Although it was really cool to finally get that ba ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom found the ball from my ball in the track toy! Although it was really cool to finally get that ball free from the track and hide it, it made my ball in the track toy a whole lot of no fun. It turns out that the ball in the track toy doesn't do much without the ball.

I was very excited when mom finally tracked down the ball. It was wedged between my kitty condo and the couch! As soon as mom found it she popped it back into the track and I ran over and pounced on it! Woo-hoo!

Now let's see how long it takes me to figure out how to get that ball out again! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>FINALLY!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535035</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 4 Dec 2008 17:20:40 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/535035</guid>
		<description>Guess what? I finally got THAT DARN BALL out of the track! I KNEW I could do it and that is why I ha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Guess what? I finally got <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/video/310190/playtime">THAT DARN BALL</a> out of the track! I KNEW I could do it and that is why I have obsessively worked on freeing that ball for many, many months.

The funniest part? I got it out (while mom was at work) and hid it. Mom can't find it. MOL!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Warm and Toasty</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/534769</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 3 Dec 2008 18:58:44 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/534769</guid>
		<description>I like warmth. I like to find the warmest spot in the house. Sometimes the warmest spot in the house ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I like warmth. I like to find the warmest spot in the house. Sometimes the warmest spot in the house is a spot that mom doesn't want me to lay on. Something about my safety? *Mom's edit- please don't lay on top of the oven!* Aw, mom! I'm a big girl, I can take care of myself. Okay, I'll stay out of the kitchen (as long as the dryer is running!).

Lately, the warmest spot in the house is mom's laptop. I like to curl up next to it or behind it and it keeps me toasty! Sometimes I fall asleep next to it and slowly work my way ON it until I'm all sprawled out, covering it with my body.

Sometimes when I do that, the computer makes weird beeps. Then mom makes me get off the laptop. *shrugs* 

love,
Lucy

P.S. Look who's Cat of the Week!!! A lovely honor for the sweetest kitty <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a>! Sending heartfelt purrs to Muppet as she recovers from her surgery!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A special surprise!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/534343</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 2 Dec 2008 15:53:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/534343</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

Guess what? I finally got my very own Morgan's Bed! We were bidding on a really cool  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

Guess what? I finally got my very own <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5095379">Morgan's Bed</a>! We were bidding on a really cool pirate bed in the auction for sweet <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Muppets_bucket_hq_approved_fundraiser-15216">Muppet's Bucket (HQ approved fundraiser)</a> and we got outbid! Well, I had my heart set on one so mom went ahead and got me a really cute pink one made out of really nice fabric that has pink ribbons on it for breast cancer awareness. Mom said she will post photos as soon as I let her take one! 

Guess what else was in the box? <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/267400">Morgan the Pirate Gato</a> also sent me some kitty toys including a pink mousie! I love it! And, Morgan's sweet and thoughtful doggie sisters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/210457">Gypsy Simone</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/210461">Amber</a> sent my doggie sister a squeaky snowman dog toy! And she LOVES it! She played and played with it and then laid on top of it and took a nap! MOL! We love you Morgan, Gypsy Simone, Amber, and family!!! Thank you!!!

I did win a special treat in the auction! Thank you to my new friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/90616">Spot</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/90631">Haley Ann</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/90747">Jones</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/145577">Beau Beau</a> for my lovely new rainbow catnip pillows! Thank you! I love them and it has been so amazing to be a part of Muppet's Bucket!  

It feels like Christmas came early to my house!

love,
Lucy

P.S. Purring and purring and purring for Muppet as she has her surgery tomorrow. We love you Muppet!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello Furminator!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533597</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 30 Nov 2008 15:59:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533597</guid>
		<description>Oh cat, do I love my furminator! I purr and bonk like crazy while mom is furminating me! Today I eve ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh cat, do I love my furminator! I purr and bonk like crazy while mom is furminating me! Today I even tried to give the furminator and mom's forearm some love nips. The furminator didn't mind the love nips but mom didn't seem all that crazy about it!

After my lovely furminating session, I zoomed all over the house! I climbed up my kitty tree and then jumped off of it. I ran across the room, knocked my bed off of the window seat and sideswiped my tunnel in all my zoomy craziness! 

Sophie watched me from her doggie bed with her eyebrows raised. She doesn't like the furminator (or any grooming except my expert kitty grooming!). She doesn't get the zoomies very often, either. When she's feeling like a wily coyote dog, she wiggles her bottom and makes funny growly noises. When she does that, I like to stalk her crazy tail and give it a couple of good paw smacks! It's hard to catch when her tail's wagging AND her bottom's wiggling!

Okay, I'm off again ~ let's see what kind of zoomy damage I can do upstairs!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Drinkwell?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533185</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 29 Nov 2008 11:06:17 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533185</guid>
		<description>Hi kitties!

My mom has a question for those of you with Drinkwell water fountains. She's been thi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitties!

My mom has a question for those of you with Drinkwell water fountains. She's been thinking of getting one for me but there's one little issue- I like to chew on cords! I know, I know, it's not very safe. But when I see a cord, I just can't help myself. I want to chomp on it! Don't worry ~ right now I don't have any access to cords; a long time ago my mom covered all cords in the house to prevent me from chewing on them and getting hurt. But what about the drinkwell? It has a cord, right? Is there a way to set it up so that the fountain blocks it's own cord? Let me know if you have any thoughts on this!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Closet re-organizing services available</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533006</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 28 Nov 2008 18:32:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/533006</guid>
		<description>When mom leaves the house, sometimes she says to Sophie and me, &quot;Feel free to run the vacuum or pick ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom leaves the house, sometimes she says to Sophie and me, "Feel free to run the vacuum or pick up a little while I'm at work." She's obviously kidding (right?) as neither Sophie or I want anything to do with that crazy fur eating machine! But I do try to help out in my own way (between naps, watching birds out the window, and Sophie grooming).

Lately I've heard mom mention she would like to clean out and organize the upstairs linen closet. Well, I can help out with that! Late last night, I opened the closet door by putting my paw under it and pulling! Mom's not sure exactly how I managed to get on three seperate shelves, but I did! I then proceeded to clear out the (previously) clean sheets, towels, and pillow cases, pushing most of them out of the closet, to the floor. 

You should have seen mommy's face when she woke up this morning and saw all the hardwork I did last night. She was so proud!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mommy's Shadow</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/532755</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 27 Nov 2008 20:23:16 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/532755</guid>
		<description>I finally emerged from the laundry room. Now I'm stuck to mom's side like glue; I don't want to be a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I finally emerged from the laundry room. Now I'm stuck to mom's side like glue; I don't want to be away from her just in case those big thunder booms come back again! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A little advice</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/532732</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:09:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/532732</guid>
		<description>Wow, we are having big thunderstorms here! It rained all day yesterday and a bit this morning. The w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, we are having big thunderstorms here! It rained all day yesterday and a bit this morning. The weather lady said that the rain would stop by afternoon and it did. Mom opened the windows to feel the nice breeze and we had a lovely afternoon! But then, out of nowhere, a HUGE thunderstorm started up, right above our house! Mom was upstairs when the huge thunderbooms started and it took her a couple of minutes to remember that the windows in the living room were open...

She ran downstairs and shut them before it started raining in the house but, unfortunately, the psychological damage to Sophie and to me had already occured. Sophie immediately started pacing and panting and following mom around. Then I started meowing and pacing, too. Normally we both head straight to Sophie's den and curl up together until the weather passes but guess where Sophie's den is? Yep, the living room! Well, when the window was open, the storm sounded really loud and scary so Sophie and I didn't feel very safe in her crate! 

Then, when mom wasn't looking, I popped open the laundry room door with my paw and scampered behind the washing machine and under a little cabinet thing. Mom keeps trying to coax me out but I'm not budging. Not until the storm is long long gone. 

Sophie finally went into her crate; mom had to give her a little medicine to help her calm down as she was really distressed. I'll probably come out from the laundry room and snuggle in with Sophie in a little bit; that really is the safest, coziest place in my opinion! 

My advice to mommy? Next time, instead of listening to the weather lady on t.v., mom should keep her eyes on the sky and the windows closed BEFORE it starts raining!

love,
Lucy

P.S. Happy Thanksgiving to all of my sweet friends in Catsterland!!! I love you!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thankful</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/531469</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:01:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/531469</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged by my dear friend Mittens to play the Thanksgiving tag!

I will list 5 things I a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged by my dear friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/497651">Mittens</a> to play the Thanksgiving tag!

I will list 5 things I am thankful for and then list the 5 kitties that I am tagging:

1. I am so thankful to be a part of the caring community of Catster, especially when Catsters pull together to help out and support a Catster in need. Beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/624959">Muppet</a>, who was rescued by her loving family from an awful and devastating situation, is in need of a special surgery for her ears. Please join the group <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/group/Muppets_bucket_hq_approved_fundraiser-15216">Muppet's Bucket (HQ approved fundraiser)</a> to read Muppet's amazing story of survival and to find out ways that you can help! And check out the auction at <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://thecatintheclover.blogspot.com/">The Cat in the Clover</a> for some really cute stuff! We've already started bidding!

2. I am thankful to be healthy and happy (and thankful that I don't have to see the v-e-t for 6 months to a year!).

3. I am thankful for my loving family and for every moment that I get to share with my doggie sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a>. I love her so very much!

4. I am thankful for my mousies, especially the greenish yellow one! It wouldn't be nearly as fun to play without him!

5. I am thankful for Catster and all of my Catster friends. Thanks for reading my diary and sharing in my kitty life! And thank you for all of the purrs that you sent when I was so sick in August. It meant the world to me!

I am tagging:

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/708719">Apollo</a> 
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> 
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82490">Hershey</a>

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Don't forget to read the label!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/529493</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:01:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/529493</guid>
		<description>Mom apparently had some reading comprehension issues with the label of my new treats. The label says ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom apparently had some reading comprehension issues with the label of my new treats. The label says MUST be refrigerated after opening. Unfortunately, when mom finally read this, it was 14 hours after she opened the treats : ( She threw the rest out for safety. So that means the one treat I had yesterday and the two treats that Sophie had yesterday were $10 treats! They were good, but not THAT good.

love,
Lucy

P.S. I snuck some of Sophie's dry food again today. I think she leaves a few kibbles just for me. You know what I say- allergies, schmallergies. Sadly, my mom doesn't follow the allergies, schmallergies philosophy. She says I can't have any more dog food : (]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello kitty treats!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/529088</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:04:45 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/529088</guid>
		<description>Wow, I'm really feeling good these days! My skin is all clear (ALL CLEAR!!!!!!) and my tummy has not ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, I'm really feeling good these days! My skin is all clear (ALL CLEAR!!!!!!) and my tummy has not only stopped hurting,but it's feeling good! And I've found more new foods that I like! And to top it all off, I ate my first kitty treat today. My first kitty treat EVER!

Can you believe I've never had a treat before? BAD MOMMY! MOL! Just kidding! Mom tried to give me treats but I always refused them and let Sally eat them. Then I got sick from my food allergies and mom stopped trying to give me treats (which turned out to be a good thing as I'm allergic to almost every kind of treat in the world).

Here's what happened today: Mom was looking through the Lucy Manual, trying to identify foods that I can eat/am not allergic to and foods that a kitten could eat, too (wow, there's really been a kitten theme circling around our house. I'm not sure exactly what that means, but my friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/497651">Mittens</a> told me "kitten" is a code word for trouble pending in my future along with non-stop aggravation! So far, it's only meant a new kitty tree but we'll see what happens after the holidays). Anyways, mom noticed some treats called Halo Liv-A-Little treats listed in the Lucy Manual. She had never seen the company or treats in any of the stores she goes to so she looked online. She found them and thought that she might order some in the future just to see if I might like them.

Well, the future sure came quick! She was at Whole Foods today and she saw that they carry the treats there!!! So she bought some and brought them home. They are freeze dried pieces of chicken and salmon so they don't have any of the stuff that I'm allergic to. She tried to give me one and what did I do? I tried to bury it and walked away. So then, my sneaky mom crushed it up a little and put it in my bowl with my dinner. Guess what? I ate it! All of it! And I liked it! Finally, a kitty treat just for me!

love,
Lucy

P.S. The treats are for cats AND dogs so Sophie got some, too! Yum!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Saturdays! And no, mom, you may not take a photo of me.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528270</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:39:55 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528270</guid>
		<description>I LOVE Saturdays! Sophie and I snuggled with mom this morning and then we had yummy breakfast and th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I LOVE Saturdays! Sophie and I snuggled with mom this morning and then we had yummy breakfast and then we played! Mom tried to get some photos of me in my new cat tree and of Sophie on her new dog bed. We pretty much refused to comply. No photos, mom!

So Mom thinks she's being sneaky by keeping the camera on the coffee table so she can get a quick shot next time I climb up the cat tree. We'll see; she'll have to be really quick and sneaky. I just don't think she has it in her.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Purrs for my friend Stoney and his family</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528045</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:47:21 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528045</guid>
		<description>My friend Stoney made his journey to the bridge this week. I am so sad about his sudden and unexpect ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/819881">Stoney</a> made his journey to the bridge this week. I am so sad about his sudden and unexpected passing. Sending purrs of comfort and love to his loving family.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tagged by a Catster Beauty</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528044</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:41:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/528044</guid>
		<description>I was tagged by my new friend, the beautiful Kya. She recently found her forever home and she has he ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was tagged by my new friend, the beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/900099">Kya</a>. She recently found her forever home and she has her own doggie just like I have Sophie! If you haven't met her yet, stop by her page. She's adorable!

7 different and amazing things about myself.

1. I come running when my mom whistles.

2. I talk, all day and night long.

3. I like to snuggle with my dog Sophie and I like to groom her face, ears, and paws. My friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a> says I am a Sophie addict!

4. When visitors come to my house, I like to sniff their hair. If they need a bath, I'll happily groom them, too.

5. I play fetch (and I'm good at it!).

6. I tried a new food tonight- TURKEY! Yum! I really liked it! Just in time for Thanksgiving!

7. I love all of my mousies but I prefer my yellowish green mousie above all other mousies. If you offer me a bunch of different mousies, I will ALWAYS chose the yellow/green mousie to play with. Always.

If you would like to play, consider yourself tagged!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Further Evidence......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/527538</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 19:16:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/527538</guid>
		<description>I continue to wield amazing powers over my mom. Over the past week, I noticed her inspecting my kitt ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I continue to wield amazing powers over my mom. Over the past week, I noticed her inspecting my kitty condo tree. She mentioned something about the tree being "worn down" and she said something about how we'd probably need a new one before we adopt a kitten. Kitten? Whatever. New cat tree? WOO-HOO!!!!!!

Today, in order to speed along the process, I started chewing on a loose string on my current cat condo. Mom didn't like that at all (my pica really adds to my abilities to persuade my mom).

Tonight mom walked in the door with a super pawsome new cat tree! It's about a foot taller than my last one and has three cozy beds on it!!! *Mom's edit: nice (and affordable) cat trees are so hard to find! I went to four different stores today before I found one that was nice and sturdy*

Well, when mom opened the door and started to push/pull/carry this new tree in, I immediately ran over, scratched it, and jumped on it! Oooooh, I LOVE it! Mom kept trying to shoo me off but I made her carry it across the room with me lying on it!!! Sadly, the fun is on hold because my mom finally did shoo me off so that she could clean it. Now it's kind of wet and I have to wait for it to dry : ( It looked clean enough to me but apparently mom wasn't taking any chances.

Mom cleaned up my old cat tree and moved it upstairs to my bedroom- oops, I mean the guest bedroom. I approve: now I can closely watch guests while they sleep and I can attack any bed mice the guests might bring with them. Perfect.

love,
Lucy

Update: 

It's been about an hour since the new tree arrived in the living room. I am already feeling nostalgic for my old kitty tree. Mom just found me lying on it upstairs in the guest bedroom.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Normal and Loving It!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/525700</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 9 Nov 2008 12:48:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/525700</guid>
		<description>Guess which cross-eyed, spotted pawed, fetch playing, mousie chasing, meezer meowing, tuna loving, S ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Guess which cross-eyed, spotted pawed, fetch playing, mousie chasing, meezer meowing, tuna loving, Sophie addicted kitty had NORMAL blood test results on Friday? 

