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<title>One Cat-tastrophy after another by Zack</title>
<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack</link>
<description>Catster diary for the cat Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009)</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2013 by Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) &amp; Catster</copyright>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 04:52:42 PDT</pubDate>
<generator>Catster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.catster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>The First Year Without Zack</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/672111</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 16 May 2010 13:04:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/672111</guid>
		<description>I was watching mom as she answered some mail this morning.  She kept wiping her eyes.  I know she mi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was watching mom as she answered some mail this morning.  She kept wiping her eyes.  I know she misses me everyday, but it is especially hard today, the anniversary of the day I left.

I want to thank my lovely fiancée, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, for the wonderful Angel Star and the special rainbow picture she made for me.  Kiwi, you are my light to lead me back home.  Stay well and healthy, my dear little love.

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764"><b>Wally</b></a>, thank you for the beautiful Angel Wings.  To me, you are "The Prince of Angels", no greater friend, or more caring Angel exists.

I also want to send a message to my best friend, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/902054"><b>Chef Rooster</b></a>.  Watch for my lizard today, Cheffy, he will be coming for a visit.

And my dear little pal, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/914008"><b>soc</b></a> is celebrating his 14th Birthday today.  Many Birthday Purrs to you!

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/610165"><b>Sir Sonny Bono's</b></a> two beautiful sisfurs are having their 2nd Birthday today also.  Happy Birthday <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/989184"><b>Presley</b></a>, and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/989274"><b>Paris</b></a>!

More sisters birthdays...my pal, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/707783"><b>Hooch's</b></a> sister, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/707859"><b>Callista (Baby G)</b></a> is ten today.  You don't look a day over five, Baby G.
And his sister, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/707822"><b>Princess</b></a>, is 8 years old.  Hope you both have fun days.

I was remembering something from my kittenhood...
I used to hide when mom came around the corner, then I would dash out and bite her ankles. (sorry about that now, mom)
But then the game would ensue.  Mom would say "Zack! I'm gonna GET YOU!", and we would chase each other, I would run, then she would stop and I would chase her.
That was a lot of fun, aside from the bleeding ankles, I mean. hehehe.

I want to thank all my friends who helped mom get through this day, a year ago.  I never sent proper thank you's, time gets away.
Enjoy every day, my friends.  Friendship and Love, ahhh, is their anything better...except maybe tuna?

Love and purrs always,
>^,,^< Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>About Claire and Lucy</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/671327</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 May 2010 22:22:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/671327</guid>
		<description>I promised an update on Claire, but I don't have a lot of news tonight.
Claire had her creatine tes ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I promised an update on Claire, but I don't have a lot of news tonight.
Claire had her creatine tested for kidney values, and liver enzymes checked, and one was out of range.  She was given a saline bag to get fluids tonight, and then she will have a sonogram in the morning.  The vet suspected liver failure, but wants to rule out liver cancer.  This is not good news by any means, but we don't have the whole picture yet.
Thank you all for purring for her.  Mom let her start a diary to make it easier to follow her progress.

Lucy hasn't had time to write so I said I would post an update for her too.
She ate a good breakfast, a whole can of Fancy Feast, and a whole 3 oz can of Purina ProPlan tonight.  She seems to find it easier to eat since the tumor burst.  The vet explained that this was part of the tumor actually dying because it grew faster than the blood supply feeding it.  The rest of the tumor is farther back and while it distorts her beautiful face, it does make it easier for her to chew.  They are letting Lucy tell them when the time is right.  She is active and alert, and that red-head spirit is not giving up yet.

In just a few days it will be the first anniversary of my crossing to the Bridge.  I have been staying close to my family and I have seems lots of tears falling lately.  Mom says she is sorry she has not been on-line more.  There is just too much to deal with right now.

Thank you for being here for us in these tough times.  That is the measure of true friends.  They are there when you need them.
I send love and purrs to all, especially my love, Kiwi.

Goodnight purrs,
>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Sister Needs Purrs</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/671151</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 May 2010 21:32:06 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/671151</guid>
		<description>My friends, this is an urgent request.
My sister Claire is needing purrs and prayers tonight.  She  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My friends, this is an urgent request.
My sister Claire is needing purrs and prayers tonight.  She hasn't been feeling well for a while, and the vet thought it was her thyroid, and told mom to weigh her, and then they would check her again.  He has been out of town and mom has been wrapped up with Lucy, and tonight Claire won't eat or drink and she cries when mom moves her.
Mom is very scared because this is how Riley acted before he died.  It came on slowly, almost unnoticeable.  All of the sudden she is really ill.
Please purr hard that whatever it is, it can be corrected with antibiotics or medicine.  Claire does not have a diary, so I will update tomorrow after the vet sees her.

Thank you all~
Loving purrs,
>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Diary Pick, Thanks</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/645116</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 27 Dec 2009 21:28:46 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/645116</guid>
		<description>I did not know I was a diary pick today, until several friends wrote.  
We did not come to Catster  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I did not know I was a diary pick today, until several friends wrote.  
We did not come to Catster until very late.  It was an unexpected honor, which I am very grateful for.
I read all those kind and wise comments to mom.  She cried a lot of tears, but through them she kept telling me how wonderful all our friends are, here on Catster.
We are one big family, and together we will get through the sad and hard times, and celebrate together through the happy times.
Thank you all for everything you wrote.

More Loving Purrs,  >^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Holiday Happiness?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/644811</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 Dec 2009 09:41:45 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/644811</guid>
		<description>I've been asked to send a message from my family.
I've always been the head of the household, so no ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been asked to send a message from my family.
I've always been the head of the household, so now I get to hold that position from Heaven.

A month ago, we had plans of a wonderful Christmas.  We had hopes for a bright New Year.  We had many, many friends to visit and wish Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays.
But things weren't merry, and nothing seemed bright.
Riley's sudden death has affected everyone here more than mom can get past, right now.
Sadness, mixed with guilt, and the tormented wish that he was not gone, has kept momma from doing all the things she wanted to do for everyone here, this holiday.
We would like to ask your forgiveness, and ask if it would be okay that some Christmas cards arrive late, and some rosettes still send wishes, however tardy. There are also so many pmails, not answered yet, but we promise to get to each one.
Hannah is passionate to complete her angel diary stroll by the end of the year, and she feels terrible that she has let many down already, but wants to see it to completion, and hopes that everyone will understand.
More unhappiness is certain here.  Harry is hanging on, but his days are drawing to a close.  He has lived far past his predictions, and that is a blessing, but he is slipping away.
Jack has become feeble, he is an old man, nearing 16.  We fear he will not be with us a whole lot longer either.
Lucy has developed a lesion in her mouth.  It was treated with antibiotics, but is not responding, and she will most likely require surgery very soon.

We hesitated to write all this, not wanting to dampen the spirit of the holidays, but we felt we had to explain our absence.  Mostly we want everyone to know that you all mean so much to my family, despite that it might seem we are being distant.  Please accept our apologies, and our deepest love.
We all sincerely wish for everyone, the best, and brightest, New Year, filled with hope.

With Loving Purrs,
>^,,^< Zack and the Texas Wild Bunch]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>More Kitten News</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/643632</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:05:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/643632</guid>
		<description>The tiny tabby is now being called Riza. (thanks Normy!) Great suggestion.
This is for Ri-ley and Z ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The tiny tabby is now being called Riza. (thanks Normy!) Great suggestion.
This is for Ri-ley and Za-ck.  We still have her here, but that may be drawing to a close.
Mom has stressed and worried about whether or not to give her up.  She says she needs a push, one way or the other, so she knows she is doing the right thing.  Well, Saturday, she and dad took Riza up to be weighed again, and to show our vet how much tamer she has become.  She gained a little, weighing 1.7 pounds now, from 1.5.  The vet was out, but his wife was there, so momma carried her into her office to show off. (she is really precious)
The vet's wife said her oldest daughter (married), had lost her very loved cat of 12 years, just a couple months ago, and was still greiving.  She asked mom if the kitten needed a home.
Mom hestitated, and the lady immediately picked up on it and said, "If you change your mind..."  Well, mom thought about it all weekend.  They can give her everything she could ever want.  But more important, she could give this girl the love she needs right now.  This is going to be an exceptional kitten, she is smart, sweet, playful, and will make someone a wonderful lifelong companion.  The vet's wife said she would question her daughter about whether or not she was ready.  So mom is going to offer her to this family.  This is a hard thing to do...
But If they say no, then maybe she was meant for us, all along. 
Thank you all for following Riza's story, and for all the helpful comments.
Going to go and sprinkle some angel dust on my fiancee now.  In Maine, that will be like sparkly snow!  If I don't get back here again, for a bit, have a wonderful and very merry Christmas.

Love & purrs,
>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kitten Dilemma~Advice Needed</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/642259</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:29:41 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/642259</guid>
		<description>Purrs, my friends.
The baby kitten is doing great.  She passed her FIV and FeLV tests with flying c ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Purrs, my friends.
The baby kitten is doing great.  She passed her FIV and FeLV tests with flying colors.
Her little belly is as round as an orange.  No more hissy fits, only purrs.  In fact, she makes mom laugh because when mom baby talks to her, she plops over on her back and wiggles her legs.  It's so funny.  And when she sees the food dish coming, she stands up on her back legs, and waves her paws in the air.
So, the dilemma.  You see, it's Tuesday, and she is still here.  She should have gone to the shelter on Monday.  They weren't ready to say goodbye yet.
Now who would have guessed this might have happened? 
The question is whether or not to listen to their hearts or their heads.
Mom knows that if she lets her go, she will always regret it.  But she also knows that many people could give her a home with better conditions.
So they are going to keep her until the next drop-off date for the shelter, which is Friday.
That gives them a little more time with her, and more time to search their hearts.
We would like to have our friends opinion, pro or con, it will be valuable in making a decision.  Thanks for reading today.

Angel purrs and lots of love,
>^,,^< Zack and Family]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Attic Kitten</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/641471</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:23:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/641471</guid>
		<description>Just wanted to let everyone know, the little attic kitten is doing well.
She still hisses and tremb ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Just wanted to let everyone know, the little attic kitten is doing well.
She still hisses and trembles, but "Hiss-Hiss-Spit" has been replaced with "Hiss-Mew-Purr".
She spent a long time last night, inside daddy's jacket.  If I didn't know any better, I would say he is sweet on her.  She is going to stay through the weekend for more rehabilitation, and should go to the shelter (a very nice no kill), on Monday.
I heard momma praying for enough extra work this weekend to keep her, but that probably won't happen,  If Riley were here right now, he would be cuddling her, and letting her "nurse". 

Flying off now.  Kisses to my girl, Kiwi, and love to my friends.

>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kittens In The Attic</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/641132</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 9 Dec 2009 10:38:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/641132</guid>
		<description>There is a sad story here, but we hope it will have a happy ending.

Next door, we have some very  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ There is a sad story here, but we hope it will have a happy ending.

Next door, we have some very nice neighbors, but they are not particularly fond of cats.
There are very few cats that roam freely in our neighborhood because we are near two busy roads, and also have a field that once was home to a coyote.  They mowed the field, and we haven't see him around lately, so he might have moved on.

Better get your coffee, this may take a few minutes...:)

Anyway, someone's cat...nobody is claiming her...got into their attic and had kittens.  We think five or six of them, and they are probably about six weeks old now.  The family heard noises, and thought it was rats.  Thank goodness they did not put out poison!
Mom and dad did not know anything about this until the man told mom, yesterday, that he had trapped the momma cat, and two of her kittens, and taken them to a car wash a mile away, and put them out!  Mom almost freaked when she heard this.  She called daddy, and they raced up there, but no cats were found.  A little later, back at home, they heard a cat crying and calling to her kittens.  The mom-cat was on the neighbor's roof.  She had come back, searching for her remaining babies.  Mom about cried.  They went next door, and asked if daddy could search the attic for the babies.  He crawled around and around, but only found one kitten.  It hissed and spit, but he handed it to mom, and told her to do an "Ellie Mae" on it.  This is a private joke between them.  Ellie Mae was the girl on the old TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies", who always was surrounded by her wild "critters".  Mom always has a calming effect on stressed animals, and this little one calmed right down and snuggled against her.  We think it is a girl, but are not certain.  It is a little brown tabby.

Daddy called the shelter they volunteer with, and they said their quarantine area was full, but there would be a spot on Friday, for this little one.  So Tiny Tabby will stay here for a few days.  We wish it would be forever, but we cannot take in another, right now.
The mother cat has disappeared, and we hope she has those other two babies with her.
The weather is cool, but not cold, and today it is cloudy, but not raining.
We wish everyone would realize how special each animal life is, and they are not disposable items to be thrown out, like trash.
My family will be purring for the mom and missing babies, and for our little TT border to get a loving home.

Love & Purrs,
>^,,^< Zack & family

Here are two pictures:

<a id="img7893951263" +  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://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u312/catsterkittypurrson/Family%20Pages%20stuff/TinyTabby1.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img7893951263').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u312/' + 'catsterkittypurrson/Family%20Pages%20stu' + 'ff/TinyTabby1.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'PICTURE ONE'">PICTURE ONE</a>

<a id="img5971577043" +  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://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u312/catsterkittypurrson/Family%20Pages%20stuff/TinyTabby2.jpg" onmouseover="document.getElementById('img5971577043').innerHTML = String.fromCharCode(60) + 'img src=http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u312/' + 'catsterkittypurrson/Family%20Pages%20stu' + 'ff/TinyTabby2.jpg' + String.fromCharCode(62) + String.fromCharCode(60) + 'BR/' + String.fromCharCode(62) + 'PICTURE TWO'">PICTURE TWO</a>]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'll Be There For You Riley</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/640561</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 6 Dec 2009 19:24:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/640561</guid>
		<description>Tomorrow will be a heartbreaking one for my family.
My brother, Riley will be joining me at the Rai ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tomorrow will be a heartbreaking one for my family.
My brother, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/64992"><b>Riley</b></a> will be joining me at the Rainbow Bridge.
I love you, Riley, and I will be beside you all the way, and carry you on my strong wings, until you get your own.
Brothers forever.

Love always, >^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Heart &amp;#9829</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/634842</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 07:47:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/634842</guid>
		<description>It's been a while, my friends.
I was watching my momma as she cleaned yesterday.  While cleaning ou ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's been a while, my friends.
I was watching my momma as she cleaned yesterday.  While cleaning out a drawer, she came upon a heart.
A small stainless steel heart.
She recognized it instantly as an old ID Tag from one of my collars.  The tag was so worn from many years of wear, that the writing was almost completely rubbed off.  Faintly on the back, were the initials ZKTM.  That stood for Zack Kato Turbo Monster.  My full kitten name. *grin*
You will have to read back to my very first diary, for an explanation of that. :)
As she caressed it with her fingers, I saw tears fall.  I hovered closer, hoping she would feel my presence grow stronger.
I miss being with my family as much as they miss me.  I miss life. But I know I will be always loved and always remembered.
I wanted to give everyone of you a reminder too, to love and never forget your angel friends, and your angel brothers and sisters.  
We are here waiting.

Loving purrs,
>^,,^< Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>&amp;#9829; Happy Birthday Kiwi &amp;#9829;</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/616419</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:28:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/616419</guid>
		<description>Just a fast love letter to my girl, Kiwi, who turned 13 today!
I wish you a wonderful day, my littl ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Just a fast love letter to my girl, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, who turned 13 today!
I wish you a wonderful day, my little love.  
I wish I could have mailed myself to you, all tied up with ribbons, to tell you how much I love and miss you.  But instead, watch for a card, and a little gift following a day later.  I hope they arrive today, in time, but Maine is a long way from Texas, and mom was late in getting to the post office.
Have a fun day sweetheart, with your pawsome parents and loving family.
Know that you are in my thoughts always.

Love and kitty kisses,
Your >^,,^<  Zacky &#9829;

P.S. an apology to my friends for our families silence and absence this summer.  We are getting our act together, and should be back full-time soon.
XO~Z]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My First Bridge Birthday</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/614069</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:00:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/614069</guid>
		<description>Hello my dear friends, and my lovely fianc&Atilde;&copy;e Kiwi.

Please forgive this old boy for being so quie ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my dear friends, and my lovely fiancée Kiwi.

Please forgive this old boy for being so quiet this summer.  The Texas heat is pretty unbearable, and my typist has gotten very behind.

Tomorrow, August the 15th, would have been my fourteenth birthday.  Some of you may still have it down as the 18th, but that was an error.  (Mom found my original vet records)

Please do not make a fuss over me.  I was so honored by all the kindness during my long illness, and after...no more is necessary.
My mom is still pretty sad.  Does any angel cat know any funny tricks or jokes to make her laugh?  
I have tried tickling her in her sleep, with my wing tips, but she only screamed because she thought it was a bug on her!  That didn't work. :(
I thought, don't worry mom, I won't let any bugs get to you.  Remember, I am Zack, the Bug Slayer. 

I thought, in honor of my birthday, I would tell you how >^,,^< became part of my name.  You see, long before I was born, long before computers, and email and emoticons were around, people used to write letters. Remember those?
My mom has always been a cat person.  When she would write a letter, or send a card, she would draw the little cat face next to her cats names.  Yeah, she signed the cat's names too.  Silly lady.  When visitors came over, they always remembered me.  I was a people cat, very social.  I greeted everyone, and never met a human I didn't like.  (possible exception, the white coat guy)  Anyway, people would even ask on the phone, "How's Zack?"  So when mom sent a letter, or thank you note, she always added my name, and the >^,,^< cat face.  When we joined Catster, many years later, it seemed only right to put it there too.  So now you know!  

Purrs to you, my friends.  I love you all deeply and sincerely.