Yep, that's right.......ME!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Silly and Thankful All at Once!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/525008</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 7 Nov 2008 17:50:37 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/525008</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged, twice! I was tagged by my delightful friend Margo to play Margo's Silly Tag Game!  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged, twice! I was tagged by my delightful friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/614924">Margo</a> to play Margo's Silly Tag Game! Here goes......

1. How mene toes duz yew hab? 
I have the typical amount of kitty toes. Some of my toes/paw pads are pink and some are black like polka dots!

2. Is yew marreed? 
Nope

3. Duz yew hab short, medium, or long hairs? 
Mostly short with some medium hairs

4. Duz yew likes tew dress up? 
        No thanks!

5. Hoo gots da stinkeeeest gas in yore house??? 
Can you believe that I never pass gas? My doggie sister doesn't, either. NEVER. So that leaves the humans......

6. How mene toys duz yew hab? 
In my world, EVERYTHING is a toy! But my favorite toys are my mousies, glitter balls, Mr. Fishie, and of course, SOPHIE!       

7. Is yore tale straight, kinked, curly, fat, thin, or jus rite? 
Depends on my mood and what I am doing......

8. Hab yew eber killed a reel mousie?? 
            No but I've killed quite a few of my toy mousies.

9. Is yew beeyooteeful, hansum, or uglee?? 
Can you believe that when mom adopted me, some people at the Humane Society told her I was the ugliest cat they had ever seen?  Boy were they wrong! I am BEAUTIFUL.

10. Is yew da King ob da house, Kween ob da house, or da Serbint?????
I am the baby! More of a princess than a queen. But either way, I pretty much do whatever I want.



I also got tagged by my cool friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/885437">Captain</a> in the Thankful Tag Game. 

5 things I am thankful for:

1. I am thankful to be in my forever home with my mom and my doggie Sophie.

2. I am thankful that I got to spend 6 years with my big kitty sister Sally before she became an angel.

3. I am thankful for the new bed my mom bought for Sophie. Holy cat, I love that bed!

4. I am thankful that I am feeling better and eating foods that don't make my tummy hurt and my skin all itchy. I am also thankful that I finally got to try tuna! YUM!

5. I am thankful for Catster and all of my Catster friends. I love you!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A mini me!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/524940</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 7 Nov 2008 15:17:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/524940</guid>
		<description>I went to the v-e-t today. It was just a quick trip- they took some of my blood and then I got to go ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to the v-e-t today. It was just a quick trip- they took some of my blood and then I got to go home. I did get pretty upset with my mommy about the whole thing. I yelled at her in the car, I yelled at her in the v-e-t's office, and I've been giving her a (very loud, vocal) piece of my mind all day! That'll teach her to put me in that darn carrier, take me in the car, and hand me over to vet tech vampires!

Besides the whole vampire issue, I really love the techs! One of them came up front to say hi to me and to mom and she was really excited. She told us that earlier in the day a kitty who had just been adopted from the Humane Society came in for her first appointment and guess what? She looked just like me! Just like me only smaller! The tech said everyone was gushing over Torie, the new kitty, because she reminded them of me! And she came from the Humane Society where I came from! She's only 1 though (and already a momma  kitty: ( But now she's spayed and safe in her forever home!).

A mini-me! Can you believe it?

love,
Lucy

P.S. I got tagged twice today! I am going to play as soon as mom is done working today. *Lucy does the happy Friday dance!*]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello linen closet!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/523609</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 4 Nov 2008 18:18:05 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/523609</guid>
		<description>This morning when mom woke up, she noticed that the linen closet door was open. She went to close it ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This morning when mom woke up, she noticed that the linen closet door was open. She went to close it and luckily she peeked in first because guess who was all cozy admist the folded pillowcases on the second shelf? Yep, me! I peeked out at her, reached out my paw, and yawned, "Hi Mom." She laughed and left the door open so I could hop out when I was ready!

My angel sister Sally taught me how to open doors and cabinets but I don't do it very often. Sally also loved to lay admist the linen in the little closet! She was a smart kitty. It's my new favorite spot, at least for today. I'm sure mom thinks she is going to get a photo of me in there but we'll see how that goes : )

love,
Lucy

P.S. I've got the zoomies tonight! I'm so excited about two things ~ My dearest friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a> is on the home page as Catster's Diary of the Day! Woo hoo! Concats Doc! I'm also excited about the election! Well actually, I'm excited about election night which means lots of cuddles as mom watches the results on the news! Go Obama!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sunday evening and a little drool</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522830</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Nov 2008 20:51:43 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522830</guid>
		<description>I love the weekends! Tonight I'm all curled up next to mom and her laptop. It's so nice and warm and ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I love the weekends! Tonight I'm all curled up next to mom and her laptop. It's so nice and warm and cozy and it's one of my favorite places to sleep. Sometimes I try to eat the cursor or I try to lay across the keyboard but tonight I'm happy just lying next to it.

Mom was giving me loving and rubbing my chin. Purrrrr ~ I loved it! In fact, I loved it so much that I drooled all over mom's hand! I couldn't help it! She's my mom though, so she doesn't mind a little drool.

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>All about food!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522692</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Nov 2008 14:31:14 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522692</guid>
		<description>I found a new food that I like! Now I have four different kinds of food from four different brands t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I found a new food that I like! Now I have four different kinds of food from four different brands that I'm willing to eat! And it's kind of a relief to have some variety among flavors and brands. I'm a picky eater so it's taken mom about 7 years to FINALLY get it right. And? No lesions or hives on my skin in almost two weeks! Mom and I are both so happy! 

Mom has to go to a special boutique to get my Ziwipeak; we're really lucky there's a store so close to us that imports it all the way from New Zealand! When she went on Friday, she bought the very last bag so she made the people at the store PROMISE to order more! 

The store is really cute. It's called Bark Avenue but it's not just for doggies! They have a huge parrot that lives there and guess what? Her name is Lucy, too! I've never met her but mom tells me all about her. She's not in a cage or anything. She just hangs out on this huge tree thing in the middle of the store, eating and talking. Mom always spends some time talking to Lucy the parrot and Lucy talks back! She says "Yes" and nods her head up and down. She also says "apple" and "hello." She's a cool bird.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Species Identity Crisis?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522103</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 31 Oct 2008 19:24:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/522103</guid>
		<description>Here are the reasons mom thinks I might be a dog dressed in a cat suit:

1. I love fetch. Really,  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Here are the reasons mom thinks I might be a dog dressed in a cat suit:

1. I love fetch. Really, REALLY love to play fetch!

2. I come running when mom whistles for me. Seriously. RUNNING!

3. Lately I've been trying to eat the dog's food. Allergies schmallergies.

4. When anyone enters my house, I come running to greet them.

5. I like to hang out in the dog crate, with or without Sophie.

6. I like to chew on things. Shoes, cell phone charger cord, curtains, whatever.

7. I like to lick (kiss) things. Actually, I'm not kissing when I lick, I truly lick. Maybe that's evidence that I'm truly a cat.

8. I love to have my tummy rubbed. Love it!

Tell me, friends, am I the only kitty that engages in these apparently "dog-like" activities? You guys like to get tummy rubs too, right? And seriously, dog food is kinda tasty......

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Forgiveness</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/521322</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:28:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/521322</guid>
		<description>A very interesting conversation occured between mom and the v-e-t today:

To quote my vet- &quot;Let's  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A very interesting conversation occured between mom and the v-e-t today:

To quote my vet- "Let's stop torturing the poor kitty. The medicine is doing more harm than good. Don't give her any more." 

WOO-HOO! That makes me want to dance around and celebrate!!!!!! I HATE that medicine (and it hurts my tummy). Mom says that we have to go back in a week to check my white blood cell count but I can handle that! It's the darn medicine that I hate!

Plus, my mom was really starting to irritate me by making me take all those pills. I've been avoiding her lately and giving her the evil eye whenever she walks near the medicine cabinet. She's going to have to work really, really hard to win back my affection and trust......

Wait a minute. What's that I smell? Could it be...... tuna? TUNA! All is forgiven! Thanks mom!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Busted!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520966</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:32:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520966</guid>
		<description>Oh no! Mom's on to my secret! I just totally got busted eating Sophie's dog food.

It's not my fau ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh no! Mom's on to my secret! I just totally got busted eating Sophie's dog food.

It's not my fault she didn't finish her breakfast. I was just trying to help out. Sophie doesn't care. But mom apparently does. Geez......

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Official Reprieve</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520594</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:17:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520594</guid>
		<description>I got all puffy/fluffy again today, kept licking my lips and shaking my paws, and was really feeling ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got all puffy/fluffy again today, kept licking my lips and shaking my paws, and was really feeling crummy. And then I retreated to my sick kitty hideout under mom's bed. So mom called the vet (again) and I was given an official, vet-endorsed reprieve from Clavamox......FOREVER! Whether I am allergic to that nasty stuff or just really, really sensitive to it, the vet said I shouldn't have any more. Yippee! 

But I'm not quite off the hook. The vet said I still need antibiotics so we are going to try a round of amoxicillin. Boo!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sunday</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520341</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Oct 2008 20:08:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/520341</guid>
		<description>Hi friends,

Holy cat ~ I felt so crummy yesterday afternoon and last night. I think mom jinxed me ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends,

Holy cat ~ I felt so crummy yesterday afternoon and last night. I think mom jinxed me by writing in my diary that I was feeling good. I got sick a couple of times and I didn't want anyone to touch me. And I got really, really fluffy- all of my hair was standing straight up yesterday like I had the chills or something (mom's edit- it was really, really weird). So I did a lot of sleeping (next to the laptop and the laptop battery charger because they were so nice and warm). I even slept in my carrier for awhile which means I was really out of it. I HATE that thing!

Today I feel so much better! I was sooo hungry and then I was ready to play fetch with my mousies and my mom. And the best part of today? Mom gave Sophie a good brushing and I helped and then mom brushed me, too. Ooooh, I loved it! And then mom washed my favorite blanket and folded it up and put it on the couch. I'm kind of a random, infrequent kneader but I just couldn't resist. I kneaded that warm blanket until it was just right and then I curled up on it, meowed twice, and fell asleep. I love Sundays.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519871</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:45:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519871</guid>
		<description>I am feeling better today! I was really hungry this morning and now I am sooooo sleepy. Luckily, tod ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am feeling better today! I was really hungry this morning and now I am sooooo sleepy. Luckily, today is Saturday (hooray for Saturdays!) so I can snuggle with mom and Sophie all day!

Thanks to my buddy <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a> and his lovely sisters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a> for the beautiful sparkly diamond to match my beautiful sparkly whites! And thank you to my dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/456516">&#9829; Chloe &#9829;</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514">Annadee</a> for the POP charms and sweet messages! 

Also, I wanted to say something about <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a>, one of my best Catster friends. He is the sweetest kitty and has always been such a thoughtful friend. Doc has been living with CRF and he and his family have been working so hard to keep him healthy and happy. When I recently told him about my friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a> who has CRF, too,  Doc and his mom immediately offered all kinds of support and resources to my friend. So I just wanted to say thank you to Doc and his mom! I love you guys and I am purring and purring and purring for Doc!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Home</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519704</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:23:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519704</guid>
		<description>I'm home with sparkling white chompers! Thanks to Oliver and Dewey for the cool shades to protect mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm home with sparkling white chompers! Thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> for the cool shades to protect mom and Sophie's eyes from my sparkling white teeth! And thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764">Wally Forever Loved</a> for the sweet purrs and the POP. Wally and my angel sister Sally were definitely watching out for me today! 

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:

Lucy's home. I'd like to say that she is resting but she's actually still a little disoriented and out of it. She's been pacing and meowing, trying to find a comfy place to relax. 

The teeth cleaning went well! It was very quick and she did fine with the anesthesia. She had some gingivitis but didn't need any extractions or anything major. Because she is allergic to kitty toothpastes and to greenies, the vet recommended that I start applying a sealant to her teeth weekly to keep them healthy. We'll see how that goes : )

There were some concerns with her blood tests. The vet ended up doing a couple of blood tests and then decided to send one out to a lab for further analysis. Lucy's platelets were pretty low (but looked okay under the microscope)- the vet said not to worry about that at this time. 

Lucy's white blood cell count was abnormal again. That continues to be a concern. It looks like she is trying to fight off an infection but we can't figure out what she's fighting. The vet did say that some cats' white blood cell counts cycle (there was a fancy name for this but I don't remember it) and that might be what is going on (the blood test in September looked normal, July's was abnormal). It also might be that, as suspected at other times, Lucy may have some type of immune system disorder. The doctor said that with Lucy's severe allergies and other medical issues, this is very possible. And at this point, Lucy's doing well (no diarrhea, just minor skin issues) so the vet wasn't overly concerned. 

It's starting to feel normal to have abnormal test results. I think that she is a special kitty with some unique medical issues. It's just a matter of finding out what's normal for Lucy.

As a result of the abnormal platelets and white blood cell count, they gave her an antibiotic injection and we'll start a week of clavamox tomorrow. She has to go back in two weeks for another blood test. 

Overall, it was successful day. She's home and we are settling in for a weekend of staying home and cuddling. She's such a sweet kitty- I just want her to be healthy and happy.

On a side note, I talked to the vet about adopting another cat. The vet said that b/c Lucy can't be vaccinated due to allergies, a new kitty would need to be kept separate for 10-14 days. I told her that I planned to adopt from the humane society (where Lucy and Sophie came from) or the city animal control but I also told her that if the vet's office came across any kittens I might be interested (a month ago there were 6 Tonkinese kittens in there and they were so sweet!). She asked if I would be willing to bottle feed and I said that I would! Apparently they often have kittens that need to be bottle fed and fostered. So the vet said she would keep me in mind and call me. She looked pretty happy about it and I'm kind of excited, too!

Take care,
Lucy's mom Molly]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hey! Where'd my food go?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519487</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:24:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/519487</guid>
		<description>Tomorrow I'm going to the v-e-t to get my teeth cleaned. There's no doubt about it, my teeth really  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tomorrow I'm going to the v-e-t to get my teeth cleaned. There's no doubt about it, my teeth really do need to be cleaned. We found this out in August but I was too sick at the time so we had to wait. Now I'm feeling good so it's time to turn our attention to my chompers.

Two things are kind of worrying my mom. The only time I've been under anesthesia (that we know of) was when I was spayed and that occured before I was with mom so she's not sure how I'll react to the anesthesia. The other thing that worries mom is that I'm not vaccinated and I will be in the vet's office all day tomorrow. When I had my kitten vaccinations after mom adopted me, I had a life-threatening allergic reaction. I had to be hospitalized and I almost crossed to the bridge. It was pretty darn scary! So the v-e-t said no more vaccinations for me, ever.  Mom and the v-e-t discuss it every year and the v-e-t says it's just too risky for me to have any more vaccinations after the allergic reaction I had as a baby. Mom called the vet's office today to talk about her concerns and they assured her that I would not have any contact with any other kitties. They pretty much told mom to relax! MOL!

My main concern is, what's up with this no food after 8 pm rule? I think I may have quite a bit to say about this all night long! 

I should be home with sparkling clean teeth (and a hungry tummy) by 4 pm Arizona time!

love,
Lucy


P.S. My friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a> has been very sick and could use some extra purrs. He has CRF and some liver problems and was hospitalized earlier this week. He's home with his mom now and she learned how to give him sub q fluids.