>^,,^<  Zack, the Birthday Boy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Bug Story</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/597723</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 18:44:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/597723</guid>
		<description>Hello my friends,

Mom promised a story tonight, so I am going to hang close to make sure she gets ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my friends,

Mom promised a story tonight, so I am going to hang close to make sure she gets the details right.~Love, >^,,^< Zack

<i><b>The Bug Story</b></i>

<i>This happened many years ago, when Zack was about five.  My husband had taken a part time job on Saturday nights, as a scorekeeper at a local car race track.  Secretly I thought it was just his clever way of getting "a boy's night out".  He would be gone from early evening until nearly one am.  Not being used to being alone at night, I used to get jittery.  This one night I had been watching TV, when I heard a noise in the kitchen.  Now I have to break away, and tell you a side part.
In our coastal town, we have thousands of Palm trees.  While interesting and statuesque, they are home to the infamous "palmetto bug", or the large Texas coachroach.  (shudders just typing it)  Now, it is not a matter of how clean you home is...if it rains, these big bugs come inside.  I have been deathly afraid/repulsed by them since I was a child.  If I see one, my husband says my shriek can be heard to the next street. (probably so)
So it has always been my husbands responsibility to be the "bug slayer".

Well, back to that night.  Yes, you guessed it.  The noise was a big bug.  BIG.
I was utterly terrified, and had no idea what to do!  If David had been home, he would have rolled his eyes at me, lectured me again, for the hundredth time, on how silly I was being, and how much I was overreacting.  But he wasn't home...
So I took a chance.  "Zacky!" I yelled.  Bug!  Bug!  He came at a mad dash.  I pointed to the kitchen.  "You have to help mom, Zack", I said.  He looked at me, and I could see he totally understood what he had to do.  He ran into the kitchen, (I was standing a full room away, such a chicken) and I could hear him jump onto the counter, then leap at the wall.   Zack knocked the bug to the floor, and put his front paw on him.  I told him "GOOD BOY", and he blinked at me, and held his prize.  Now it was still almost an hour before my husband was due home.  What was I going to do now?  So I had another talk with Zack.  "Zacky...listen carefully to mommy".  "You can't let that bug go until daddy comes home, understand?".  He looked at me, and blinked again.  Now, I tell you this in total honesty.  That cat laid there on the kitchen floor, for an hour and fifteen minutes, with his paw on that bug.  Normally he greets his daddy at the door, but this night, when David came home, he stayed in the kitchen, completeing his mission.