Onyx's mom works with my mom and she is very, very sweet. When my sister Sally crossed to the bridge, she was a big support for my mom and still asks my mom how she, Sophie, and I are doing as we process our grief. We adore her and her sweet kitties and hope Onyx is feeling better soon!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sophie loving</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/518279</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:47:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/518279</guid>
		<description>I have mentioned before that I have a special relationship with my doggie sister Sophie. I LOVE her. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have mentioned before that I have a special relationship with my doggie sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a>. I LOVE her. If she moves at all, I come running to investigate what she is doing and where she is going. If she goes upstairs, I run after her. If she goes in the kitchen, I follow her closely doing what mom calls my "Sophie trot." Instead of walking or running, I kind of trot/bounce alongside her. When she is waiting at the door to go outside, I call out to mom and let her know. 

When Sophie lays down, I circle around her, bonking her with my head. I then pick a Sophie body part (usually paws or head/face/ears) and I start grooming and headbonking like crazy. I usually flop down on my back and groom her from an upside down position. I never use my paws; instead, I hold them straight up in the air and sometimes knead the air. And I purr and purr and purr. Sophie just lays there and lets me go nuts. She usually closes her eyes and leans into me (because she likes it!). This happens at least 5 times a day.

So my mom thinks it's so cute how sweet we are together. Here's the catch- whenever mom tries to videotape us or take photos, I immediately stop. I REFUSE to be photographed during these moments. These moments are special moments between sisters and I'm just not ready to share them with anyone else yet. Sorry mom!

love,
Lucy

Sending purrs of comfort and love for sweet angel <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/427259">Sydney Rose</a> and her family on the anniversary of her crossing to the bridge. Also sending purrs of comfort to my sweet friend and beloved angel <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/421905">Amelia</a> and her family ~ October 14th was the anniversary of her crossing to the bridge.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Getting a little crazy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/517664</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Oct 2008 14:00:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/517664</guid>
		<description>Today I've been crazy! I encouraged (mom edit- forced) mom out of bed this morning by meowing in her ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I've been crazy! I encouraged (mom edit- forced) mom out of bed this morning by meowing in her ear and licking her eyebrow. I ate my breakfast with gusto. Then I zoomed all over the house with wide eyes and flattened ears, chattering and meowing at mommy and Sophie. I warned them, loudly ~ "Watch out! I'm coming through! Beep beep!" *FYI- beep beep sounds a lot like MROOOOW to the untrained human ear*

I also lent a helping paw around the house today. I helped mom change the sheets by attacking the corners and refusing to budge from my favorite spot. I rounded up massive amounts of mousies so that when mom brings out the scary vacuum monster the mousies won't get eaten. Of course, once I had them rounded up, I meowed (mom's edit- cried) loudly until mom agreed to play fetch with me. Then I gave Sophie an ear fur bath. It's been a good day.

Saturdays are my favorite day of the week!

love,
Lucy

P.S. Happy birthday to my lovely friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Back to Normal!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/516607</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:57:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/516607</guid>
		<description>Life around my house is finally starting to feel back to normal. My head is healing and I haven't ha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Life around my house is finally starting to feel back to normal. My head is healing and I haven't had any itchies for almost two weeks! Mom and I are optimistic that my skin and tummy allergies are under control. Last weekend, I tolerated the new food without any skin or tummy issues. In fact (and this doesn't seem quite fair), I am feeling so well that mom has scheduled me to have my teeth cleaned on Oct. 24th. I finally feel better and she is sending me to the v-e-t for a day of v-e-t torture?!? 

Now that I am feeling so good and mom's back from her trip and the weather has turned to fall, we are settling into our regular routine. And mom and I have been focusing lots of attention on our sweet <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a>! Sophie's been getting lots of loving because she is 1.) SO VERY LOVEABLE! And  2.) getting older (almost 14!). That's pretty old for a 60 pound doggie! The v-e-t considers her geriatric! MOL! Mom and I know that every day we have with Sophie is a special day. She is losing her eyesight and having some stiffness but overall, she is remarkably healthy and vibrant! I have a special bond with her. Mom says it borders on a Sophie-obsession!

Also, as some of you may know, my sweet kitty sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310180">Sally</a> passed away suddenly on May 9th, 2008. It was unexpected and devastating for mom and our family and we've been processing our grief for the past few months. Recently, though, mom has been thinking about whether or not we are ready for a new family member.......

And she has decided that she going to start actively looking around the holidays! For a kitty brother for me! Of course, the last time mom adopted an animal, she had planned on getting a gray male kitty and she ended up with ME! So we'll see what happens as far as a boy or a girl......

I've always been the baby so I'm not sure how I will feel once it happens but it's kind of exciting that mom has decided it's time for a new baby! Mom will have about 2 weeks off of work at the end of December so that's probably when this will all happen! I'll keep you posted!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Joy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/514937</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 11:44:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/514937</guid>
		<description>Fall has finally reached the desert! Mom turned off the air conditioning and opened the windows! Hi  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Fall has finally reached the desert! Mom turned off the air conditioning and opened the windows! Hi birdies! 

JOY!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello tuna!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/514646</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:00:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/514646</guid>
		<description>I'm a picky eater. REALLY picky. With my food allergies, it makes it pretty tough for mom to figure  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm a picky eater. REALLY picky. With my food allergies, it makes it pretty tough for mom to figure out what to feed me. Even if she finds foods that I am (hopefully) not allergic to, I will most likely refuse to even try them!  Most things I don't even want to sniff- I immediately start burying new food. I don't want people food and I've never even had a kitty treat (of course sometimes, just to totally blow mom's mind, I'll eat some of Sophie's dog food. I'm complex like that).

So mom decided that today was the day. Time for a new food and a little more variety in my diet. I was pretty uninterested right from the start. She opened the can and I laid down on the floor and yawned. Whatever.

Then that tricky mom of mine got an idea. She picked me up and put some of the new food on my paw! MOL! Can you even believe it? I would be totally irritated with her but as it turns out, once I licked it off my paw (which I did immediately as I'm a professional self-groomer- my paws and body must ALWAYS be clean), I realized that I love the new food! I ran to my bowl and ate the rest of it, too. It was a funny texture but I didn't care! It tasted SO good! Mmmmmm!!!!!!

So I have a new favorite food. Tuna! I can't believe that I refused to try it at first and attempted to bury it! Have I actually gone nearly 7 years without even tasting tuna? Well, friends, I've tasted it now and I like it!

love,
Lucy

P.S. Paws crossed that my tummy likes the tuna, too!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello curtains!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/513984</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 8 Oct 2008 14:36:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/513984</guid>
		<description>As you may know, I am exceptionally skilled in inducing irrational worries in my mommy. And, I often ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ As you may know, I am exceptionally skilled in inducing irrational worries in my mommy. And, I often tend to benefit from these irrational worries! For example, in August my mom was so worried about my health, she actually cancelled an out of town trip but still took 3 vacation days from work and stayed home with ME! And recently, when she had to go out of town, I convinced her to schedule my cat sitter visits twice as frequently! Sweet!

Well, here's the latest ~ I recently started licking the bamboo blinds hanging in my favorite window. Why? Well, why not! They were an interesting texture and they hung at a perfect height for me to have an occasional (obsessive) lick. Well wouldn't you know it? Me licking the blinds worried my mom! MOL! So she took those blinds down and hung......curtains! Not just any curtains, but big, billowy curtains that swirl around me as I lay on my window seat! FUN! In addition, by taking down those silly blinds, the whole window is now constantly exposed AND I can hide out behind the curtains, in the window seat, all day long!  I can see birdies from all kinds of good, stealthy angles!

Mom took a couple of photos of me in my newly curtained window seat! I may look peaceful and sleepy but that was only because I was taking a break from stalking those sweet curtains! I have my mommy wrapped around my little paw!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thank you!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/513229</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Oct 2008 16:40:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/513229</guid>
		<description>Mommy, Sophie, and I are all rested now! Mommy took a couple of days off of work so that we could sl ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy, Sophie, and I are all rested now! Mommy took a couple of days off of work so that we could sleep, hang out together, sleep, play, cuddle, and sleep some more ~ she thought we all might need a little recovery time after her vacation! 

I would like to thank Catster HQ for making me a Daily Diary Pick yesterday! It is such a sweet honor and I really appreciate it! Thank you!

I love my new sparkly blue collars! Thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/40404">the  family of Jason Cash, Victor Gibbs and angels Buddy, Angel, McKenna, Ricki, and Mookie</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/610165">Sir Sonny Bono</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/465153">Pumpkin and family</a>!

My dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> sent me a lovely red rose ~ thank you! I LOVE all of your new photos! 

Thank you to my dear sweet friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a> and his lovely sisters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a> for the beautiful blue ribbon. Your comment about the Catster Gods made me and mommy laugh! I love you guys!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/333719">Captain Morgan</a> gave me a beautiful red rose ~ thank you! And thanks for the sweet piratey message! Arrrrgh!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/678552">Tyson and his sweet family</a> gave me a pawsome power of the paw charm ~ thank you! For all of you Packer fans out there, check out Tyson's main photo! He's the ultimate Cheesehead!

Thank you to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764">Wally Forever Loved</a> for the pop charm and for the snapshot of my special day! You and your family are so sweet and thoughtful! Thank you!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Home!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/512964</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Oct 2008 22:45:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/512964</guid>
		<description>Mommy came home today! And she brought Sophie with her! I missed them both so much. Of course, my ca ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy came home today! And she brought Sophie with her! I missed them both so much. Of course, my cat sitter was lots of fun ~ when she first came to visit me, she couldn't get the front door unlocked! That's good ~ our locks are secure ~ but holy cat, I was ready for some company! I meowed at her to hurry up and come give me loving! She FINALLY got the door open and I was so happy to have some company!

My head was doing much better the first two days after my shots but then it got all itchy again and now I have a big owie. It's okay though, because mom is home now and she can take care of me. Plus, I got that antibiotic shot so that should help keep me from getting an infection. And hopefully mom and the v-e-t can put their thinking caps on and figure out why my head is so itchy.

Thank you HQ for making me a Daily Diary Pick! Mom told me when she got home and we celebrated! Also, thank you to my sweet friends for the rosettes! My mom is a bit tired tonight ~ I don't know what that wedding and bridesmaid business is all about, but she sure looks like it's been a loooooooong weekend! So we'll write a better thank you tomorrow after mom, Sophie, and I all get some rest tonight. Have a good night!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Are you kidding me?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/511544</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 1 Oct 2008 16:22:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/511544</guid>
		<description>Unbelievable. I was having a normal day, watching the birdies from my favorite spot in the window se ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Unbelievable. I was having a normal day, watching the birdies from my favorite spot in the window seat. Next thing I know, my crazy mom was sticking me into that freaking carrier *hisses at carrier* and taking me in the car. That could mean only one thing ~ I was going to ...... THE V-E-T!

The v-e-t and the vet tech were really, really nice to me. I got kisses and compliments and all kinds of loving there. It almost made up for the horrors that I endured. I got two shots- an antibiotic shot and another steroid shot. I had to get them because I just can't stop scratching my head. It's so itchy! Darn these allergies.

I'm back home now, trying to clean the scent of the v-e-t office off of me and trying to avoid hovering mommy. Seriously, she's a bit out of control this week. Even the v-e-t told her to just go on her vacation and not worry about me because I will be fine! If mom would have just listened to me when I told her that, we could have avoided the whole v-e-t trip today. Seriously.

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:
When I woke up this morning and saw Lucy's head, it looked bad. She scratched the lesion/hive so badly that it was looking just awful. Of course, with this upcoming trip for the wedding, I just couldn't leave tomorrow without talking to the vet. So back to the vet we went. Hopefully the shots will help her and she will be fine. I have lots of confidence in my cat sitter but I am just such a worrier when it comes to my animals! And on top of it all, what in the heck is causing her to have these lesions on her head?! I just can't figure it out. Poor kitty.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hey mom, relax!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/511233</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:39:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/511233</guid>
		<description>Well friends, the time has come. Mom has started packing for her trip to her friend's wedding. She h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well friends, the time has come. Mom has started packing for her trip to her friend's wedding. She has assured me that I will be receiving lots of visits from my cat sitter friend and I have tried to reassure her that I will be fine. But.......

My mom is the biggest worrier in the world! She hates to leave us, even just for a couple of nights. On top of her regular worries about leaving me and Sophie behind, she keeps hovering over me and looking at my skin! That's right friends, hovering mommy is back! She is so worried because my head and face have been really itchy from my allergies and sometimes I scratch too hard. But geez! I'm FINE! Give it a rest, mommy! Does any other cat have a mommy that worries this much?

Hopefully hovering mommy will go on the trip to the wedding and normal mommy will return!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom and I teamed up against a terrible intruder (aka a fly).</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/510845</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:36:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/510845</guid>
		<description>Last night a fly got in the house. It turns out that my mommy REALLY doesn't like flies! We teamed u ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last night a fly got in the house. It turns out that my mommy REALLY doesn't like flies! We teamed up together to get rid of the fly. I stalked it and made crazy chattering noises and my mom followed me around as I followed the fly and pointed it out to her. Mom was making her own crazy noises (i.e., "eeek" and "yuck")! She kept missing the fly, though. She's not a very good hunter ~ she's too slow and too loud (not to mention she's a vegetarian ~ further evidence of her poor hunting skills! MOL!).

Sophie used to be a big help in the hunt for flies or bugs on the loose inside the house but now she doesn't seem to care. She watched me and mom last night, raising her eyebrows a couple of times at us, but she never joined in on the hunt. That's okay, I'm a good huntress and I really didn't need any help! Just ask the fly : )

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Al's right.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508845</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 07:35:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508845</guid>
		<description>My friend Al is right ~ I'm not a troublemaker, I'm just being a cat!

love,
Lucy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/766114">Al</a> is right ~ I'm not a troublemaker, I'm just being a cat!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who, me?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508762</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:52:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508762</guid>
		<description>Mom says I've been a trouble maker the last few days. Okay, so I keep sneaking into Sophie's crate a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom says I've been a trouble maker the last few days. Okay, so I keep sneaking into Sophie's crate and stretching out in there. Yeah, that bugs Sophie, but it's so cozy! 

Well, I guess I've also been trying to chew on the cellphone charger cord, the back of mom's head, and whatever else I can put in my mouth. It's not my fault that these things all look so tasty. 

Alright, I've also been obsessed with the bamboo window blinds in the living room ~ I can't stop licking them! But mom, did that really mean that you had to take them down?

I've also been a total chatterbox. Even more so than usual. I can't help it. I have to comment on everything I see. 

In addition, that cricket that I mangled in the kitchen? Yeah, he didn't belong in my house. I'm a hunter. I couldn't help myself. The truth is, I was protecting my family from that loud, obnoxious cricket. Alright, that wasn't the truth. The truth is ~ I just wanted to play with him. And taste him. But he was really fragile. It was not my fault. I left him as a present for mom but she didn't seem too excited by it. 

I really don't think there is any solid evidence that I am a trouble maker. 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Health Update</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508038</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Sep 2008 22:35:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/508038</guid>
		<description>Hi friends ~ Mom realized today that we wrote many diaries about how sick I was but have not mention ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends ~ Mom realized today that we wrote many diaries about how sick I was but have not mentioned how I am feeling lately (I think mom was afraid to jinx it)! Well, it's been 5 weeks and......

I am doing really well! I am eating lots of wet food and loving it! Also, I continue to have solid litterbox movements and they are occuring IN the litterbox.

I am still having some skin issues. I recently developed a lesion near my whiskers on my cheek. I rubbed all the hair off that area : ( 
My ringworm culture came back negative so it's not ringworm! It appears to be related to my allergies. 

It's almost like a contact reaction- it happens very quickly- my skin gets red and itchy and I scratch/rub/groom the area intensely for a few minutes (long enough to rub the hair off and leave a scratch/scab/raised red lesion). Then I leave it alone, it heals, and another one pops up elsewhere on my head/face. 

Mom and the vet are just having some difficulty figuring out exactly what my skin is reacting to. Mom is still working on the kitty litter hypothesis and she plans to try another one out this week. It's tough because she wants to give each change some time to see if it helps but it bothers her to see me continue to have problems. Patience, Mom, patience!

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tagged by Al!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507930</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Sep 2008 15:58:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507930</guid>
		<description>I've been tagged by friend Al aka Alamo Schmo . He is a beautiful brown Tonkinese kitty from the Uni ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been tagged by friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/766114">Al aka Alamo Schmo </a>. He is a beautiful brown Tonkinese kitty from the United Kingdom. I love having international friends, especially ones that like mousies and fetch as much as I do!

Here are the rules of the game! Each player starts with seven random facts about themselves. Cats who are tagged post in their Diary the rules & their 7 pawsome facts and then choose 7 cats to tag . Don’t forget to purr them a pmail that they have been tagged and to read your Diary or send them a fun Rosette announcing they've been Tagged!

1. I was adopted from the Humane Society by my mom and my name at that time was *whispers* Rachel.
2. I relate most to the back of my mom's head and her hair. I like to nuzzle and headbonk the back of her head! I am a bit of a biter. When I am really relaxed or excited, I gnaw on objects, other animals (Sophie), and people (mom, the back of mom's head). I get in trouble for it.
3. I have white paws but one of my paws looks like it's been dipped in chocolate! Mom gives that paw extra kisses. Also, my paw pads are polka dotted! Some are pink and some are black!
4. I've never had a kitty treat. I refuse to even try them when mom used to offer them to me. Mom says that is probably good that I didn't ever want treats as I might have gotten sick from them due to my allergies.
6. I miss my kitty sister Sally. I still look for her and sometimes I walk up to a big framed photo of her and meow and rub my head against it. 
7. I'm not a lap cat! I like to cuddle NEXT to mom but I never sit in her lap.

I am tagging the following fantastic kitties:

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> ~ Check out the picture on his page where he is yelling out the window! Mom and I laugh everytime we see it! So cute!

My cousin <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Max</a>~ one of these days, I know he will play tag!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/872327">Princess</a> ~ she speaks in the royal we because she is very fancy (and adorable)!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/795446">Moon</a> who is in the process of adjusting to a new doggie sister!

Beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/788314">Alexis Tippy Bautista Olawoye</a> ~ she has transformed her mommy into a kitty person!

My new friend and protector against all things chipmunk <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/879667">Madison</a>

Hockey player and fellow chatterbox <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/859904">Shai Ming</a> 

Hope you kitties want to play!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507699</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Sep 2008 22:48:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507699</guid>
		<description>Catster ~ thanks for picking me as a daily diary pick! I had a very fun day, even with the disappoin ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Catster ~ thanks for picking me as a daily diary pick! I had a very fun day, even with the disappointment of my mommy finally finding the lollipop stick (I kinda liked the idea of mom always wondering what happened to that silly stick!).

Thanks to my sweet friends for your messages and gifts!

Thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/40404">the  family of Jason Cash, Victor Gibbs and angels Buddy, Angel, McKenna, Ricki, and Mookie</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/814375">The Pawsee and family</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804216">Miracle and family</a> for the collars and sweet messages!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/646199">Jules</a>, thank you for the heart ~ your message made me and mom laugh! Thank you <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/679175
">Teddy Bearz</a> for the rose and the diary picture! For the red rose, thanks to the family of  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/184900">Samoa, Violet, Calvin, Gleek, Spunky, Sugar, and Newman</a>. They have a new little guy in their family named <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/883236">Newman</a> ~ he is ADORABLE! Thank you to my pawsome friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/67694">Hunter</a> for the pirate flag!

My buddy <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a> and his lovely sisters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a> sent me a mousie to play with instead of lollipop sticks ~ Thanks, I LOVE him (and you!)!

Thank you to my dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> for the beautiful rainbow star ~ I love you boys! 



love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The lollipop mystery has been solved (darn it!)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507438</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:32:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507438</guid>
		<description>Well friends, the mystery of the missing lollipop stick has been solved!

My handsome and brillian ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well friends, the mystery of the missing lollipop stick has been solved!

My handsome and brilliant Tonkinese friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/766114">Al aka Alamo Schmo </a> suggested that perhaps I had carried the stick off and hid it in a little nook (where I've hidden many of my mousie friends).

Mom thought that was a pretty good possibility so she did some detective mommy work. Guess where she found it? In her bed, buried underneath a pillow! Ha, she finds mousies there all the time. I drop them on her head while she's sleeping in an attempt to get a game of fetch going in the middle of the night! I tried to wake her up with the lollipop stick!

I'll have to come up with a better spot next time. Sadly, mom says it's likely I will never see a lollipop stick again.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The lollipop saga continues......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507369</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:27:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507369</guid>
		<description>MOL! My mom is really embarrassed about the lollipop saga. 

She's irritated with herself that she ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ MOL! My mom is really embarrassed about the lollipop saga. 

She's irritated with herself that she left the lollipop stick on the coffee table and forgot about it. She's perplexed with the current location of the lollipop stick (i.e., where in the world IS it?). 

She's annoyed with herself that she's so WORRIED that one of us actually ATE the stick (MOL! I'm a smart girl, I wouldn't eat a stick! Now Sophie, she's smart, too. But she is a DOG. If anyone ate the lollipop stick, it was Sophie). Mom's even wondering why in the world she brought the lollipop home and ate it. She doesn't even really like lollipops.

Maybe the biggest question is, why is mom even thinking this much about a stupid lollipop stick?

And the best part of the lollipop saga?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

I got picked as a Daily Diary Pick! Now even more kitties are going to read about the lollipop ordeal. MOL! I can't stop laughing about it! Mom is so embarrassed. Thanks Catster! 

love,
Lucy

P.S. Still no sighting of the lollipop stick......]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Uh-oh</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507137</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 19 Sep 2008 11:04:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/507137</guid>
		<description>Just to completely freak my mom out:

Last night my mom ate a lollipop. It was random ~ she got it ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Just to completely freak my mom out:

Last night my mom ate a lollipop. It was random ~ she got it at a conference she was at yesterday and she ate it last night. I found the stick kind of interesting. But mom put the wrapper and the stick on the coffee table, away from me, and I lost interest. Well, mom FORGOT about it last night and left it on the coffee table.

When she got up this morning, she immediately saw the wrapper on the floor, but no lollipop stick. Hmm, she thought, it MUST be around here somewhere. She looked and looked for it but couldn't find it anywhere. She started to get pretty stressed out about it wondering if somehow Sophie or I managed to eat the stick.

Ha! She still can't find it and she's completely freaked out about it!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My new toys!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/506993</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:40:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/506993</guid>
		<description>Oops, I forgot to mention ~ I LOVE my new cube tent and my light up ball in the track toy! I play an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oops, I forgot to mention ~ I LOVE my new cube tent and my light up ball in the track toy! I play and play and play! I stalk that ball from inside my tent and then pounce on it. I flop right on top of it and rub all around on it! I LOVE that toy!

And when I get kind of tired from all of the playing, I lie down alongside it and every once in awhile, I reach out and smack the ball with my paw. Fun!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dogs are easily confused. Cats are not.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/506992</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:25:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/506992</guid>
		<description>I've decided that I like Sophie's doggie den. I've always shared it with Sophie during thunderstorms ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've decided that I like Sophie's doggie den. I've always shared it with Sophie during thunderstorms (see my new 'Together' video). Most every day, all day, Sophie is in there. She sleeps in there, she watches the world from in there, she LOVES it in there! It's her spot.

The other day, when Sophie was hanging out next to mom, I sauntered into her den and made myself at home! Sophie kept walking over and then pacing back and forth, looking from me to mom and then back to me. She didn't know what to do!

Well, I am her little sister so I had to give her a hard time. I stayed in there for more than an hour. She ended up falling asleep next to mom. When I decided I was ready to give Sophie her spot back, I slowly walked out, stretched, yawned, and then stretched again. Then I just walked away : )

Sophie, being a dog and all, didn't really know what to think about the whole thing. Ha! She still loves me, though. I'm sure of it.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Movie Star!!!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/505586</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Sep 2008 21:32:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/505586</guid>
		<description>My mom is busy helping me upload some new videos to my page and I am excited! One video is of me pla ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom is busy helping me upload some new videos to my page and I am excited! One video is of me playing with my cube tent and my ball in the track toy. That is my favorite game (and one of these days I am going to get that ball)!

The other video is not very exciting but my mommy thinks it's sooooo cute. It's of me and my doggie sister Sophie cuddling together as we hide from a thunderstorm. That is the best place to go when there are big booms! It feels so cozy and safe snuggled up next to Sophie.

I hope you like my new videos!

love,
Lucy

Update:
Mom is ATTEMPTING to add new videos to my page but is having some technical difficulties : (

Stay tuned!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>From Nurse Lucy ~ Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/504178</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:05:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/504178</guid>
		<description>Update on my doggie sister  Sophie: 

Sophie has two nurses now, Nurse Mommy and me. Mommy removed ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update on my doggie sister  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a>: 

Sophie has two nurses now, Nurse Mommy and me. Mommy removed Sophie's bandages today and I, Nurse Lucy, helped. I gave Sophie many headbonks and a little grooming to make her feel better. Her paw still has a big owie on it and is really sore. She really wants to lick it but mom says that she can't. I tried to play with her (I was a little obsessed with her ears today!) but she didn't feel like playing. Then, wouldn't you know it? We had a big thunderstorm which Sophie REALLY doesn't like, so I tried to make her feel comfortable by curling up next to her for the last few hours.  Mom also gave Sophie her pain medicine and we hope she will get some good sleep tonight. 

Nurse Mommy and I are both going to sleep downstairs so that Sophie doesn't hurt her paw by trying to go upstairs. She's getting round-the-clock care because we love her!

Oooh, thank you HQ for honoring me as a Daily Diary Pick! It was such a fun day and I even made new friends! Thank you to my friends for your sweet notes and rosettes! Thank you to  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/819881">Stoney</a> for your thoughtful pmail ~ I am still purring for you to feel better, sweet kitty!

Thank you to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/610165">Sir Sonny Bono</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/40404">the sweet family of Jason Cash, Victor Gibbs and angels Buddy, Angel, McKenna, Ricki, and Mookie</a> and to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/814375">The Pawsee and family</a> for thinking of me and for the pretty blue collars ~ they match my eyes!

I love my heart rosettes! Thank you <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/29133">Sissel, Smudge, angel Smokey, Wesley, angel Dekker, and Sunny</a>! Thank you <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/418058
">Alfie</a> for the heart and the snapshot of the diary page!

Thank you to beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/491863">Claire</a> and my dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> for the yummy shrimp treats! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/420507">Rico</a>, thank you friend for the ball! Rico's mom and my mom think we kind of look alike, especially our baby photos!

Thank you to my very, very dear friend  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514">Annadee</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82490">Hershey</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82670">Rafiki</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/355336">Benjamin</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/777900">Zachary</a> for the pretty blue ribbon ~ it matches my eyes, too! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/869875">Kaley</a> gave me a pretty red ribbon ~ thank you friend! 


love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sophie got chomped on!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/503219</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 8 Sep 2008 13:04:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/503219</guid>
		<description>Something icky chomped on my doggie sister  Sophie! She was on her morning walk with mom when mom no ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Something icky chomped on my doggie sister  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/310193">Sophie</a>! She was on her morning walk with mom when mom noticed that her back paw was bleeding. Poor Sophie ~ that immediately resulted in a phone call to the v-e-t and then a trip to the v-e-t. When she got back home, her whole paw and leg were wrapped up so she can't lick it! I gave her a gentle headbonk like any good kitty sister would!

The v-e-t said she either cut it on something or, more likely, got bit by something nasty. Poor, poor Sophie! Now she has to take 6 antibiotic pills every day for 10 days! And on top of it all, now Sophie has to deal with hovering mommy! Sophie will be fine, though. She's almost 14 years old and she is one tough doggie so we know she will be just fine. I did tell mom that if I find whatever bit my Sophie, it's in big trouble! 

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>cannot. resist.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502496</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 6 Sep 2008 12:43:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502496</guid>
		<description>Mommy got this beautiful box delivered to our door. It was lovely- long and narrow and perfect for h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy got this beautiful box delivered to our door. It was lovely- long and narrow and perfect for hiding in and then pouncing out of. The box came with a bonus~ a fancy black  dress covered in an AWESOME plastic bag! Mom called it a bridesmaid's dress, whatever that means.

Mommy set the dress and bag down on the table and I almost got there before she realized her mistake. But then she whisked it away, just out of my reach : (

Something even more exciting happened next! Mom was wearing the dress and I started stalking her toes. I couldn't quite be sure if it was her toes in there or some mousies ~ the dress was just too long for me to get a solid look. So I tried to investigate further, pouncing on the dress in the hopes that I would catch those elusive dress toes/mousies/whatever they were.

But I kinda got in trouble. Mom shooed me out of the room and shut the door! When she finally let me back in, the dress was nowhere to be seen! I never did find out what was going on with that dress. But mommy said she is taking the dress today to get altered. I hope altered is a fancy word for looking for mousies. Just in case. 

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Good News!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502247</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 5 Sep 2008 18:23:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502247</guid>
		<description>Good news! The vet just called and my blood work came back completely normal! My white blood cells a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Good news! The vet just called and my blood work came back completely normal! My white blood cells and protein levels are back in the normal range! So, the two main reasons for the trip to the vet today turned out to be great news ~ blood tests were normal and I GAINED weight! Still working on the skin issue but mom and I will get that figured out. 

Thanks to my friends for thinking of me today!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>*hisses at the cat carrier*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502119</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 5 Sep 2008 11:13:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/502119</guid>
		<description>Well, I put up a good fight but mommy got me in the carrier and whisked me away to see the v-e-t tod ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, I put up a good fight but mommy got me in the carrier and whisked me away to see the v-e-t today. Before we left, my itchy looked much better compared to last night. But then, when we got to the vet and I emerged from the carrier, I had big red itchies ALL over my head! Can you believe it? Mom was next to me the whole time- I never scratched my head but I did push it against the carrier (which is a soft carrier). Somehow I managed to hurt my head in there!

The vet's nurse said that part of the reason they want to recheck my blood levels is because the abnormalities in my white blood cells and protein levels could indicate something going on that causes me to bruise and hurt myself too easily. That would make sense based on what happened in the carrier today and the sudden appearance of the lesion last night. Maybe it was actually a kitty bruise?  The vet said she would call mom back today with the results of the blood tests.

I am going to start taking an oral anti-fungal medication today, too. I have severe allergies to 5 different fungi and am very susceptible to ringworm, so hopefully the anti-fungal will help me with my itchy skin. Plus, the doctor told my mom to call the Natural Balance food company and ask them if they make the food I am eating by itself or if they make other foods in the same machines. The itchies could be cross-contamination of food.

But friends, do not despair! Overall, it was a good visit! The best news? I gained 5 ounces since my visit a month ago! I really DO like my new food and I am filling out! Mom was so happy! It means that she can stop worrying (sure!) about whether or not I am eating the 'recommended' amount of food. 

On another note, there were the cutest kitties at the vet's office today! There was a pretty white persian kitten there with her daddy. She didn't make a peep, she just sat and stared at me with big eyes. Probably because I was making more than a few peeps!

And then two women came out of a room with a laundry basket full of kittens! Mom almost had a meltdown ~ they looked like my angel sister Sally! The vet said they were 12 week old Tonkinese kittens. You should have seen my mom gushing over them. I got a little worried that one might be coming home with us but mom said no new kitty siblings yet. I wonder what she meant by yet? 

There was also a man who came in to the office and handed the receptionist a bucket of kitty litter, kitty treats, and kitty food. He looked very sad and it turns out that his beautiful cat went to the rainbow bridge this morning because of cancer. And through his grief, her daddy was still thinking about other kitties in need and donated kitty supplies. Purring for the man and his family and for their new little angel.

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Detective mommy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/501968</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 4 Sep 2008 23:29:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/501968</guid>
		<description>I've had a little setback today. Well, it started last weekend. I got another itchy lesion on my lef ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've had a little setback today. Well, it started last weekend. I got another itchy lesion on my left ear. Mom put medicine on it and, with the exception of me scratching it one more time, I left it alone and it's healing. 