That is the kind of cat that I was blessed to share my life with for 13 1/2 years.
Zack...you were a once in a lifetime friend, and I will love you forever~</i>

~~~~note:  This story was read and approved by Zack ~~~~]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>One Month Today</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/597323</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:47:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/597323</guid>
		<description>A month has passed, since I left this earth.  
All my angel friends have been so kind...helping me  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A month has passed, since I left this earth.  
All my angel friends have been so kind...helping me learn, showing me the ropes.  I have started to visit my friends and family, and the wings are really a nice way to travel.  I am glad now, that I never ate a bird.  

I see my family still grieving for me, though, and I wish I could purr away all the sadness.
Time will help to heal them.

Harry is doing somewhat better.  He is not out of danger yet, but we think he is strong enough to pull through.
Dalton is approaching a year, and growing so fast now.  His personality is becoming more like mine all the time.  I am coaching him, you see. *smiles*
Hannah just got some new pictures added.  They are pretty funny.  She is the ham of the house, she and Lily.

Well, that's all for right now, but I am going to tell you a story tomorrow, so stop back if you can.

Please remember how much you all mean to me, and how lucky I feel to have had so many friends at my side, when I needed them.  You all are undoubtedly the BEST.

Purrs, >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>To My Beloved Zack~</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/592329</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 May 2009 19:05:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/592329</guid>
		<description>Tomorrow is two weeks since you have left us.  I lit your candle tonight, and said that two minutes  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tomorrow is two weeks since you have left us.  I lit your candle tonight, and said that two minutes would have been too long...  
I miss you so much sweetheart.  I owe all your friends so much, but I can't bring myself to write in your voice.  All that you were, I put into your Catster life.  That was you, not me, and you are gone.  You need to help me.  You need to help me stop crying every time I go to your page.  You need to send those angel vibes down to me, so I can feel that you are safe.
I long to feel you jump into bed beside us.  I even miss those sharp claws as you knead my arm.  For so many years we have slept at the opposite end of the bed, so you could jump down easily if you had a seizure.  I still can't sleep at the other end now. Your place is still there.
Hannah has been so sweet.  She seems to understand my sadness.  She licks my tears away, and last night, she pressed her cheek against mine, and purred almost silently, so I could fall asleep.  When I turned over, she climbed over me, and placed her face against mine again. We all miss you being here, Zack.

Tomorrow, my gray man, prayers for you, tears for you, and hopefully some smiles for you, as I remember all the years together.

Always know that momma loves you..always...always.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Honors and Halos</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/591520</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 26 May 2009 18:58:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/591520</guid>
		<description>Hello my friends,
I've been pretty quiet here, just getting adjusted to these wings.  They can be a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my friends,
I've been pretty quiet here, just getting adjusted to these wings.  They can be a bit tricky, but I've got lessons lined up with some of my angel pals.
This halo is a bit difficult too.  I run into stuff with it.  I may have to ask for the collaspable version, you know, the ones that fold back like a car's hood ornament.
*smiles at the thought of his halo as a hood ornament*

But the reason I am writing tonight is because I had the pleasure and honor of being selected as a Diary Pick today.  It's the first time for me!
It was very nice.  I got pawmail congratulations from Wally, Hazel Lucy, Buddie, Peaches, and soc.  Thank you, dear friends.  
I received comments on my diary from soc, Chef Rooster, Maggie Moo, Aldo, Little Bit, Spunky, and Captain.  You guys couldn't find anything more interesting to read?  :)
Thank you also, for the support.  Your comments really helped mom feel better.  I see her crying every time she visits my page.  I am going to ask the experienced angels how to send sweet dreams,

The goodies didn't stop there!
Wally sent a heart with the Diary Central choices for today.  There I am!
Hooch and his family sent a refreshing grape drink, and Edgar, Emily, Gabby and Lucy sent a heart also.  Kittanna sent a rainbow, and Karma Kitty and her family sent a gleaming emerald.
All these rosettes came with wonderful messages of love. and congratulations. 
My friends Mouse, and Mipo sent a mouse and a lady bug!  I bet I can catch those now.  Thanks guys!  That was very thoughtful.
 
Plus, my new angel friend, Jackson (his real name is All The Ladies Fancy), sent an Earth. 
He went to the Bridge on May 4th, just about a week and a half before me.  We are newbies together.  I also met a lovely gal named Snow White.  She also became an angel just days before me.  She has the prettiest blue eyes you will ever see.  Her momma is grieving like mine is.  Maybe you could send her some love. 
Two other new angel friends I would like to mention, are  Scrappy, and Harvey.  Harvey left for Heaven the first week of May.  (Harvey, sorry I do not know the exact date).  He was dearly loved by his family.  Scrappy and I joined paws, as we crossed the Bridge the same day.
I hope their families are starting to heal.

Well...enough of my rambling.  I started this out to say "Thank You" to everypaw who congratulated me.  

Until we meet again~

Love and purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>An Angel's Thoughts</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/590373</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 May 2009 13:08:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/590373</guid>
		<description>I haven't quite gotten the hang of this Angel business...it's very different.  It's kind of like bei ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I haven't quite gotten the hang of this Angel business...it's very different.  It's kind of like being in a dream.
I think momma wants to try to remember me with joy, instead of tears.  She changed my wallpaper to a happier one.
Some cats sent lovely poems, and dad printed them out and put them in my burial box.  Mom almost put in my favorite toy when I was a kitten, but then she decided she had to keep that.
I told her to give it to Dalton or Fisher.  They are the youngest, and would enjoy it.  It's a fleece man, that I called "wrestle buddy", because I used to grab it, and rabbit kick it to pieces.  Mom said she must have washed it a hundred times over the years.  It still looks great.

That's all I have time for now, but I will try to write more soon.  You'd be surprised how busy it is here.  :)

Harry is going to get the computer first, for his get well thank you's, then I will begin.  I love you all for caring for this old gray cat, so much, and for helping my family get through this hard time.

Soft purrs and much love,
Angel >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Hole In My World</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/589646</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 19 May 2009 19:18:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/589646</guid>
		<description>How much space can one little gray cat take up in a house?
Not much, in a house so full of cats as  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ How much space can one little gray cat take up in a house?
Not much, in a house so full of cats as ours.

....but it seems enormous, and empty without him.

How much space can one little kitty take up in your heart, when it is promised to so many?

....enough so that it feels shattered into a million pieces when he is gone.

How much can the loss of one cat affect your world?

....So much that it causes a hole in my world, a black hole trying to collapse in all the joy, all the hope, into a pit of sorrow.  

I love you my Zacky, and I miss you so desperately.
Please wait for me, and know that each remaining day of my life, I will look forward to seeing you again.

With love, always and forever,
Mom]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Those Final Hours</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588775</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 16 May 2009 19:08:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588775</guid>
		<description>Last night, Zack was restless.  He kept following me to the refrigerator, and when I would offer som ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last night, Zack was restless.  He kept following me to the refrigerator, and when I would offer something, he would just lay down.  His face looked thinner than ever, and his eyes more sunken.  He was also more wobbly than he had been.
I shared my fears with my husband, and we both watched him very closely.

This morning, I purposely let David get up first because I was afraid I might find Zack gone, but there he was, sitting up.  My heart filled with hope.

Later this morning we were gone, visiting Harry at the vet's.  It took longer than we expected because they had lots of instructions because he was being released from the hospital, after lunch.

When we walked in, there was a commotion in the kitchen.
Several cats were gathered around Zack, who was lying flat on the floor, with his whole body twitching.  We instantly realized he was having a seizure.  But this one was different than his usual ones, which were very violent.  David looked at his pupils, and saw they were very dilated.  We carefully moved him to a cat bed away from the others.  I lay beside him, and cradled his head in my hands, and talked to him.  The seizure seemed to go on forever.  His normal ones lasted less than a minute, but this one was more like twenty minutes.  I think it was multiple ones because at times it would stop, and I would catch a glimpse of recognition in his eyes, and when I told him I loved him, he partly closed his eyes, as if he understood. 

Finally the twitching stopped, and he began to take slow breaths and I knew he was passing away.  All I could do was keep telling him how much we loved him, and telling him he could let go.  He fought to stay alive.  He did not want to go.  I told him he did not have to stay for me, that I would be okay.  I am far from okay, but I didn't want him to try to hang on.  An hour passed, and slowly his breaths came further apart.  Each time I thought one was his last, he would gasp again, and I would burst into tears again.  He didn't want to die, and he tried so valiantly to live.  At one point I would have traded my life for his.
 
I prayed to God to be merciful, and take him to Heaven.  Finally that prayer was answered.  I held him to my chest for a long, long time.  So long that his tiny, bony body started to grow cold.  My husband had to come and take him from my arms.  I didn't want to put him down. 
I can't believe that he is gone.  I look for him in every room.  I stared at his litter pan, and cat bed.  I started to wash his bowls.  It is an unreal feeling.

I will never stop loving my little gray cat.  I will never stop missing him either.
We feel honored to have shared nearly fourteen years with him.

In the coming weeks, I will probably share some stories, and memories with you.
It will take me a long time to write to everyone who has been part of Zack's Catster life, and properly thank you all, but I will.  For him. 
 
We love you Zacky, Rest in Peace my love.

~Momma and Daddy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Angels Came....</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588685</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 16 May 2009 13:29:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588685</guid>
		<description>My precious, my beloved boy is gone.  
He died quietly beside me a short while ago.  
I will write ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My precious, my beloved boy is gone.  
He died quietly beside me a short while ago.  
I will write more soon, but for now I just want to send my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been a blessing during these past painful months.  I know Zack felt every purr and heard every prayer, as did I.  
With so much love and gratitude,
Teri and David and my beloved angel  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Had A Dream</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588557</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 May 2009 21:39:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588557</guid>
		<description>I had a dream, while I was laying on the cool concrete of the garage floor.
I like it just in front ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had a dream, while I was laying on the cool concrete of the garage floor.
I like it just in front of the refrigerator because I can feel the cool air blow under it.
In the dream, I was a young cat, and I was watching a lizard bloat out it's ruby throat to attract an insect.  It was changing from green to brown, to match the bark of the tree.  I felt so alive.

I think I will not be here much longer.  Mom had a dream too, and woke up with a terrible start.  In her dream, I was gone.

She can tell that I don't want to give up.  I still walk around on my unsteady legs, and look at table tops with hopes of jumping there, but I can't do that anymore.

I stumble, and I pick myself up with such dignity that it makes her cry.
I can see her heart is breaking. I know that if she and daddy could make me well and whole again, they would.

I am not afraid of dying.  Everything that ever lived, dies someday.  I just wish I could put that "someday" off longer...so much longer.

I know that there will be friends who will grieve.  Please don't remember me as a sick old cat.  Remember me as I will remember myself...intently watching that lizard with the heart of a kitten.

I love all my wonderful Catster friends, and most of all you, Kiwi.
I had plans to marry you someday.  We are running out of "somedays" now.

I am going to rest now.  Each time mom kisses me goodnight, we both know it might be our last goodnight's to each other.

But keep up those purrs, and I will do my best...

A loving goodnight to all,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm Hungry Again~Yay!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588072</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 14 May 2009 11:15:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/588072</guid>
		<description>Purrs my friends,
I'd jump up and down, but my balance is a little rotten these days, so you'll hav ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Purrs my friends,
I'd jump up and down, but my balance is a little rotten these days, so you'll have to settle for a high-five's paw!

Someone must have sent some magic angel dust to help me feel better.
I am back to eating again!  Last night I ate a little, and today I had some canned food and some turkey lunch meat, and even a little vanilla ice cream!

The vet said maybe the infection in my eye, (it's actually in the tear duct) may have made me feel bad, and that the puss (sorry to be graphic) is nature's way of the body pushing the infection out.  I have some ointment for it, but it is already better than it was yesterday.

So I think those Wings can stay in lay-a-way, a little longer, Purrrrrrr

Lately I have been keeping company with the dog, Lizzy. She lets we share her water bowl, but she looked concerned when I stuck my head in her food dish.  I took a few sniffs, and walked away.  Not interesting.

She and I both like the turkey lunch meat though.  Mom hides Lizzy's pills in it.  So now we both stand side by side, and get little bites.
Lizzy chews faster.  I told her not to bolt her food.  That dog can demolish a rib bone in under a minute.

Well, Mom is pointing at the clock.  She has to go earn some money to pay for this expensive family, MOL.  Thanks for purring for me and my brother Harry, and Stinky too.  The winds died down today, and he is feeling chipper, and not coughing as much.

Love and purrs,
>^,,^<  Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Not Doing So Well</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/587929</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 13 May 2009 19:15:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/587929</guid>
		<description>Hello my friends, 
And kisses to my beautiful fiancee Kiwi.
I'm not feeling so great tonight.  Ano ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my friends, 
And kisses to my beautiful fiancee Kiwi.
I'm not feeling so great tonight.  Another complication has come up.
My eye is infected.  It is weeping and draining an awful, icky mess.  Daddy cleaned it twice, but it comes back.  Nothing like this has ever happened.
They will have to get me some medicine for it.
Momma is a mess.  My brother Harry is in the hospital.  He has a diary now.  I am going to try to post a link, hope it works.

http://www.catster.com/cats/64982/diary

I did manage to eat a little.  I had a few bites of tuna and shrimp cat food, and a small piece of turkey lunch meat.  That is more than yesterday, so maybe I can hang on a while longer.  I will try.

I am going to go and answer some mail now.
I continue to marvel at the depth of love on Catster.  
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for everything.

Loving purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Purrs Needed~A Quick Note From Zack's Mom</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/587754</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 13 May 2009 06:19:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/587754</guid>
		<description>Everything changes in a instant.
Zack was eating like a horse, as many as six meals a day, plus his ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Everything changes in a instant.
Zack was eating like a horse, as many as six meals a day, plus his broth.
The last two days Zack has refused to eat, except to take a few bites and then look at me with those sunken, forlorn eyes.  He walks around the house, and calls out, not in pain, but it sounds like despair.  It is tearing my heart out, and I am afraid I can't hold off the decision much longer.
Then, to add to all this, Harry is very sick.  He has chronic Stomatitis, (gum infections) and we thought he was having another flare up.  I re-newed his prescription yesterday, and we started him on it, but this morning he is lethargic, and won't eat or drink.
I was supposed to go to work with my husband, but the vet agreed to work Harry in, so David said he will drop me there, and do the job alone.
I am terribly afraid that I may be losing both my boys.
Typing this through tears, so please forgive mistakes.

In all the thirty-plus years that I have rescued cats, I have never had so many sick babies.  I blame myself...I must be neglecting something, doing something wrong.  Beating myself up won't help though, but purrs will.
Please pray and purr for my Zack and Harry.  Stinky too, has been having fits with all our wind and pollen making his asthma worse.
I have to go now, but I will up-date this after I return from the vet.

Much love and gratefulness,
Teri]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Take Time To Smell The Flowers</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/585091</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 May 2009 07:56:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/585091</guid>
		<description>Spring was barely here, and now Summer is already trying to crowd it out!  It's in the mid 80's here ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Spring was barely here, and now Summer is already trying to crowd it out!  It's in the mid 80's here, and the birds are nesting and singing everywhere.
I can hear them from the open window in the office.  From the bedroom windows, which are lower, we can see a Cardinal mom hopping on the ground.  Her bright mate sits higher, in the branches of a Nandina plant.  It has berries that they must like.  

I've always loved to smell the blooms.  Kiwi and I were talking about putting on our harnesses, and enjoying the fresh air on our decks.  The other day, mom scooped me up in her arms, and carried me outside.  We spent time at each hanging basket, with me sniffing the leaves.  Then she carried me to the ground cover.  The jasmine has white blooms that are very sweet, but it's been too dry for them to flower, but I love to smell the foliage.

I can barely imagine what the flowers at the Bridge must smell like.  I will keep that thought in the back of my mind though, because I am nearly to my second goal, which is Mother's Day.  If I make Mother's Day, and I feel sure I will, then Dad's birthday, in June, will be my next big goal.

Tomorrow is a sad anniversary for our mom.  It is the day that Grandma left for Heaven, way back in 1998.  I remember how much grandma loved me too, and always brought us Pounce treats when she came over to visit.  At Thanksgiving, I would sit by her side for the entire meal.  I would pat her leg gently (not using claws) to let her know I wanted a bite of what she was eating.  I used to be a terrible mooch.  Well, I still am, I just don't have much success at it, these days.  :)

Thanks to all of my treasured friends, for their notes and rosettes.  I am living on Catster love!
I am in the process of catching up on those wonderful thank you's, and I have a line of siblings waiting to use the computer next!  Birthday month is finally over with fourteen family birthdays in April!  Whew!

I hope you all have a wonderful week.  Purr on, my friends, purr on!

Love,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Grumpinator</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/583664</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 05:45:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/583664</guid>
		<description>Hello my beloved friends, and so sorry for the long silence.

My momma messed up her hands, doing  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my beloved friends, and so sorry for the long silence.

My momma messed up her hands, doing too much spring yard work, and then the computer keyboard finally broke all the way.  Late last night, daddy installed a new one, and momma is trying to type with her sore hands, so I might have to catch you up in a couple small entries.

Mom added a photo.  It is hard to take one of all of me now, because there's not much of me left.  I am very bony, and getting a little unstable on my feet.  I don't attempt the desk jump anymore, mom gets up, and lets me use her chair.  Mostly I sleep, eat, and sleep.  I have gotten grumpy with my cat siblings, and have growled at them, so only a few cats visit me now, Charlie, Harry, and sometimes Hannah.  I don't like them crowding me.

The tumor is larger, easily felt, and seen, because I am so thin.  Mom talked with the vet, about any possibility of surgery, and he said he did not think I would survive it, and advised against it.  Mom and dad want to give me every chance, but not put me through misery,  I am not in pain.  I am still very loving with mom.  Also very insistent that she spend time with me.  When she tries to get on the computer, I stand in front of her, or I lay down on her arm, or across her hand.  I walk on her keyboard too.  I think that is partly what ruined the old one, but I'm forgiven already.

I have gotten behind on my thank you's again.  I have such loyal and loving friends, and I will be in touch, very soon.

Thank you for the purrs, they are powerful medicine.

Much love and many purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Easter Rabbit, or Energizer Bunny?</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/578765</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Apr 2009 22:33:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/578765</guid>
		<description>Hello my friends.  
It's after midnight here, so officially not Easter anymore.  My parents were go ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my friends.  
It's after midnight here, so officially not Easter anymore.  My parents were gone today, because they received a last minute invitation to visit Grandma, and our Uncle Marc, and momma's two nieces, home from school.  It was a rare opportunity for them, so they couldn't pass it up.

Hannah was upset, because she wanted to send out lots more rosettes than she had time for.  I missed sending many of you one also.
My most humble apologies for that.

I did want to say that I proudly have made my Easter goal!
I'm still here, and still purrin'!
Mom is starting to call me her Energizer bunnycat, because I keep going and going... :)  
I feel pretty good too.  No pain, except for the usual old cat complaints.  I am still eating soft canned food, with no more bleeding from my mouth.  I get about six small meals a day, to spread my calories out.

Yesterday, I did have one mis-hap.  I decided to jump to the kitchen counter.  I missed.  I re-calculated the math, tried again, and missed.  
This was starting to get embarrassing.  So I gave mom (who was doing dishes), a forlorn look, and she picked me up and let me drink from the faucet.  I will have to review my geometry notes to see where I went wrong.

I think I'll call it a day now.  
Special kisses going to my sweet Kiwi.
Many wishes that you all had a great Easter.
Lots of love and thanks for the purrs and gifts.

Your skinny Energizer bunnycat, >^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Beating The Odds So Far</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/576734</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Apr 2009 11:49:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/576734</guid>
		<description>Hello my furry friends,

I'm still here, and still purrin' !  
The vet's assistant keeps calling, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my furry friends,

I'm still here, and still purrin' !  
The vet's assistant keeps calling, checking to see if I kicked the bucket yet...but I just tell them, "Fill that bucket with Easter candy, because this old guy is not going to miss this Easter!".

You see, I decided something...instead of being a cat dying of cancer...I am going to be a cat living with cancer...and I will be that until the angels come for me.

Speaking of angels,  my gray friend  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/404464"><b>Ashley</b></a>, had his mom send me some harp music, because it is soothing and comforting.  Mom put in the CD, and when I heard it, I thought for a minute, that the angels were on their way!  Wait!  One more can of Fancy Feast first!  
But it was just the music, whew...close one.  :)
Thanks Ash, ole' buddy.  The music is great.  
<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, don't listen to this part...for you who don't know, Ashley and I go w-a-y back, and when we first met, I actually flirted with him because I thought he was a girl!  *still blushes at the thought*