Mom (aka Detective Mommy) was on the case, trying to identify the environmental culprit. She was pretty sure I was having an allergic reaction to scented candles she had lit the night before the itchy arrived. Her next hypothesis was that maybe I'm allergic to my kitty litter and that's been causing my skin problems.

So, no more candles and a transition to a dye and perfume free kitty litter. Detective mommy was feeling pretty pleased with her detective skills and my skin was looking good. And then......

Tonight, out of nowhere, I got a big, red, raised itchy above my right eye. It's a big itchy, too, covering most of the area between my eye and my ear. Detective mommy (who briefly resembled hovering mommy tonight- yuck!) conducted multiple investigations of the itchy and she's kind of concerned about it. And I agree, this itchy is super itchy and it appeared so quickly! Out of nowhere!

Detective mommy can't pinpoint the antecedant to this itchy. It almost looks like a contact reaction- like I rubbed my head on something and *BOOM* a big reaction. 

I have an appointment with my v-e-t tomorrow for a blood test and a weight check. Mom says we will see what the vet says about my skin. Detective mommy says it might take us some time to figure out what kinds of things in our house are making me itchy but she's on the case. Maybe my immune system is a little off after all of my tummy troubles? Well, the good news is that I continue to have solid poops and my tummy doesn't hurt! Plus, I REALLY love my new food! I woke mom up at 5 am this morning to remind her how much I love my new food!

Paws crossed for my vet visit tomorrow and for mommy's detective skills!

love, 
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/501578</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 3 Sep 2008 21:56:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/501578</guid>
		<description>I was a Daily Diary Pick today! I had lots of fun, made some new friends, and received sweet message ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was a Daily Diary Pick today! I had lots of fun, made some new friends, and received sweet messages and rosettes from friends! I also got to eat more of that yummy food that made me purr......mmmm, I sure do like it! 

Thank you to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/40404">the family of Jason Cash, Victor Gibbs and angels Buddy, Angel, McKenna, Ricki, and Mookie</a> and to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/814375">The Pawsee and family</a> for the lovely, sweet smelling collars and your sweet messages!

Thanks to my adorable kitty friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804216">Miracle</a> for the pretty red heart ~ it was fun to share the DDP honor with you! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/421905">Beloved Angel Amelia</a>, my friend and angel sister to cute kitties 
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/655366">Francis and Matthew</a>, gave me a yummy slice of watermelon ~ thank you!

And dear <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/418058">Alfie (aka Sir Alfie Kneads-A-Lot ~ how cute is that nickname?!)</a>, thank you so very much for the yummy grape drink and the picture of the DDPs! That was so sweet!

Thank you to my very, very dear friend  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514">Annadee</a> and her adorable siblings <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82490">Hershey</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82670">Rafiki</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/355336">Benjamin</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/777900">Zachary</a> for the yummy shrimp treat!

And thank you so very much to my wonderful friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a> for the shiny trophy ~ I've never gotten a trophy before (it looks like a good place to hide some of my mousies)! I love you guys! Thank you!

I love my Catster friends!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A new reason to purr......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/500595</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 1 Sep 2008 01:27:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/500595</guid>
		<description>Hi friends!

Tonight, when mom fed me, something funny happened! She gave me my new yummy wet food ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends!

Tonight, when mom fed me, something funny happened! She gave me my new yummy wet food and was then preparing Sophie's food, cleaning up the kitchen, and unloading the dishwasher. She heard a funny noise, quick bursts of a sort of grumbling sound. She didn't know what it was- she stood very still in the middle of the kitchen to try to find the source. She thought maybe it was the dishwasher or the refrigerator making a funny noise. And then she realized it was......ME!

I was PURRING while I ate my food! I have never done that before ~ I don't really purr all that often. But I was so happy to be eating my yummy food that my purr motor started going like crazy! Mom sat down in a kitchen chair and just watched me eat with a smile on her face. I guess it made her happy to see me get so happy about eating! Moms are funny like that.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>BOOM!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/499892</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 Aug 2008 20:52:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/499892</guid>
		<description>What is up with these big booms and lightening flashes? Last night AND tonight? There is only so muc ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What is up with these big booms and lightening flashes? Last night AND tonight? There is only so much a little kitty (and her big doggie sister) can take. Monsoon season- yuck!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sorry Sophie!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/499512</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:01:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/499512</guid>
		<description>My sister Sophie wants to eat my new food. She watches me very closely with her big puppy dog eyes w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My sister Sophie wants to eat my new food. She watches me very closely with her big puppy dog eyes whenever mom gives me food. I wouldn't mind sharing with her but mom says she's not allowed to eat it (and she can't reach it, either)! Poor Sophie.

The truth is, I kind of like her dog food, too. My angel sister Sally taught me that Sophie's food makes a great toy! It's fun to bat around the kitchen. Sometimes I even try to eat it! But mom says I can't. Mom says it has stuff in it that I am allergic to and so she won't even let me play with it anymore : (

On a brighter note, mom has been making lots of trips to the store to get me my new foods. And she can't help herself- she buys me fun toys every time she goes! The mousie population is on the rise in our house ~ Sweet!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Life is good : )</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498987</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:18:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498987</guid>
		<description>I went on a serious mousie hunt today. I collected all kinds of my mousies ~ the brand new ones and  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went on a serious mousie hunt today. I collected all kinds of my mousies ~ the brand new ones and my old favorites. I even found my special green tail-less mousie. He's pretty worn down and on his last leg but I sure do love to smack him around and chase after him! Sometimes I carry him to the top of the stairs and then smack at him until he tumbles down and I can chase after him. I always get him, too. 

Ahhh, life is good : )

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title></title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498444</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:04:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498444</guid>
		<description>Mommy brought home a new bag of mousies and a big, fancy purple feather wand. Woo-hoo! Now that I fe ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy brought home a new bag of mousies and a big, fancy purple feather wand. Woo-hoo! Now that I feel so much better, I am ready to play (and play and play)! Last night I cuddled up close to mommy's head on her pillow and purred and purred. When she woke up this morning, she found all kinds of fun toys on her pillow, waiting to be played with. I take good care of my mom!

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom:

The allergy test was the best thing I've ever done for her ~ for any kitties out there who are having recurring tummy or skin problems, it's so worth it to have the blood test so that you know exactly what is making them sick. To think that a couple of weeks ago the vet was considering a stomach biopsy......

It's amazing to see how much better my little Lucy is doing a week after the allergy test results came in. She has so much energy and is just so playful ~ after nearly two months of her being sick, I kind of forgot what a little ball of energy she is!

Her tummy is still adjusting to the new food but she has not had any diarrhea since Thursday last week. I'm kind of hesitant to say that she's all better ~ after another week or two, if all goes well, then I think I will be ready to jump for joy and celebrate!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm it!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498119</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:45:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/498119</guid>
		<description>I have, without a doubt, been tagged! I have been tagged on two separate games ~ I'm going to answer ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have, without a doubt, been tagged! I have been tagged on two separate games ~ I'm going to answer them both here.

I have been tagged to play the Olympics tag by my good friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804216">Miracle</a> (who actually made up the game!), handsome <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804810">Ciao-Li</a>, and adorable <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804810">Borscht</a>!

What is your favorite olympic sport? I like swimming, soccer, and gymnastics.

Do you prefer summer or winter? I live in the hot, hot desert in Phoenix so without a doubt, I prefer winter! Actually, I'm an indoor only kitty so I don't really care but mommy prefers winter!

What is the quirkiest thing you do?
I play fetch and I am a grooming machine. I am especially adept at grooming long haired shaggy doggies named Sophie. 

Do you have a crush on any other kitty out there and if so, who? 
I have some of the most wonderful friends on Catster! I love them all!

What's your favorite rosie or zealie and why?
Oooh, I like all of them ~ my favorite part is the message that comes with! If I had to chose my very favorite, it would be the forever rosies! Stars and diamonds!

I have also been tagged by my sweet friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/713847">PeekABoo (aka Peekers!)</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/768127">Sam</a>!

Here are 5 things that I don't like:

1. The v-e-t. Even though she says nice things about me, I always feel so violated.

2. Car rides. Car rides should be outlawed. Mommy should be arrested next time she puts me in the carrier (also should be illegal) and takes me in the car. Of course, she should be let out of jail immediately so that she can hang out with me.

3. Thunder, lightening, fireworks. Yuck. And scary. Scary yuck.

4. I don't like when my tummy hurts. I hide under mom's bed until it stops hurting.

5. When my mousies or glitter balls roll under closed doors or furniture I can't reach them. Even though I am the one who rolls them under there, it's mommy's fault and I meow at her until she rescues them.

Okay, I am going to tag 5 kitties. If you want to play, you can do either of the tags or both ~ your choice!

My handsome siamese friend and fellow fetch player <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/816941">Kismet</a>
My sweet cousin <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Max</a>. He's one cool cat.
Sweet, thoughtful and beautiful <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/639482">Charity Valentine Fajer</a>
My beautiful British friend and huntress <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/766120">Willow aka Wilomena Catbeast</a>
My new friend and fellow dog lover <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/859916">Bailey</a>.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Lucy Manual, food trials, and treasure hunting</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/496618</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:04:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/496618</guid>
		<description>For the past 5 weeks, my normal mommy has been replaced by &quot;nurse mommy&quot; (aka &quot;hovering mommy&quot;). Wel ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ For the past 5 weeks, my normal mommy has been replaced by "nurse mommy" (aka "hovering mommy"). Well, I have good news! Good bye to hovering nurse mommy and welcome home to normal mommy!

My tummy is doing so much better! I haven't taken my anti-diarrhea medicine for a couple of days and so far, so good! Hovering mommy had been a bit too preoccupied with my litterbox activities; normal mommy, however, is a lot less annoying. I even left her a buried treasure IN the litterbox! That makes mommy so happy!

Speaking of burying, I keep trying to bury most of the new food mom tries to give me. That's my way of saying "no thanks" and "this belongs in the litterbox."

I do have a new food that I LOVE! It's called ZiwiPeak and it is imported all the way from New Zealand! It is made from raw meat that is air-dried and does not contain any added colors, salt, sugar, chemicals, artificial preservatives fillers or grains. It's in the "Lucy Manual" ~ that's what mom calls the book she got from the allergy doctors! Mommy said it would have been helpful if I had come WITH the Lucy Manual but we both agreed better late than never.

Overall, I am doing so much better! I haven't hid under the bed for the last two days and have been sleeping on top of the bed with mom! This morning when she woke up I was lying by her head, watching birdies out the window and chattering at them. Today there were workmen hard at work fixing the roof and I laid in the window seat all day watching them, with my tail twitching! It was a good day!

love,
Lucy

Update:

I have been thinking about how much better I feel. It's really amazing and it has happened so quickly. My mommy is a lot less stressed now that she knows exactly what was making me sick. Mom's stress probably added to my own feelings of ickiness. So, I've decided that even though they didn't test for it, I am probably allergic to mommy stress! MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>And the best news!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/495921</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:20:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/495921</guid>
		<description>Oh, mom forgot to share the VERY BEST NEWS from my allergy test results!

I am not allergic to my  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh, mom forgot to share the VERY BEST NEWS from my allergy test results!

I am not allergic to my doggie sister Sophie and I am not allergic to my mom's hair! MOL! They actually tested for both of those things and, thank cat, I can continue to hang out with and groom both Sophie and my mommy!

What a relief!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>And the results are in!!!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/495849</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:18:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/495849</guid>
		<description>Update from Lucy's mom:

The allergy test results are in. It was the best $ I have ever spent. As  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update from Lucy's mom:

The allergy test results are in. It was the best $ I have ever spent. As suspected, Lucy has numerous severe allergies to foods and environmental contaminents. She tested positive for 26 severe allergies and 5 borderline allergies.

Food allergies- Corn, barley, eggs, alfalfa, flax, peanuts, flaxseed meal, tomato pomace

Other allergies- 6 of 8 types of grass, 6 of 11 weeds including sage, 6 of 12 trees, 5 of 16 fungi, tobacco smoke, pyrethrum

I feel such relief to have this information. It doesn't change the fact that she is still sick but I feel like I am now on a path to get her healthy. She may not have IBD! It may have been all related to food allergies! The one thing still pointing to IBD is that the food she is on right now, the Royal Canin Hypoallergenic 23, does not contain food she is allergic to yet she still has diarrhea. She has been on it for about a month now. It is a dry prescription food with tons of stuff in it. Even if the tests say she is not allergic to it, I don't want to give it to her anymore. I think it is making her sick. 

The allergy results came with a huge list of foods (and treats!) that Lucy CAN eat. Most of it is wet food. I have been learning so much about food and nutrition recently (thanks everyone!) but I am still not sure what to feed her. Some of the foods on the list HAVE made her sick. I am going to peruse through the food and nutrition forum and the raw food forum to see what others are eating. I might post in there for help, too. It looks to be a night of research! 

Thanks to all the kitties and their parents who have been so supportive of Lucy and I during this ordeal. While it isn't over yet, I feel like we are FINALLY headed in the right direction. As a kitty mom, it's so awful to have my Lucy so sick. I've felt really powerless at times- afraid to change her food AND afraid to keep her on the same food. I finally feel like I can help her to feel healthy! 

Take care,
Molly]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>mew. mew. MEOW!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/494893</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 Aug 2008 23:41:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/494893</guid>
		<description>I am a chatterbox. I like to talk, comment, and ask important and meaningful questions throughout th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am a chatterbox. I like to talk, comment, and ask important and meaningful questions throughout the day (and night if necessary). Since I've been sick, I've been very, very quiet. Quiet as a mousie, in fact. And that's just not the kind of kitty I am.

Well, this kitty was no quiet little mousie tonight! Although I had a rough time last night and spent most of today hiding under mommy's bed, tonight I'm feeling GOOD!

When I emerged from under the bed, I gave myself a little bath in the window seat. Then I brought my mommy my favorite glitterball. Mommy and I played a nice long game of fetch. It was FUN! I ran up and down the stairs and back and forth down the hall and into the kitchen. Zoooooom! 

And in the midst of our game, I found my mew. I told mommy "Mew. Mew." And then I found my meow! I brought mommy my glitterball, dropped it next to her, looked up at her, and roared "MEOOOOW!"

It was quite the meow. I am positive that mommy thought there was a lion in the house! I think she likes lions. She gave me a kiss.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Catster friends, cube toys, and extra mommy time!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/494559</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 Aug 2008 03:44:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/494559</guid>
		<description>I love my Catster friends! Thank you for sending me such sweet purrs and thoughtful messages. Someti ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I love my Catster friends! Thank you for sending me such sweet purrs and thoughtful messages. Sometimes when my tummy is hurting and I am hiding under mom's bed, mommy tells me about the lovely messages and rosettes (and diamonds!) from my friends and I feel better. My dear friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514">Annadee</a> even wrote her very first diary entry about me! Thank you, friends!

I'm still not feeling great but I am eating and drinking lots of water and my head does not itch anymore (no more lesions!). I do have some fur growing to do but I'm sure once I feel better and start eating the right kind of food for me and my sensitive tummy, the fur will come back. I just know it will and mommy says so, too. 

I did have an exciting litterbox moment a couple of days ago. Well, it wasn't all that exciting for me but my mommy was pretty impressed ~ she did some bizarre happy dance in celebration. Sadly, it was a one time thing this week as my next litterbox moment did not actually involve the litterbox : (

I do have good news! The vet said my allergy test results might be in sooner than two weeks ~ that would be super! Also, my mommy brought me home something special ~ my very own cube toy to play in AND I LOVE IT! Oooh, it's fun to smack my mousies around while I lounge in my new cube and it's the perfect place to hide and plan sneak attacks on my sister Sophie. MOL!

And the very best news is that my mommy is staying home with me this weekend. She even took a couple of days off of work to spend with me and Sophie so we have a long weekend together! Her friend understood and has been very supportive of mom's decision not to go, especially because of how recently we lost our beautiful Sally.

Mom did send a special gift to her friend and will plan a weekend trip once I am feeling better. Of course, mommy says that I must feel better by the time the wedding comes because she HAS to go. Something about her duty as a bridesmaid. She promises she will have a very nice kitty sitter to take care of me but it's still a month and a half away so I plan to feel MUCH better by then! Geez, I wish my mommy would just relax!

So again, thank you to all of my fantastic Catster friends. You sure know how to make a sick kitty feel better!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Giving Nurse Mommy a Hard Time</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/493342</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 11 Aug 2008 19:09:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/493342</guid>
		<description>*whispers* I'm hiding under the bed. My mommy gave me a new medicine today and I don't like it. They ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ *whispers* I'm hiding under the bed. My mommy gave me a new medicine today and I don't like it. They tried to make it taste like fish but they certainly didn't fool me! 

Medicine four times a day? MOL! And the new medicine came with a new little syringe dispenser. It surprised mommy and me with how fast it came out of the dispenser ~ I immediately spit it out and got it all over mommy's face. Then I turned and ran, FAST.

Mommy followed me (with fishy medicine dripping from her face ~ Ha!). I refused to look at her but I did allow her to wipe the fishy medicine from my chin. It was the least she could do after subjecting me to such yuckiness. Then I quickly headed for my hiding spot under the bed. Mommy left me alone for a little while which was a good idea. I wasn't ready to forgive her just yet. 

But I love my mom and she is pretty smart (and persistent). Mom knows how to make peace with me. She armed herself with a feather wand, my favorite glitter ball, and two of my most mischievous mousies. 

I decided to forgive her as soon as she started playing with me. I played for a minute or two from under the bed and then I laid my head on mommy's hand, closed my eyes, and took a little cat nap. Mommy didn't move the whole time, she just laid on the floor next to the bed with her arm and hand under the bed and let me sleep on her hand.

I liked that.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Paw kisses</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492881</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:05:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492881</guid>
		<description>I was sleeping peacefully all curled up in my kitty bed on the window seat. Dreaming kitty dreams of ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was sleeping peacefully all curled up in my kitty bed on the window seat. Dreaming kitty dreams of mousies, butterflies, and cat nip. Apparently my mom couldn't resist ~ when she walked by she had to stop and kiss my special spotted paw. Awww, mom, I know my paws are extra cute but I'm sleeping!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>We want off of this roller coaster</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492501</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 9 Aug 2008 13:33:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492501</guid>
		<description>From Lucy's Mom:

Well, the last three weeks have been a roller coaster for Lucy and for me. Every ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ From Lucy's Mom:

Well, the last three weeks have been a roller coaster for Lucy and for me. Every time I dare to hope she is getting better, something not so good seems to happen. Late last night, she started to get itchy and by this morning she had developed lesions all over her head and near her eyes. It was bad. So, off to the vet we went.

The vet was concerned. Lucy's symptoms and atypical response to medication has everyone very confused. One thing is very clear, there is something very wrong with Lucy's immune system and it's causing her to be uncomfortable and in pain and it's breaking my heart.

They gave her a steroid shot today to try to ease her discomfort from the itching and the lesions. They have ordered a new kind of medicine for her GI issues- they had to special order it and we won't have it for a couple of days (and of course today is Saturday so that doesn't help). They took a scrapping to culture her for ringworm as she is unusually susceptible to the ringworm fungus. I am hopeful that the lesions aren't ringworm ~ these lesions occured so suddenly and don't look like ringworm (and didn't glow under the special lamp) but when she had it a couple of years ago, her symptoms were atypical at that time. So we'll wait 2 weeks for the culture.

They also took more blood and have sent it to a special lab for allergy testing. They said that the extensive tests will be able to identify whatever she is allergic to, including foods and environmental things. They also said that the lab will send me a list of every food made for cats and will be able to identify any foods that she isn't allergic to. At this point, I am hopeful that we will be able to find out exactly what she is allergic to and stop guessing with all of the different foods.

I wanted to change her food again today ~ I think she is allergic to it. The vets strongly recommended I not change anything until the test results come back. If she does have IBD, another food change would not be good. So I guess we will wait.

Now it's a waiting game. 2-3 weeks for most of the results. Hopefully the steroid shot will provide her with some relief immediately. If not, we'll put an e-collar on to prevent her from scratching the leisions.

I am going to decide by Wednesday whether or not I will take the trip next weekend to Chicago. If Lucy is the same or any worse, I am not going. I feel badly about it- it's a bridal shower for one of my closest friends and I am one of her bridesmaids. Most of my friends and family already think I am a bit crazy when it comes to my animals but I don't think at this point it really matters what anyone else thinks. My friend, the bride : ), is a very close friend and she understands although if I don't go I know she'll be disappointed. But she'll understand. Lucy is my baby and I have to take care of her. She and Sophie are my priorities.

Please purr for Lucy that we can figure out why she is so sick and that she will get better.

Take care,
Molly (Lucy's mom)]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Extra cuddles</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492324</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 8 Aug 2008 21:41:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/492324</guid>
		<description>I LOVE weekends! I get to sleep in with my mommy and she gives me extra cuddles in the morning. Plus ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I LOVE weekends! I get to sleep in with my mommy and she gives me extra cuddles in the morning. Plus, mommy says this weekend we get to watch the Olympics ~ I have no idea what that means but mommy assured me that means even MORE cuddle time together! Therefore, I have decided that I love the Olympics, too. 

Purrs, 
Lucy

P.S. To all of my sweet friends, I just wanted to let you know that I am feeling pretty good today. I have been working hard to keep all of my rebellious little mousies in line and I have not allowed any of my glitter balls to escape. In addition, I can assure you that Sophie had a thorough bathing today by me, the Official Sophie Groomer. I take my responsiblities very, very seriously.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The storm has passed?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/491770</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 Aug 2008 07:36:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/491770</guid>
		<description>Well, the thunderstorm passed (thank cat!). Mom was watching the news and it looks like more could b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, the thunderstorm passed (thank cat!). Mom was watching the news and it looks like more could be coming, but I'll worry about that later : ) Luckily I have a very good, safe hiding spot and hiding partner (Sophie)!

I am feeling pretty good today. I am still on the anti-diarrhea medicine (yuck) and am having some poop and litter box issues. If this all doesn't resolve in the next two weeks, mom and the v-e-t say that I will have to have an ultrasound (whatever that means).  But overall, I am feeling much better. I've been chasing my mousies, chewing on their tails, and smacking them on their heads! I let them get away with a little too much relaxing over the last couple of weeks.

My mom has to go out of town for a couple of days next week. She's going to a bridal shower and then in October, she is going to be a bridesmaid in our friend's wedding! It's all very exciting except that mom doesn't like to leave me or Sophie behind (of course she doesn't!). Especially since I have been so sick and am still having litter box issues. 

She has a friend who, depending on how my recovery is going, will come check on me and attempt to give me my medicine. HA! Now THAT will be a sight to see! My mom is a bit worried about it (Mom worried? About ME? What else is new? MOL). She is trying to think positively and hopes that my litter box issues will be resolved before she goes. It's kind of been a mess lately with lots of clean up required and she would prefer that no one else be subjected to the clean up! Believe me, I would prefer that too. These tummy problems aren't fun for me, either. Keep your paws crossed that all goes well and my tummy heals soon!

Well, I'm off to have a bath and take a catnap in the window seat. I see a nice little ray of sunshine peeking through!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>*Shhhhh*</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/491139</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 6 Aug 2008 00:05:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/491139</guid>
		<description>Hi friends! *whispers* There is a thunderstorm going on right now. I'm hiding with Sophie in her dog ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends! *whispers* There is a thunderstorm going on right now. I'm hiding with Sophie in her doggie den. Don't tell the thunder or rain because I don't want them to find us! 

I'll write more when it's safe to come out......

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'll never tell : )</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/490538</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Aug 2008 16:57:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/490538</guid>
		<description>I found a new hiding spot! Mom thought she had me all figured out ~ she thought she knew ALL of my h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I found a new hiding spot! Mom thought she had me all figured out ~ she thought she knew ALL of my hiding spots! MOL!

Well, since she made me start taking that icky medicine again because I got sick last night, I figured that's it. I need a new, secret spot where mommy can't find me. When she came  home from work, she looked all over for me, rattling my mousies and calling my name. Ha! Nice try, mom. I didn't fall for any of her tricks today. 

I waited until she went downstairs and then I emerged from my secret spot, stretching and yawning. She doesn't even know which room I was hiding in! 

And guess what? I'll never tell!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanks Friends!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/490071</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 3 Aug 2008 18:35:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/490071</guid>
		<description>Hi friends!

I am feeling much better and finished my medicine! I've been playful and have been ba ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends!

I am feeling much better and finished my medicine! I've been playful and have been back to work as the official family groomer (Sophie is happy about that!). I'm still having some, um, litter box issues but mom is optimistic that the food change will help with that.

Thanks to all of my friends who have sent me febreze gifts ~ mmm, my page smells good! I also want to thank my friends who have been checking in on me since I got sick, sending messages of support, and sending me get well rosettes and gifts ~ you are all so very thoughtful!

I received some very nice p mails of support and purrs from my friends ~ thank you for your words of encouragement <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/614924">Margo</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/639482">Charity Valentine Fajer</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/819881">Stoney</a>, my new friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/234113">Polka Dot</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/766114">Al</a>.

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799708">Doc</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799701">Reena</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/799706">Chloe</a> ~ thank you friends for your sweet message and the lady bug. Thank you, 
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/67694">Hunter</a>, for the tulips and the heart! To sweet little <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/804216">Miracle</a>, thank you for all the pmails, purrs, and the heart. Thank you to the family of <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/89142">The Drifter, Mouse, Purdie, Muffin, Willow, Charley, Ellie, Flick, Toby, Bonnie, April, Merlin, Toby too, Sylvester, Gazza, Tikka, Arri, Red, Smudge, Smokey, Pooh, Bruiser, Thomas, and Da Vinci</a> for all of your purrs and the heart. Thanks to the family of <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/family/328838">KC Sunshine, Mittens, Abby, Pete, and Jennifer</a> for the ladybug.

To <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/445040">Pearlie Pants</a>, and dogsters <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/261386">Charlotte</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://www.dogster.com/dogs/525757">Wilbur</a>, thank you for the tulips and thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/619310">Phineas</a> for the heart! Thank you <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/805063">Pixie</a> for the pink ribbon and the ball of yarn and thanks to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/420507">Rico</a> for the ray of sunshine! Thank you to my dear friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629699">Oliver</a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/629962">Dewey</a> for the watermelon and the sweet words!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82490">Hershey</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82514">Annadee</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82670">Rafiki</a>, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/355336">Benjamin</a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/777900">Zachary</a> ~ thanks for my new mousie! Also, thank you so much for all of the information you gave to my mommy regarding IBD and foods ~ it was so helpful and we really appreciate your friendship!

How sweet and wonderful to have such thoughful and caring friends!

love,
Lucy

P.S. And more thanks for all of your purrs for my new cousin <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/818714">Baby Marley</a> ~ she is feeling so much better and has gained a whole pound! She is now nearly 2 pounds and is playing and running around like a kitten should. She may be driving her older brother <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Max</a> a little crazy but I'm sure they will be the best of friends!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Training my mommy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/487518</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 23:02:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/487518</guid>
		<description>Mmmm, I like my new food! I was SO hungry and I gobbled it right up! Then, I went back to mom's bed  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mmmm, I like my new food! I was SO hungry and I gobbled it right up! Then, I went back to mom's bed to rest. Then, I figured something really funny out : )

Mom was downstairs with the t.v. on doing paperwork *Lucy hisses at paperwork* All of a sudden she heard a weird noise. She put the t.v. on mute because she thought the noise came from there but wasn't sure. She didn't think it was me ~ although I am a chatterbox, I have been very, very quiet while sick. Suddenly, she hears the noise again and it IS ME! "Mew! Mew! Meeeeeew!" She jumps up and runs upstairs calling out, "Hold on Lucy, I'm coming. It's okay, Lucy." She sounded really worried.

She runs into the room and flips on the lights. She sees me sitting on the bed  and she sees something strange near my tummy and front paw! She rushes over and discovers......my mousie! That's right friends! I was feeling well enough to find a mousie and bring it up onto the bed with me. I was calling mom to let her know I wanted to play! And wouldn't you know it?!?!? It TOTALLY worked! You can bet I'll be doing that again ~ probably tonight in the middle of the night when she's sleeping! MOL!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New food</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/487333</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:34:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/487333</guid>
		<description>Update from Lucy's Mom:

Lucy is still not feeling well and continues to have diarrhea despite the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Update from Lucy's Mom:

Lucy is still not feeling well and continues to have diarrhea despite the twice daily anti-diarrhea medication. She has not vomited since Saturday night so I am hopeful she is feeling a little better. She is currently sprawled out on my bed near a little patch of sunshine ~ that is an improvement from under the bed : )

I spoke at length with her vet this morning. I really like the vet ~ she has been very available, even calling to check in after hours on Saturday. She said that she's been reviewing Lucy's medical files and thinks Lucy probably does have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

We discussed some different options. The only way to 100% confirm the diagnosis is through a biopsy of the stomach lining. This is an invasive procedure which would involve putting Lucy under and performing an endoscopy. The other option is to have an internal medicine doctor perform an ultrasound ~ it wouldn't be a definitive diagnosis but with her history, it could be a subjective diagnosis. Either way, she will then need to go on a long term steroid medication regime. 

The plan as of this moment is to try Lucy on a new food. We will give it until Friday. If the food change helps with the diarrhea, then we will take more of a wait and see approach and recheck blood levels in 4-6 weeks. If she is still sick by Friday, we are going to make an appointment with the internal medicine doc for the ultrasound.

I am going to wait until I get home this evening from work to try the new food. I want to be here just in case she has a bad reaction. Overall, I am worried about her. The vet gave me a bunch of information on IBD and I am still trying to mentally process it. I am still not entirely clear as to the relationship b/t food allergies and IBD. Could one cause the other? If she has IBD, maybe that has been the problem all along and she doesn't have food allergies? Are they kind of the same thing? I am making a list of my questions for the next time I speak with the vet.

Until then, keep your paws crossed that the new food helps to ease her symptoms. Oh, and that she LIKES the new food : )

Take care,
Molly ~ Lucy's mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Feeling a little better today!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486984</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 27 Jul 2008 13:44:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486984</guid>
		<description>Hi friends!

Yesterday and last night were not good. Mommy got really worried about me and we almo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends!

Yesterday and last night were not good. Mommy got really worried about me and we almost made a trip to the ER v-e-t in the middle of the night. Once mom had decided we needed to go to the v-e-t, she quickly took Sophie outside to do her business. 

Well, that is always an interesting sight to behold! So, I emerged from under the ottoman and hopped into the window seat to watch them. When they came back in, I took a couple of playful kitty swipes at Sophie's tail (Holy cat, have you seen that thing? It's so big and fluffy and it's IMPOSSIBLE to resist). Then, mom showed me where the litter box is and I used it. I still have really bad diarrhea, but I kept it in the litter box (that made mommy happy!).  Then, I hopped out and ate some food and drank some water! AND I kept it all down!

With (mom's) fingers crossed and (my) paws crossed, it's been about 12 hours since I got sick. I guess the v-e-t wasn't crazy when she told mom to give me some Pepcid AC! Right now I am curled up in my kitty bed bathing my paws ~ I am feeling better today. And oh my cat, am I hungry today!

Thank you for all of the sweet messages and rosettes! I love my catster (and dogster!) friends!

Well, I've got to go. I have some serious grooming to do ~ not only me, but Sophie, too. That silly dog relies on me to keep her clean (well, and mommy, too. But mostly me.).

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Views from under the bed</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486814</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 Jul 2008 22:31:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486814</guid>
		<description>Hi kitty friends! It's been a long day for me. I spent most of it sleeping under mom's bed. A couple ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi kitty friends! It's been a long day for me. I spent most of it sleeping under mom's bed. A couple of times I played with mom and one of my mousies ~ I swatted at it and got it good! But I stayed under the bed and swatted from there.