N0w you can listen again Kiwi.  :)
(I love you, honey, smooch, smooch) 
 
(That kiss is NOT for you, Ashley)

Also, one more piece of good news.  The last couple of days, I am off my liquid diet.  Yay!  I can't have kibble, probably never again, but I can have pured, soft food.  I'm growing fond of  the new kitten's canned food.  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/974050"><b>Fisher</b></a> has been kind enough to share.  It's extra nutritious, and tasty too!  The prescription food was too bland, and mom got tired of me turning my nose up, at  $1.50 a can!  

That's about it again.  I thank you all for following my progress, and for all those purrs.

Gentle bonks, and soft purrs,
>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Thin Man</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/575372</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 20:25:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/575372</guid>
		<description>That's my new name around here.  The Thin Man.
How skinny can a cat get?  I look scary.  But I feel ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ That's my new name around here.  The Thin Man.
How skinny can a cat get?  I look scary.  But I feel okay.
  
The night before last I did something different.  For the last two months I have been sleeping in the office, on a fleece cat bed on the desk.  Sometimes during the day, if mom is home, I go out and roam around the house, but I have to be supervised so I don't try to eat the dry kibble.  There are always about six bowls of that set out.  Anyway, the night before last, I went out of the office, and didn't ask to come back in.  Dad was already in bed, and mom was trying to go to bed, but she couldn't find me.  She looked in every room.  She looked again in every room.
Finally she gave up, and turned the bedroom light on.  There I was, on the top shelf in the bedroom.  Daddy built staggered height shelves above the bed, and mom puts narrow cat beds on them, with rug gripper.  Usually Lucy, Enzo, Larke, Sissy, or Kate hang out on them.  I have never gotten up there.  But there I was! 
In the dark, she had thought I was Enzo.  We look more alike now that I'm skinny.  Dad joked that she couldn't find me because I turned sideways, MOL!  I admit...I wouldn't make a decent meal for the coyote who lives in our neighborhood. *grins*
  
But I'm good for now, my friends. The rosettes keep coming in, and I am still writing thank you's, but I messed up. I started at one end, the oldest, then began the newest and worked back, now some are dropping off, and I got lost in the middle.  So I am taking a little longer than I should, but I'm almost there!

Mom says I have to get after it because Hannah's birthday is on the 5th, and then a whole bunch after that.

Well, I didn't mean to write a book.  Get some sleep, my pals.
I'll try not to snore and keep you up. :)

Pleasant dreams, and Kiwi, my love, my dreams are ALWAYS about you.

Loving purrs,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Still Purrin'</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/572434</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 09:31:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/572434</guid>
		<description>Hello again, Zack here, and still purring!
The love and purrs are doing the trick.  I am feeling st ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello again, Zack here, and still purring!
The love and purrs are doing the trick.  I am feeling stronger, resting more comfortably and looking pretty good for a skinny olde furt!
My mouth is no longer bleeding.  I just have to stay on a liquid diet.
Today I am going to get some tuna juice, and dad will get tuna sandwiches. :)
I'd like some tuna too, but no solid food, rats.
I have another new picture.  It's my first "bowl" picture. Most of the other cats have had their picture taken in our popular big ceramic bowl that sits on the kitchen counter.  But somehow they always missed mine.  Well, mom moved the bowl into the office because it is starting to warm up outside and she thought I might like to lay in the cool bowl.  She was right!
I have three pictures in it, but for now I will just put one on.
I will be starting to catch up on correspondence, and thank you's again soon.
I guess that's about it, for now.  Nap time again. :)

See you, my friends.
Love & purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack (snoring away)]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New Pictures</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571778</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 22:57:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571778</guid>
		<description>Just when I thought I might not have any new pictures...
Three new pictures!
I had a GOOD day toda ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Just when I thought I might not have any new pictures...
Three new pictures!
I had a GOOD day today! Purrrrrrrrrr
My vet recommended a prescription food that is very, very soft. and packed with calories.
Mom mixed it even wetter with low sodium chicken broth, and I loved it!
She is hoping that I will still like it tomorrow too.
She had a good talk with the vet, also, and he knows we are buying time, but that's okay.  He said he did not want to do any surgery because he thought the anesthesia would kill me.  I have always had a problem with it, probably because of my epilepsy.  So for now, I am going to try to keep eating, and sleep lots, and live as normal a life as I can.
I spent over three hours with my siblings today. I even sat in the kitchen window sill for a while.
Please keep purraying, and I will do my part to hang in there.
Also, please forgive that I have not written back to all my notes.  My parents are working a lot, and haven't had hardly any time.  They have to work this weekend too, but mom is determined to do some typing just for me. :)

Grateful purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>An Easier Day</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571503</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:09:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571503</guid>
		<description>Every day is a blessing now.
I had an easier day today.  My parents worked all day, but were able t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Every day is a blessing now.
I had an easier day today.  My parents worked all day, but were able to come home and check on me twice. I slept most of the day.  Mom made a gruel of turkey baby food, and the juice from the other cats turkey Friskies dinners.  I lapped it up, and thankfully hardly any bleeding.  For dessert, I had a treat, soft cheese from a squeeze bottle.  That was delicious.
Tomorrow Dalton and Larke visit the vet, to follow up on their spay/neuters, and to get some shots.  Mom is going to ask the vet what more he can recommend for me.  She talked to him yesterday, about the bleeding, and he does not think that I can loose enough blood to hurt me.   But tonight, it was just a little bit.  If I don't chew on anything, drink only liquids, it is better.
Tomorrow is also Ivy's third birthday.  She is my feral little sister.  
Please don't feel like you have to send anything.  I am so far behind thanking you all for the rosettes, pmails and gifts, that I don't know when I will get them all done.  I am pawing away at them though.  :)
I really enjoy sending them, and talking with my friends.  I have met some wonderful cats through all of this.  I have also had tremendous support from all my old pals.
Well, time for this old boy to get some Zzzzz's.  I send my grateful purrs, and my most sincere thanks, and love & kisses to my little love, Kiwi.

Goodnight my friends~
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>One Day at a Time</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571260</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:07:47 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/571260</guid>
		<description>Hello my friends, and my lovely Kiwi.  I'm still here.
Mom talked to the vet, and we are taking it  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my friends, and my lovely Kiwi.  I'm still here.
Mom talked to the vet, and we are taking it slow now.
I barely ate last night, just a few spoons of baby food.  Thankfully, my mouth did not bleed any more.  Mom and dad gave me a sponge bath, and cleaned me up.  After I was all dry, she brushed me and I purred up a storm.
Mom spent most of the night with me.  We had a long talk about what is happening.  She is still going to let me make the decision to tell her when I am ready.
I do see the rainbow in the distance.  It is beautiful, and I understand, you can see it in my eyes.  Cats are wise creatures.
I love my family, and have spent my entire life with them, 13 1/2 years.  I know they wish it were double that.  I also know they couldn't have gotten through all this without the purrs and support and love of so many cherished friends.  I may be slow to thank you all, but I will.
Now I need to rest again.  Thanks for all the notes, too.  Mom has to work today, but she will help me write back when she gets home.

Love and purrs,
>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom Needs Me, and You</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570991</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:27:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570991</guid>
		<description>If wishing could make it so...I would wish that no kitty ever had to have pain, or suffer, and that  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ If wishing could make it so...I would wish that no kitty ever had to have pain, or suffer, and that they could all live to be 25, and just close their eyes one day in their sleep.
Growing old isn't easy...
My mouth started bleeding again, worse this time. It just won't stop.  Mom bought those disposable bed pads, and covered my new clean bed, and a lot of the desk area.  I resist when she tries to clean me up.  I am tired.
Mom keeps crying.  I look at her with the saddest eyes, and wish I could do something.  So I purr a little, and stand in front of her monitor so she can't see a thing, except me.  This is my way of reminding her of what is most important....time with me.   So if  I don't write for a bit, please don't worry.
I will make sure Hazel Lucy, or Kiwi, or Wally, or Maggie Moo know what's going on.  

Tired purrs,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Irish You A Happy St. Patrick's Day</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570897</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 20:41:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570897</guid>
		<description>Still purrin' my friends.

After that awful night, last night, today was a complete turn-a-round.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Still purrin' my friends.

After that awful night, last night, today was a complete turn-a-round.  I had a really great day.  I ate well, slept well, walked around and visited my siblings, had cheese and turkey for lunch, got brushed, and my mouth did not bleed at all.  (purrrrr)
My eyes are brighter today, too.  
All I can say is thank you, thank you, for the purrs and prayers.  It has to be them that are helping.
Also, you just have to go and visit my darling  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi's</b></a> page.  She made a video of her special purrs that she sends, as her mommie types for her.  Thanks, my little love....you purr like an angel.  I purred right back when I heard it. She can purr very loudly!  :)
I hope everyone had a fun St. Patricks Day.  We weren't able to send out very many rosettes, as we had planned, so please know we think all our friends are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Heading off for an early bedtime now.

Sleepy purrs,
>^,,^<  Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Really Rough One</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570543</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:56:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/570543</guid>
		<description>St. Paddy's Day has been less than lucky for me, so far.  
It's nearly three am, and I am finally a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ St. Paddy's Day has been less than lucky for me, so far.  
It's nearly three am, and I am finally about to get some sleep.

I barely ate any supper.  It was soft food, and gravy, but my mouth began to bleed, and bleed, and mom got frantic because it wouldn't stop.  She's a wimp around blood anyway.  All I wanted to do was to have her cradle my head in her hands. I laid beside her for what seemed like a very long time.  She held cold compresses on my mouth.  It was pretty scary.  The blood was coming from my gums, all over. It finally stopped.  I think I ruined my new bed, but that's...not important.
My fiancee, Kiwi, wrote me the sweetest letter.  I kept thinking about how much I will miss her.  I wanted us to spend all our remaining cat lives together.  I will have to learn all the angel etiquette.  I am sure I will have some good teachers.  
I think mom is spending the night in the office with me.  Earlier Kira was here, visiting, and Hannah for a while, and Harry.  Griffin and Larke came in for a quick visit. I love to see my family.  
Guess I am ready for some rest. I sort of hate to close my eyes sometimes. I want to be sure to open them again, in my own home.  Not that the Bridge isn't beautiful, or peaceful.  I'd just like to hang around here a while longer.
Thanks again for the purrs.  I am almost caught up with the thank you's.
What an amazing group of cats that have been so kind to me.

Goodnight friends,
Soft purrs, 