I'm still not feeling good; I've been throwing up tonight and do not want to eat. Mom called the v-e-t (I never knew that calling the v~e~t was an option~ I prefer that to actually going to the v-e-t) and she sent mom to the store to get me some medicine to help me stop getting sick. I was a brave girl and took my new pill without any problems. And, paws crossed, I haven't gotten sick since I took that little pill.

Right now I am laying on the ottoman next to mom. I'm curled up next to her laptop because it's so nice and warm! Thanks to all of my friends who have sent my get well presents and messages. You guys are the best!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Results</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486576</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 Jul 2008 12:10:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486576</guid>
		<description>No parasites. The fecal analysis came back as normal. Although the vet had said that a diagnosis of  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ No parasites. The fecal analysis came back as normal. Although the vet had said that a diagnosis of parasites would be okay as it was easy to treat and would explain Lucy's illness, I am still kind of relieved. It really bothered me to think she somehow might have picked up parasites......

So, here's what we know- it's not parasites and it's not any of the scary kitty viruses. That's good news! Of course, we still don't know what's going on. She had a much better day yesterday and I had hoped we turned the corner. But last night was not good. More vomiting and diarrhea. And today she refuses to come out from under my bed. Poor kitty. I'm going to leave her be for awhile and let her get some rest (without crazy mommy in her face trying to give her medicine).

I don't know much about inflammatory bowel disease but that is the next issue the vet wants to rule out. We may change her food on Monday- maybe to Royal Canin H/P?- to see if that helps her tummy. It's kind of a bummer because she lasted for 6 months on the current food and seemed to be doing really well until this week. But the anti-diarrhea medicine is not yet working and if a food change will help her feel better, we'll do it. 

I think one of the hardest things as a kitty (and doggie) human mom is when a little one is sick. I feel so bad for her and although I know the medicine is a good thing, it's sad to have to be the one to give it to her ~ I kind of have to trick her to give her the medicine and it's like she is losing trust in me. I know it's only temporary; the medicine will help her feel better, then she won't need it, and then she will trust me again, but it isn't fun for either of us. 

No need to be overly concerned for Lucy, just keep your paws crossed that the medicine helps her!

Take care and have a great weekend.
Lucy's mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom's got a case of the crazies (and I've got a new mousie!)</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486304</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:50:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486304</guid>
		<description>My mom has been behaving very, very oddly the past few days. She was hovering over me and kinda foll ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom has been behaving very, very oddly the past few days. She was hovering over me and kinda following me around. Normally, I'd be cool with that (the more mommy the better!) but I haven't been feeling good and just kinda wanted to be left alone (with occasional loving initiated by ME).

She kept talking to me about the litter box but I didn't feel like using it. Last time I used it, it didn't go so well : ( 

But eventually I had no choice. So in the middle of the night, when mommy was sleeping nearby, I snuck over, hopped in, and did my business. Well holy cat ~ my mommy was obviously only pretending to be asleep (note to self next time I want to play fetch in the middle of the night) and she ran over. She gushed over me about what a good girl I am and then the mommy crazies REALLY came out! She got a container and she saved my stuff! Weird.

Well, somehow I made her really, really happy just by doing my business. The truth is, I felt much better afterwards. Mom and I played with my toys and I gave her lots of headbonks and purrs. Then I gave myself a thorough bathing as I hadn't felt well enough to bath myself the past few days. Wow was that bath needed!

Today, when mommy got home from work, she gave me a new mousie! And this mousie is the king of all mousies ~ I've never seen anything like it! It is a mousie with a tummy like a tennis ball and it's tummy is filled with catnip and a bell! Sweet!

With all of this bizarre mommy behavior, I've decided that she's got a case of the crazies. She says it's because she's crazy FOR ME!

love,
Lucy

Update from Lucy's mom:
She seems to be feeling better today. The medicine is helping but she still has some diarrhea. We should hopefully get the results of the analysis sometime tomorrow and then we will have a better idea of what's going on (hopefully). Thanks for all the sweet messages and support!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hiding from mommy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486012</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:48:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/486012</guid>
		<description>*whispers* I've been hiding from my mommy. She's bugging me a little today. She's been giving me *sh ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ *whispers* I've been hiding from my mommy. She's bugging me a little today. She's been giving me *shudders* medicine. Yuck. She's also been watching me a little too closely. I mean, I'm not a baby- I don't need a babysitter!

She said she's waiting for me to use the litter box. Well keep waiting mom, it's kinda hard for me to make that happen with this medicine you keep giving me!

So, I've been hiding- first under her bed and then this evening, I hid under the ottoman. She found me in both places but left me alone so I could get some sleep. I'm just not really feeling very good. I did come out and say hi to her earlier this evening. I even let her rub my belly and that felt good! She got a headbonk for her efforts.

Purrs to my sweet friends. Thanks for all of the rosettes, gifts, and sweet messages and pmails ~ I'm feeling the love!

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hovering mommy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485809</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:24:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485809</guid>
		<description>Lucy is definitely sick. I've had to give up the denial. She's lethargic and not herself at all. The ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Lucy is definitely sick. I've had to give up the denial. She's lethargic and not herself at all. There is some good news- she is still eating and drinking and has not vomited in 36 hours. She has not used the litter box for #2 since the accident in the carrier yesterday so I'm not sure where we are at with the diarrhea. She is on the diarrhea medication and has not resisted the medicine too much so that is good.

The vet called this morning with the blood test results. She was negative for all of the scary kitty viruses so that is good! Her white blood cell count and her protein count were abnormal- everything else was normal.

The vet thinks she might have contracted some kind of parasite as that is what the abnormal blood test indicates. It is kind of weird because she is an indoor only kitty so I am not sure where the exposure would have come from. The vet said sometimes kitties can have parasites for a long time before showing any symptoms and maybe had it before she was adopted. I don't know if I buy that as she has had so many blood tests and workups done over the past 3 years to figure out/ diagnosis her food allergies. The vet checked and her last blood test was completely normal so this is a change.

So, the plan is that I am to hover over her until she uses the litter box so we can get a sample tested to see if it is parasites. The funny thing is that the vet said parasites would be a better diagnosis than the alternatives as we could easily treat it orally. So, I guess I am kind of HOPING for parasites (which seems odd). 

If it is parasites, I'm going to take Sophie to the vet to make sure she doesn't have it, too. She's nearly 14 so I worry about her catching anything. The vet said that if Lucy does have some kind of parasite, it's really unlikely that Sophie would have caught it (keep your paws crossed!).

If it's not parasites, then I will take her back in 4-6 weeks for another blood test to see where the levels are. From there, we will do an ultrasound (or x-ray? now I can't remember what the vet said). If it's not parasites, the vet thinks she might have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (which might explain the last 3 years of food allergy hell).

In the meantime, I'm just waiting. I took the day off of work yesterday to be with her and just came home to check on her. She was hiding under my bed - not typical of her. My next appointment for work cancelled so I can stay with her for most of today although I do have an evening appointment so I'll have to leave for a couple of hours later. Luckily, tomorrow is a very slow day for me at work and I can do some of my work from home.

This is turning into a looong diary entry- thanks to my friends who are actually reading it! I am worried about her. I know that this is obviously a very different situation than what happened with Sally in May but it's the first sickness we have had since that time. I think I'm still a little traumatized from Sally's illness so Lucy being sick has me a bit anxious. 

Anyways, keep your paws crossed that I am home when she is ready to leave me a "sample."

Take care,
Lucy's mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A whole lot of no fun</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485474</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 Jul 2008 15:42:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485474</guid>
		<description>So mom tricked me today. She was giving me loving and the next thing I knew, I was in that stupid ca ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So mom tricked me today. She was giving me loving and the next thing I knew, I was in that stupid carrier and we were in (cat forbid) the car. I let her know how much I hated it by persistently meowing and screaming at her.

We went to the v-e-t. Yuck. They did all the horrible things they always do there although they did go on and on about how pretty I am. I tried to hide in their cabinets but they found me : (

The tech took me in the back. She carried me in her arms and we walked past a poor kitty who was getting a b-a-t-h. Can you even imagine? The carrier, the car ride, the v-e-t, AND a bath all on the same day? Poor kitty. He meowed at me and I gave him a sympathetic "mew". Poor guy.

They took some blood from me and then brought me back to mom. I didn't really even want to look at her. I tried to hide in the cabinet again but they were on to me.

Finally, we left. I had an accident in my carrier on the way home and then mom had to clean me up once we got home. Sophie kept sniffing me. I mewed at her, "Hey, I know I smell bad. It's not my fault." I don't like going to the v-e-t.

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom- They aren't really sure what is going on with her. Thankfully she wasn't dehydrated and overall she looked pretty good. She still has the diarrhea but (fingers crossed) no vomiting today. They took blood and will have most of the test results sometime tomorrow. They are also sending out a second panel and that will take a few days to get those results.

She got some new medicine for her kitty acne. No signs of ringworm (thank goodness!) which had been a problem in the past. She had lost a pound since our last visit but the vet wasn't concerned. She also needs her teeth cleaned but we'll wait until the end of August for that.

They prescribed a anti-diarrhea medicine. I have to go over to the compounding pharmacy to order it for her. The only problem is that it is really bitter so they have to flavor it and our choices are limited to beef, chicken, and salmon. Because of her allergies, those choices are not too great for Lucy. We are going to try the salmon (again, with fingers crossed).

I'm still not super concerned. Whatever this is, we'll take care of it. She was playing with her mousies this morning so she doesn't feel awful but certainly the diarrhea is no fun.  

We'll share the update once we get the results of the blood work back. Take care!

Lucy's mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sophie slobber</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485384</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:40:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485384</guid>
		<description>So I was hanging out on my little cat condo and out of nowhere, my doggie sister Sophie poked me wit ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So I was hanging out on my little cat condo and out of nowhere, my doggie sister Sophie poked me with her wet, drippy nose. She nosed me! And slobbered on me!

I let out a "mew" to end all mews! My mom came running when she heard me but by then, I was okay- just slobbery and kinda irritated with my sister. Turns out I don't like to be nosed!

So I smacked her nose with my paw. No claws cause that wasn't really necessary, just a big smack to remind her who's boss. She didn't seem to mind- she kept wagging her tail and smiling at me. She's just so cute so my irritation quickly dissipated. But seriously. No nosing me, Sophie!

love,
Lucy

From Lucy's mom-
She seems to be feeling okay today. She was playing with her mousies earlier and no more vomiting. *whispers* I am taking her to the vet at 2 pm just to be on the safe side.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hmmm......</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485225</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 23 Jul 2008 03:07:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485225</guid>
		<description>Something is going on with little Lucy. It's late here- she woke me up at 2 am. She had some pretty  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Something is going on with little Lucy. It's late here- she woke me up at 2 am. She had some pretty bad diarrhea and was not able to make it to the litter box. I am not letting myself get too concerned at this point ~ I'll call the vet first thing in the morning and take her in.

She was acting a bit strange all day. Before I left for work this morning, she threw up. I stayed with her for awhile and she seemed okay. A couple of hours after I got home from work, she threw up again but afterwards seemed okay. She was still drinking water and had her appetite. I did notice that she was lying on the tile in the window seat rather than her kitty bed and that seemed odd to me. I also noticed that she seemed a bit (for a lack of a better word) "scruffy" today. Not her usual well-groomed, pristine self.

She has had a history of severe food allergies and, without a doubt, has a weak immune system. We've battled through some pretty awful times together (at one point she was in an e-collar for nearly 3 months- poor kitty). If this is related to her food or a flare up of her food allergies, it's unusual compared to her history of food allergies. It came out of nowhere today. I kind of think it's something else. Maybe just a little stomach bug? Or maybe that's wishful thinking on my part. Can cats even get just a little stomach bug?

Whatever it is, I'm not going to get all worked up about it. Whatever it is, we'll deal with it. I hate to have to change her food again; she really seemed to like this food and it has lasted for a long time- more than 6 months.

I'll call the vet first thing tomorrow and take her in. Keep your paws crossed but no need to worry at this point.

Good night,
Lucy's mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>What's the deal with this &quot;work&quot; thing?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485099</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:15:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/485099</guid>
		<description>So, my mom goes to &quot;work&quot; mostly every day. It bugs me. She usually comes home once in the middle of ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, my mom goes to "work" mostly every day. It bugs me. She usually comes home once in the middle of the day to give me some loving (and she also takes Sophie outside to do her business, but I'm POSITIVE that the primary purpose of her midday visit is the Lucy loving).

I don't get this whole "work" thing. She says that "work" is somehow directly related to the number of mousies I have and the yummy food in my dish but if I could have my mommy here with me every day I'd gladly trade my mousies......Um, I  mean 1 mousie (and by 1 mousie I mean the one mousie that has no eyes, ears, or nose, is coming unravelled, has lost it's tail, and has been missing for a month). Yep, I'd certainly trade THAT mousie to have mom home with me everyday. 

It's just that I miss her and all Sophie does is sleep while mommy is gone. I play with my mousies but that's obviously not as fun without mommy. 

So each day I wait in my kitty bed on the window seat, waiting to see mommy walk in through the door. *Sigh*]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Baby Marley Update!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484673</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:02:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484673</guid>
		<description>UPDATE! Baby Marley is home from the hospital! Her mom picked her up this afternoon. Her weight has  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ UPDATE! <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/818714">Baby Marley</a> is home from the hospital! Her mom picked her up this afternoon. Her weight has gone up from 10 ounces last week to 1.4 pounds today. She is feeling better and has rediscovered her purr! Her mom said Marley looks so much better compared to Friday when she went home with the vet.

It is a miracle that this sweet kitten is still alive. We are so happy that she is home with her forever family! *Lucy does a little happy dance* And.......she is officially on Catster! Click on her name link above to meet her!

Thanks for all of your purrs! We continue to purr for Marley to keep getting better and for all of the other kitties and families in need of purrs!

love,
Lucy and family

P.S. My sister Sally is sending special angel purrs!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Baby Marley started purring again!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484543</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:35:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484543</guid>
		<description>My cousin Marley is doing better today! She comes home from the hospital this afternoon. The vet sai ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My cousin Marley is doing better today! She comes home from the hospital this afternoon. The vet said she has started purring again!!! Hopefully baby Marley will have her own Catster page up in next day or two now that she is feeling better (hint, hint Aunt Sarah!).

Purrs,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Purrs for my cousin, baby Marley</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484313</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:23:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/484313</guid>
		<description>My aunt (my mom's sister) adopted a new little kitten last week. Her name is Baby Marley. She has be ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My aunt (my mom's sister) adopted a new little kitten last week. Her name is <a id="img0211411989" +  class=bodyTextRev target=site  onClick="alert('Catster Alert: You are about to visit an outside link that was submitted by this pet owner.');" href="http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/mollystrothkamp/marley009.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img0211411989').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z31/m' + 'ollystrothkamp/marley009.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'Baby Marley'">Baby Marley</a>. She has been so sick that they haven't had a chance to put her Catster page up. She is a little baby that was adopted by my aunt from a rescue group. 

Marley was found as a tiny baby near her mother who had passed on to the bridge. She was taken in and cared for by a rescue. She was thought to be about 8 weeks old when adopted by my aunt a week ago. When adopted, Marley weighed just under 2 pounds; the rescue had already had her spayed before she was adopted. 

Unfortunately, Marley has become very, very ill and now weighs only 10 ounces. She was taken home by the vet this weekend in critical condition; the vet is hopeful that with special round the clock vet care including putting Marley back on the bottle and giving her sub q fluids every two hours that Marley might be able to pull through. They are not exactly sure why she is so sick and not eating or drinking; the vet thinks that Marley may be younger than 8-9 weeks old and was spayed too early. Her little body is having trouble healing. The vet has been amazing ~ how wonderful that the vet was so willing to try and save this little kitten's life! She has taken Marley into her home over the weekend to care for her!