>^,,^<    Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Things I Still Love</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/568990</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:45:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/568990</guid>
		<description>Hello my special friends~
I'm not having a very good day today, and it's got me thinking.
Even tho ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my special friends~
I'm not having a very good day today, and it's got me thinking.
Even though I have some pawsome friends at the Bridge, to welcome me, I'm just not ready to go yet.

I still love having my chin scratched.
I still love being brushed, only now it's very, very gently.
I still love my Tender Moments chicken and cheese treats.
I still love when mom cradles my face in her hands.
I still love to lay on dads arm when he is on the computer.
I still love supper time, my FF flavor of the week is gourmet chicken feast.
I still love to nap under the desk lamp, it's nice and warm.
I still love being with my brothers and sisters.

There are so many more parts to my life that I don't want to give up...not yet.

Today my mouth started bleeding, for no reason.  Not a lot, but Mom called the vet.  I'd rather not go there again.  The cancer might be in my blood now.
I ate my supper pretty well.  It didn't bleed then.  Mom is scared though.  She doesn't want to go to work because she is afraid something may happen while she's gone.  I told her not to worry.  I have many angel friends watching me, and ready to escort me if something bad happens. 
I won't be alone.

Could use a few extra prayers though.
Tired purrs~
>^,,^<  Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Joining The Fun</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/568656</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:08:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/568656</guid>
		<description>Like my new name?  :)
Since so many of my friends have changed their names for the upcoming St. Pad ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Like my new name?  :)
Since so many of my friends have changed their names for the upcoming St. Paddy's Day holiday, I decided to join in the fun.
I have seen some really funny names, and some very creative ones.
I am glad to see Catster having so much fun.  HQ has made some great gift rosettes too.  Maybe they will come up with another game to win zealies.  That would be a pot of gold!

Happy St Patrick's Day to all my friends, and my beloved Kiwi.

>^,,^< Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm A One-Hander</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/567521</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 7 Mar 2009 07:05:32 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/567521</guid>
		<description>Good Morning my friends, and loving kisses to my  precious Kiwi.

Mom wanted to ask any of you who ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Good Morning my friends, and loving kisses to my  precious <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>.

Mom wanted to ask any of you who have been through this, a question.

It seems I act like I am starving.  I literally push her out of the way when I see a can of food in her hands.  Then I will dive into the plate of food like I haven't eaten in a week.  However, I eat some, then go lay back down. in a few minutes she will show it to me again, and I act like I've re-discovered it.
This goes on three or four times, and finally after about half an hour, I have finished my plate.  I am eating like this three to four times a day, but still I am skinny as a rail.  
Mom says I'm a "one-hander".  That's a cat that is lightweight, and can be picked up with one hand, as opposed to needing to use both.  (And in Xerox's case, a forklift!)   Mom thinks he must be w-a-y over twenty pounds. I wish he could give me some of those pounds now.
When she picks me up, she worries that she is going to break me, I feel so fragile, so she uses both hands and cradles me. 
Anyway...she was wondering if this ravenous eating was normal for my situation?

Okay, I'm ready for a nap again.  
My continued humble thanks to all~

>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Buenos Dias</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/566296</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 08:54:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/566296</guid>
		<description>That's &quot;good morning&quot; in Spanish, for my international friends. :)
Why am I saying that?
Well, I s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ That's "good morning" in Spanish, for my international friends. :)
Why am I saying that?
Well, I surprised mom this morning, and I INSISTED on sharing her breakfast bean burrito with her.
I was really in her face to get a bite, and it wasn't even cool yet!  
I have always loved refried beans, well... any kind of bean really.  Peas,  garbanzos, kidney beans...yum.
So here was mom, biting off tiny pieces and blowing on them as fast as she could, and trying to sneak a bite for herself in as well.  And skinny old me, standing at her side, waiting for the next piece. These days I get to eat pretty much anything I want.
Purrrrr.
I also wanted to say that I am FINALLY starting to send my thank-you's out.  So if you didn't get yours yet, you will in the next couple days.  I am still amazed at all the kindness.
Purrrrr.
Now I think I might go ask for some queso to finish off my meal.
Love you, my friends.

>^,,^<  Zacky]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Quiet Sunday</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/565553</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Mar 2009 09:00:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/565553</guid>
		<description>I am not feeling so great this morning.  I am a lot quieter than I have been, and now I've got mom m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am not feeling so great this morning.  I am a lot quieter than I have been, and now I've got mom more worried.
I also wasn't very intersted in breakfast.  I ate about half my normal amount, but soon after, I threw it up.  Not good...
I rarely ever lose my supper, but when I do, I always go into the litter box to do it.  I have done this since I was a kitten.  They say I have the manners of a gentleman.  Still, I can't afford to lose any calories right now.
Hopefully this was just a one time incident.  Too many chicken treats maybe?  
Well, I just had time for a quick note, now the humans have to go and work. I will nap until they get back.  Daddy has arranged his work schedule so they can check back a few times during the day.
I send my continued thanks for all the purrs.
Soon I will get started on those "O' Fish Eel" thank you's.
Loving purrs to my girl, Kiwi too.  I'll write soon, honey.

Sleepy purrs.
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Overwhelmed...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/564305</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 04:53:36 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/564305</guid>
		<description>M-e-o-w, my friends.  All this kindness for one little gray cat?  I am more grateful to all of you t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ M-e-o-w, my friends.  All this kindness for one little gray cat?  I am more grateful to all of you that have written and sent things, than I can ever hope to express.  I am just completely overwhelmed.

I had a pretty good day yesterday. I am getting the staff well trained.  It only takes one half-hearted meow to get them to jump up and let me out of the office. One paw on the door, and I'm back in.  :)
And daddy bought me some special soft treats that I don't have to share.  Before, they always made me eat crunchy treats, to help clean my teeth, but mom says teeth don't matter so much now.
I also got hand fed some deli-shaved turkey!  Yum. There are a few perks to being sick. :)
On a more serious note, I am lucky in one respect, that the cancer is attached to the outside of my colon, not blocking it.  That gives me more time.  I plan to make the most of however long that might be.
I do know that all this has made me realize how strong the bonds of love and friendship are on Catster.  Momma always says it is a place like no other, and now I see why.
Once more, I am so grateful for everything you all have sent.  
In my kitty purrayers I will thank each and every one also.

With loving purrs,
>^,,^<   Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Maybe You Better Put Those Wings In Lay-Away, Mom</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/563834</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:27:29 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/563834</guid>
		<description>Hello my dearest purr-pals.  Sweet kisses to my fiancee, Kiwi.
I just got back from the vet's offic ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my dearest purr-pals.  Sweet kisses to my fiancee, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>.
I just got back from the vet's office, and I am still a little groggy from the anesthesia, so bear with me.

It looks like I will be needing those wings after all.  The vet did an ultrasound, and x-ray.  It appears that I have cancer.  A tumor, about the size of a nickel is attached to my colon.  The vet could see the blood supply to it, and he said that the tumor was eating all my nutrition, and that's why I have lost so much weight.  I weighed 8.1 pounds, almost half a pound lighter than last visit.
He said it most likely has already spread, and could not say how long I have.  Mom says I will have pain medication if it looks like I am hurting.  (So far, I'm not).  She says I have to tell her when I have had enough...I have to let her know when I am ready to go, otherwise she is going to keep stuffing me with Fancy Feast, and keep me around as long as she can.
Once more, thank you for all the gifts and rosettes and pmails.  
We can still purray for a remission, or a miracle...

I think I want to go rest now.  

I love you all, from the bottom of my heart.

>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom's Turn...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/563601</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Feb 2009 20:52:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/563601</guid>
		<description>Zack's momma here...

I fear my precious boy is slipping away from me.  Despite feeding him anythi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Zack's momma here...

I fear my precious boy is slipping away from me.  Despite feeding him anything he wants, chicken, cheese, his favorite lunch meats, and canned food, in addition to his prescription dry, he continues to lose weight.  He is skin and bones now.

He seems restless, tossing and turning in his bed.  We have set him up away from the other cats, in the warmest room of the house.  Occasionally he wants out, and will stiffly walk around for a half hour, and then meow at the door to come back in and lay down.  It is breaking my heart.
I will call the vet tomorrow, and ask what else can be done.  For those who do not know Zack's history, he has had epilepsy since he was a kitten.  He also does not tolerate anesthesia, the vet thinks he hallucinates.  I don't know why the vet did not want tests...did he see something I missed?
This change was so sudden.  There are pictures on his page that are only months old, and he is a shadow of that cat now.
I am asking for a miracle, because I just cannot lose Zack...not yet.
Please put him in your prayers.  I know I owe so many of you thank you's.  We work so much, and the cats take up almost all my spare time.  I am so behind on Catster.  I am so very tired.  Please forgive me if you don't hear back promptly.  I am trying to spend as much time with my boy as I can.
Thank you for being loyal friends to Zack, and to all my beloved cats.

With love,
Zack's momma, Teri]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Don't Do Thermometers</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/558458</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Feb 2009 20:30:02 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/558458</guid>
		<description>My second visit to the vet was a little less traumatic than the first.
Mom sprayed my carrier with  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My second visit to the vet was a little less traumatic than the first.
Mom sprayed my carrier with Feliway, and put a fluffy towel inside.  
On the way over, she let the carrier ride on her lap (daddy drove :) ), and I licked her hand through the bars, and purred.
At the doctor's office, they weighed me.  I still only weigh 8.6 pounds.  Not any better, but not any worse.  The vet said if I maintain, and do not lose any more, he will be happy.  I got another antibiotic shot, that lasts over a month.
They had to wrap me in a towel, and I screamed like a wolverine. I suggested that if they valued their fingers, then they should not try the thermometer.  They listened.  :)
The receptionist later told dad that it frightened most of the people in the waiting room.  They asked "what are they doing to that cat?"  Even the dogs started barking. I can laugh now...but it was no picnic.  At least I don't have to go back for a while.
We stocked up on Fancy Feast, and got a new 20lb bag of my prescription CD diet.  So I am all set.
I wanted to say thank you to my lovely fiancee, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, for cheering me up with her sweet letters, and constant love, and to my fur bro-in-love,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764"><b>Wally</b></a>, for watching over me so well, and to my buddy,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/526501"><b>Mathis der Meowler</b></a>, for keeping the purrs going, and encouraging me.