She is so adorable  and she is doing everything she can to pull through~ we have all been so worried about her. I am purring and purring and purring for my little cousin Marley.

love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sweet smelling Sophie!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/483888</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Jul 2008 18:28:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/483888</guid>
		<description>Weird day today for me. Mom took Sophie in the car and they were gone for 3 hours! 3 whole hours ~ I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Weird day today for me. Mom took Sophie in the car and they were gone for 3 hours! 3 whole hours ~ I missed them! I waited in my kitty bed in the front window seat and I meowed like a crazy kitty when I saw mom and Sophie FINALLY walking up to the front door. "Where were you?" I meowed, frantically sniffing and headbonking Sophie as they walked in the door.

A little while later, I heard one of my least favorite sounds. Mom was filling up the bathtub with water. Well, I immediately ran from my perch in the window seat and hid. When I was really sick a couple of years ago, mom had to bathe me once a week for 2 months with a really horrible medicine. It was during that period in my life that I discovered exactly how much I despise baths. Anyways......

Luckily, I'm a really, REALLY good hider. I guess today it didn't matter because it was poor Sophie who was getting the bath. And sadly for her, she's too big to hide. I gave her a sympathy "mew" from my hiding spot. Although I would have liked to help her, I couldn't risk it.

I have good news to report: As a result of her bath, Sophie smells very, VERY good. And I think that it may decrease the frequency with which I need to groom Sophie, at least for a few days.  Have you seen her? She's the furriest creature in the world, dog or cat. Grooming her is a big job for a little kitty like me. It's about time mom stepped in to help me with the Sophie grooming duties.

Purrs,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sunny spots and yummy toes</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/483563</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:40:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/483563</guid>
		<description>I found a new favorite spot. My angel sister Sally used to love this spot and I've decided she was a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I found a new favorite spot. My angel sister Sally used to love this spot and I've decided she was a very smart kitty- it's a good spot! Between 5:30 pm and 7 pm every evening, a ray of sunlight comes through the guest bedroom window. If I lay near the pillows, I get a whole hour and a half of sunlight streaming in through the window. It feels so nice and warm! I stretch out and let the sunlight land on my belly. I love it!

My mom has seen me in my new favorite spot a couple of times in the last few weeks. Today, when she got home from work, I greeted her at the front door. I let her give me a little loving and then I headed back upstairs ~ I didn't want to miss my ray of sunshine!

Mommy must have wondered where I was so she came upstairs, investigating. When she found me sprawled out on the guest bed, she laid down with me! Well, oh my goodness, that was so exciting! I flopped down, got back up again, gave her repeated headbonks and even tried to groom her face- she didn't seem to enjoy that as much as I did. Something about sandpaper kisses......

Then, I flopped down by her feet and I looked right at her and said, "Mew." I leaned over, looked right at her, and tried to chew on one of her toes. She didn't really seem to like that either (although it did make her laugh) so I stopped chewing on her toe. It didn't really taste too good, anyways.

I wasn't really trying to EAT her toe. It was just a...... love nibble. MOL!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello? Mousies? Hello?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/482824</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:13:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/482824</guid>
		<description>Where did all my new mousies go? I'm going to have to send my mom on a mousie hunt through the house ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Where did all my new mousies go? I'm going to have to send my mom on a mousie hunt through the house. 

In the meantime, I guess I'll play with Mr. Fishie and my glitter balls. *sigh*]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Why, hello there mousies!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/481346</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:58:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/481346</guid>
		<description>I've got exciting news to share! My mommy opened a whole new package of my favorite mousies last nig ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've got exciting news to share! My mommy opened a whole new package of my favorite mousies last night and she gave me ALL four of them! 

She knows how much I love my mousies! My mommy is a pretty smart human (although she was not able to locate all of my other mousies!) *whispers* That's because I hid them under the dryer, the bed and the dresser. Well, I didn't actually hide them on purpose, they escaped from my claws and are now just out of my reach. Darn smart mousies.

Anyways! I was missing my mousies and then all of a sudden there were four brand new mousies! I spent some time rolling on them and marking them with my lovely Lucy scent so that the mousies and everyone else know they are MY mousies. Then I went crazy! Mousies everywhere (including on mommy's head in the middle of the night)!

I LOVE MOUSIES!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Talk to me!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/480136</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:49:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/480136</guid>
		<description>I'm  a chatty cat. I like to talk and comment on pretty much everything I see.  I also REALLY like w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm  a chatty cat. I like to talk and comment on pretty much everything I see.  I also REALLY like when people talk to me! I especially love when my mommy talks to me!

All she has to do is say my name or look at me and say pretty much anything and I get really happy. I immediately headbonk whatever or whoever is near me- this includes my mom, my sister Sophie, the floor, the wall, furniture, whatever is closest! If she keeps talking to me, I keep bonking my head on things and then sometimes I flop down and roll on the ground.

It makes my mom laugh but I just can't help it. I love, love, LOVE when people talk to me!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Who needs fancy toys? I'll take a box, please.</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/478449</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 5 Jul 2008 22:28:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/478449</guid>
		<description>Big news! There is a new box in the house! It's kind of flat and narrow but I can squeeze in it! Oh, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Big news! There is a new box in the house! It's kind of flat and narrow but I can squeeze in it! Oh, and it's fun to sit on top of it, too!!!!!! I've been sitting on top of my new box like a princess, grooming myself!

Mom got a new laptop and the box must have been a bonus! Something like buy a computer and get this awesome box for free! Actually, no, I bet it was more like buy this super awesome box and get a laptop for free! That's how great this box is!

Seriously. It's the best! It. is. the. best. box. EVER! 

Excuse me now, I'm going to go play with my new box!

Love,
Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thunderstorms and fireworks, too?!?!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/478063</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 4 Jul 2008 18:23:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/478063</guid>
		<description>I'm not a big fan of fireworks (or thunderstorms, either)! Sophie and I hide together in her doggie  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm not a big fan of fireworks (or thunderstorms, either)! Sophie and I hide together in her doggie den. I cuddle with her, sometimes even on top of her! 

When mom first saw me in Sophie's den during a thunderstorm, she was a little worried (ha! mom worry? what else is new!)! The very first time she found me in there, I was still pretty little. Sophie was curled up in a ball and I had climbed right onto her and had my face buried in the fur on her back and neck! I stayed there for hours and Sophie didn't seem to mind. Actually, I think cuddling together made Sophie and I both feel better!

So, after years of my scaredy behavior of hiding with Sophie, mom is used to it. Anytime there is thunder, rain, or those darn fireworks, that's where you can find me- cuddling and hiding with my big furry sister Sophie!

And wouldn't you know it? Yesterday we had a thunderstorm and mom says tonight we might have a thunderstorm and fireworks! Sophie, get ready- here I come!

Oh, and a happy 4th of July to everyone!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Cat napping with mom!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/477007</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 1 Jul 2008 23:31:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/477007</guid>
		<description>Today, I surprised mom by taking a nap by her head! I used to do that when I was a kitty but now tha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today, I surprised mom by taking a nap by her head! I used to do that when I was a kitty but now that I'm a big girl I'm not too into snuggling. Actually, I like when mommy gives me loving and attention, but I get so excited about it that I can only take a little bit at a time. I'm most certainly not a lap cat!

I do like to sleep near mom, but I only join her once she's already asleep and I move before she wakes up. If she wakes up and sees me there and tries to pet me, I move along. 

Of course, today I was just soooo sleepy and I couldn't help myself! I plopped down right next to her and took a cat nap. I could tell mom wanted to pet me (I opened my eyes and peeked at her a couple of times), but I've taught her well!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The official Sophie groomer</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/475821</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 19:42:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/475821</guid>
		<description>Okay, I realize that I am the least furry of my fur siblings. I mean, geez, of course I know! I spen ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Okay, I realize that I am the least furry of my fur siblings. I mean, geez, of course I know! I spend much of my time grooming Sophie- that's my job! And I take it very, very seriously.

But.......I still love when mommy brushes me. And when she tries to take over my job of grooming Sophie, I let her know that it's really MY turn to be brushed.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Baby dinosaur?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/475531</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:19:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/475531</guid>
		<description>I recently started letting mom know when Sophie needs to go outside or come inside by meowing. But.. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I recently started letting mom know when Sophie needs to go outside or come inside by meowing. But......

Everytime I meow to let mom know about my doggie sister Sophie, mom starts laughing! She said I don't sound like a kitty- she says I sound like a baby dinosaur!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tagged!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/473972</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:42:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/473972</guid>
		<description>I have been tagged by my beautiful friend Hershey! I have to name six things I don't like and then t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have been tagged by my beautiful friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/82490">Hershey</a>! I have to name six things I don't like and then tag six friends.

Here goes:
1. I do not like thunder (or rain or loud noises).
2. I do not like to be cold.
3. I do not like car rides (or where they usually lead- the v e t).
4. I do not like when Mommy and Sophie are outside.
5. I do not like when my mousies or Mr. Fishie or my glitter balls roll under furniture and I can't reach them (or do I like this? I seem to set up this situation quite frequently).
6. I do not like kitty treats (they give me itchy ears).

I am tagging the following six kitties:

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/355336">Benjamin</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/295334">Cousin Max</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/758261">Baxter</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/775351">Gertie</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/785618">Destiny</a>
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/142542">Onyx</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>making new friends</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/471550</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:18:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/471550</guid>
		<description>I have a new friend. He is red, blue, yellow, and purple. He's different then my mousies- he doesn't ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have a new friend. He is red, blue, yellow, and purple. He's different then my mousies- he doesn't make any rattle noises and he is satiny soft, not rough and stringy like my mousies. My mom told me that he is a fishie. I think I like fishies!

The truth is, Mr. Fishie has been around for a long, long time. I never really took notice of him. He was quite obviously NOT a mousie and I am partial to mousies. The other day, as I was picking up all of my kitty toys and dropping them/batting them to the floor from their perch on my cat tree(which I love to do!), I noticed Mr. Fishie. He didn't see me. He was just lying there on the floor, next to all of my mousies and a couple of glitter balls and feather puffs.

"Hmmm, what IS that?" I wondered. To mommy, my wondering sounded like a short mew and a quick clicking sound. I quickly jumped down and ducked behind the cat tree. Then I slowly peeked my head around the corner......and he was still there! He hadn't heard me.

I ducked back behind my cat tree and I raised my little kitty bottom up in the air, my tail twitching from side to side. I peeked around the corner again- he was still there- no sign of movement! 

With my tail twitching I POUNCED! I landed directly on Mr. Fishie- I rolled around on him, picked him up in my paws, nipped at him, and then clutched him to my chest. I immediately realized how much I liked Mr. Fishie- he's all satiny and slippery and the slipperiness really tests my hunting abilities!

No, don't get me wrong. I still love my mousies! But this Mr. Fishie, he is my new friend!


Lucy the fishie hunter!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sorry mom, not interested</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/469719</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:18:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/469719</guid>
		<description>I was hanging out with my doggie sister Sophie today on mom's bed. We were peacefully looking out th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was hanging out with my doggie sister Sophie today on mom's bed. We were peacefully looking out the window and dozing when all of a sudden my mom appeared!

She kept saying how cute we looked and she went and grabbed her camera. Right before she was about to take a photo, I hopped off the bed and started to walk away. She picked me up and put me back on the bed but, let's be honest, the moment had passed. Sorry mom, too slow! So I hopped off the bed again. 

Of course, she picked me up again and set me down next to Sophie again. This time, I realized that Sophie hadn't had a good kitty bath for at least ten minutes, so I went to work. I primarily concentrated on her right ear and her fuzzy neck. Let me tell you, keeping her clean is a full time job!

And as I was busy grooming my sister, my mom kept calling my name and making weird clicking sounds. Um, sorry, but I'm too busy to look in your direction or acknowledge you, Mom! 

I did finally let her take a picture of me next to Sophie, but I turned my back to the camera!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Diary of the Day</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/469342</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:54:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/469342</guid>
		<description>Wow! Thank you so much to Catster HQ for making my diary the featured Diary of the Day! I am very, v ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! Thank you so much to Catster HQ for making my diary the featured Diary of the Day! I am very, very excited about such a lovely honor!

Thank you to the sweet and awesome kitties who have left me treats and rosettes! And thank you to all of my friends, new and old ,who have sent me congratulations and love!  

There are lots of exclamations points (!)  in this entry but that's just because I am so happy!

Love, Lucy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Silly Mom! I'm fine!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/468529</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Jun 2008 16:13:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/468529</guid>
		<description>My mom is so silly- such a total worrywart! She had to go out of town for the weekend and she was so ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My mom is so silly- such a total worrywart! She had to go out of town for the weekend and she was soooooo worried about me! It was the first time I have ever been home alone. My doggie sister Sophie stays at the vet's boarding (aka Maui) and usually Sally and I stay home together and mom has someone check in on us. But since Sally went to the rainbow bridge a month ago, it was just me at home, all alone.......

And mom was driving herself crazy worrying about how I would do, home all alone for the first time. So she had the cat sitter come by 3 times in two days and she couldn't stop worrying about me the whole time she was gone! Really, it was so silly of her. I'm a big girl and it was kinda fun to have the house all to myself. I mostly slept, watched birds out the window, and chased my toys around the house. I loved when the cat sitter came by- she told mommy that I was more affectionate and social than I have ever been before- I even let her pick me up and hold me!

I was happy when mom and Sophie got home today- I had a lot to tell them! I think my mom still thinks I am a little kitten- the baby of the family.......but I proved to her that I am (kind of) all grown up now!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Midnight energy!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/466498</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 Jun 2008 19:05:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/466498</guid>
		<description>Well, everyone around my house is still pretty sad. It seems like everyone (my mom) is starting to c ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, everyone around my house is still pretty sad. It seems like everyone (my mom) is starting to come to terms with the reality that my sister Sally has gone to rainbow bridge but we all still feel pretty sad about it.

I was so confused the first few days! I kept meowing and in the middle of the night, I stalked my mommy and repeatedly dropped all of my favorite toys on her head all night long. I also managed to climb behind a dresser and get stuck (at 3 am)! Luckily Mom heard me right away and rescued me. Then she rearranged the dresser so that I can no longer get behind it! 

Oh and I have started carrying all of my favorite toys in front of the dresser, dropping them, and then batting them under the dresser where no one can reach them! The best part is, I lay there and meow over and over again until mommy comes, moves the dresser, and frees my toys! And then......I do it all over again! I have taught my mommy my favorite game- fetch.

I guess that I just really miss Sally and now that I don't have her to play with in the middle of the night, mom will do.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sad Stuff</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/463340</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 25 May 2008 00:39:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lucy ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/310190/diary/Lucy_chatter/463340</guid>
		<description>It's been strange around our house. My sister Sally left one day (May 9th) and she didn't come back. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's been strange around our house. My sister Sally left one day (May 9th) and she didn't come back. I looked for her for three days, calling out to her from all corners of my house and looking everywhere, even in the closets (which I can open because I am so smart- oh, and Sally taught me how to open bi-fold doors!). 

I miss her- she always made my favorite spots warm for me! Sometimes we didn't get along but most of the time we coexisted peacefully. And every once in awhile, we demonstrated our affection for each other with cuddles and grooming.

My mom has learned new things about me in the last two weeks. It turns out that she thought I was the one who ate most of the dry food- nope, not me. I'm not really a big eater, more of a grazer! I also have refused to eat any food out of Sally's food bowl- I am still a little confused about where she is and I want to make sure her food is still here for her.

Speaking of eating, Sally always helped me finish my wet food- I just can't eat that much! When I was eating my special wet food the other day, I looked for Sally and called out to her to come share my food, but she was nowhere to be found. I looked for her everywhere, even under the ottoman, but couldn't find her.

Sally and Sophie were here to greet me when I first joined the family. I've never been the only cat. Luckily, I have my sister Sophie to help me through- she lets me follow her around, groom her, cuddle with her, and sleep next to her. 

Sally was a great big sister. Like I said before, she kept all of my favorite spots warm and she was a calming presence in our home. I miss her so much. Take care sweet Sally and rest in peace.

Love, Lucy

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/310180/diary/Missing_you/463021">Tail of devotion for sweet Sally</a>]]></content:encoded>
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