Time to rest now...
Purrs to you all,
>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Don't Order My Wings Yet, Mom</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/552928</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 18:42:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/552928</guid>
		<description>Well, I gave my mom quite a scare, and certainly a few new gray hairs.
She has been so preoccupied  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, I gave my mom quite a scare, and certainly a few new gray hairs.
She has been so preoccupied with my brother Stinky, and his asthma, that she didn't realize I was losing weight at an alarming rate.  Last week she picked me up, and was shocked how light I was.  I have been slowing down all last year, and she was convinced that I was about ready to go to the Bridge.  
I have a real fear of the vet, and I transform from the most peaceful, gentle guy, into a full blown wolverine.  I snarl, hiss, scratch and bite.  I really don't mean to do that, I just freak out.  Anyway, vet trips for me are very stressful for all involved, so they are kept to a minimum.  
But today, my daddy and momma decided I had to go...no choice.  Mom was prepared for the worst news.  But it wasn't all that terrible.  
The vet thinks I have thyroid problems, which would explain my rapid weight loss.  I went from 13 lbs on my last visit, to 8 1/2  pounds today.
He wants to do some blood work on me,  to confirm that, then I will have to take some medicine.  Today, I was so agitated I was more interested in doing some blood work on him, and dad!  
So that will be later, and for now, he gave me an appetite stimulant, and a steroid shot, and said I should be feeling better in a couple days.  Mom is going to try some baby food too.  I mean I am, not her. :)
So I think that's about all for now.  I will write again and let you all know how I am doing.

Purrs,  >^,,^<  Zack

P.S. Kiwi, my little love, don't worry sweetie, it's not over 'til the fat cat sings. I love you.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Birthdays, Birthdays!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/497872</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 24 Aug 2008 01:06:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/497872</guid>
		<description>I turned 13 a week ago, and that makes me a teenager.  I think it made me a bit irresponsible too, b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I turned 13 a week ago, and that makes me a teenager.  I think it made me a bit irresponsible too, because I still haven't written my thank you's to everyone.  That doesn't mean that I didn't love all the nice rosettes, and gifts that I received.  They were just great.  Thank everycat, and I will write each of you soon.
now some important business.

Today, August 24th, is my sweetheart, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi's</b></a>, 12th birthday.  I hope she gets lots of nice things today.  My gift will be late because mom didn't get it in the snail mail, early enough.  But it's coming, my love.

I also would like to let everyone know that Kiwi and I are engaged.  I actually asked her, back on our 1st annifursary, April 15th.  But being a "procatstinator", I just finally picked her ring, with the help of her mom! MOL!  So today it's official, we will be furmates forever.

It's going to be a busy day, so this old fellow is going to head off to bed now.
Thanks for reading....Catster has one swell group of cats.

Goodnight,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>No Pawty This Year</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/495271</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 Aug 2008 07:36:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/495271</guid>
		<description>Hello my Catster friends.

Tomorrow is my 13th birthday.  I have been looking forward all year to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my Catster friends.

Tomorrow is my 13th birthday.  I have been looking forward all year to my annual Beach Bash Birthday Pawty.  Last year we all had a blast, and the pawty went on for hours.  But unfortunately, our momma is having vision trouble, and so she can't type for long periods right now.
I had to cancel my pawty, but that's okay.  Maybe I will have one a little later in the year, or if not, we'll plan a great one for next summer.

I also wanted to ask everyone to remember my beautiful soulmate, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi's</b></a>, 12th birthday on August 24th.  We would have been celebrating together.
I will remind you all again, closer to the date.  Now, if someone will just be sure to wake me up in time, this year.

Purrs to all,

>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Just For Kiwi</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/421073</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Feb 2008 00:18:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/421073</guid>
		<description>I just wanted to say that I have a beautiful girlfriend, Kiwi, and she loves me!

Will you be my V ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just wanted to say that I have a beautiful girlfriend, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, and she loves me!

Will you be my Valentine, Kiwi?  This year, and for all our years to come?

Your devoted guy,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Holy Cow !~ Cat of the Day !</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/363358</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:14:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/363358</guid>
		<description>I was already in bed...I turn in early these days, but Mom was up late, because Monday was my younge ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was already in bed...I turn in early these days, but Mom was up late, because Monday was my younger sister <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/77243"><b>Sophie's</b></a> birthday, and they were writing thank you's.
She comes running in and says "Zack, wake up!  You're <b>Cat of the Day!</b>"
Meowrrr?  Really?  Cool.
Can't wait for my lovely girlfriend, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>,  to wake up and see!  I love you, honey!

It was our friend <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/347497"><b>Hondo</b></a> who alerted Mom!  He must be a night owl too.  Then a pmail came from  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764"><b>Wally</b></a>,  and he was as excited as I was!

Now it's after 3:00 am here, and if I don't get back to sleep, I will be grumpy tomorrow, and nobody wants a grumpy <b>Cat of the Day</b>, so goodnight my friends.  

More Later,  >^,,^<   Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Saying Goodbye</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/356585</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Aug 2007 00:10:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/356585</guid>
		<description>How do you say goodbye to a friend?  How do you ever come to terms with the fact that they are gone  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ How do you say goodbye to a friend?  How do you ever come to terms with the fact that they are gone forever?  That is where faith comes in.  Without it, we would be lost.

I want to say my saddest goodbyes to <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477740"><b>Muffin</b></a>, the much loved older sister, of my girl, Kiwi.   
Muffin, you inspired me, encouraged me, and made me less afraid of growing old.  You did it with such grace and style.

I am so very happy that you were able to attend my birthday party,  last week. That is a memory I will never forget.

We will meet again, and when that time comes, we will have a grand celebration at the Bridge.  I might even bring a lobster or two! 

Love always,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Most Wonderful Birthday</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/353737</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Aug 2007 18:02:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/353737</guid>
		<description>My 12th Birthday Beach Bash was great fun!

We had good food like boiled shrimp and crab legs, gri ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My 12th Birthday Beach Bash was great fun!

We had good food like boiled shrimp and crab legs, grilled salmon and my favorite cheese.  My beautiful girlfriend,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, and her siblings, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477696"><b>Loki</b></a> and <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477807"><b>Maggie</b></a>, fixed a true Maine Lobster cookout!  Mmmm, I can still taste the melted butter, and succulent lobster.

Friends <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/410352"><b>Angel</b></a>, and her brother  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/411666"><b>Merlin</b></a>,  brought me a wonderful hammock and blanket. I will use that at next year's beach bash!  We have decided to do it again next year.

And the elegant <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/560954"><b>Elsa</b></a>,  brought enough fresh sardines for the whole crowd!
What a wonderful day it was.  The kittens played on the beach, and chased sand crabs.  We all remembered when we were young and carefree, like that.

<a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/243166"><b>Ashley Jay</b></a>, 
 my lovely friend, read this beautiful poem.
 
<i>"Your friends from far and near
Have all gathered here
To celebrate this day
Together we will say.....

Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
May all your dreams and wishes come true
Happy birthday to you

Another year has gone
Since last we sang this song
We all remember when
And so we sing again...

May good fortune come to you
In all the things you do
In the year that lies ahead
Remember what we said....."</i>

Those lines really say it all.

Thank you all for making this old gray boy very happy and very grateful for the friends and family around him.

>^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>PaRTy TiMe !!!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/353154</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 11:26:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/353154</guid>
		<description>The day is finally here, my friends.  Please come and celebrate with me at my beach party.  Bring NO ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The day is finally here, my friends.  Please come and celebrate with me at my beach party.  Bring NO gifts, just yourself, and come hungry, 'cause momma "fixed" LOTS of  food.  

If it turns out good, we'll do this every year.  Here's the place to be:


Forums-->Party Time & Virtual Play Dates-->Zack's 12th Birthday Beach Bash !

Hope to see you there.


Purrs and headbonks, >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>MOL! Clearing up the Confusion</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/352550</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:36:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/352550</guid>
		<description>Saturday is my 12th birthday.  I have caused some confusion about this because the last time I wrote ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ <b>Saturday</b> is my <b>12th birthday</b>.  I have caused some confusion about this because the last time I wrote in this diary, was nearly a year ago...on my 11th birthday!

I have received a couple of lovely early <b>Stars</b>, from my sister Sophie's boyfriend,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/417764"><b>Wally</b></a>, and his sister, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/427259"><b>SydneyRose</b></a>, and brother,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/418058"><b>Alfie</b></a>.  Thanks a million guys!

Our oldest friend, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/56446"><b>Milo's</b></a> baby brother <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/538096"><b>Enzo</b></a>,  also sent a star!  Truly appreciated little fellow.

<b>But that's not ALL...</b>

My old pal,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/446741"><b>Charlie</b></a>, wrote me a great letter, and sent a rosette, and my new grey friend,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/139287"><b>Pixel</b></a>, gave me a rosette, and my other new grey friend,  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/449773"><b>Dusty</b></a>, sent a yummy shrimp rosette, and lastly,  the always kind  <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/492178"><b>Baby-G</b></a> sent a very nice note and rosette.

<b>And it's not even my Birthday Yet !</b>

And <b>best of all...</b>, My beautiful girl, <a  class=bodyTextRev target=site href="http://www.catster.com/cats/477724"><b>Kiwi</b></a>, is coming to my beach party Saturday!!! (I will tell you about that tomorrow)

Now I am really getting excited...

More Later,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy Birthday to me!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/195162</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 18 Aug 2006 01:04:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/195162</guid>
		<description>I'm eleven years old today!  Mom and Dad are going to do some special things for me today!  I will g ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm eleven years old today!  Mom and Dad are going to do some special things for me today!  I will get brushed, and combed, and served a fancy dinner.  I don't play much, but I still love catnip, so I'll probably get some of that, too!  Too bad I can't have a birthday every day.  But then I would be awfully old, wouldn't I?  Still, it's good to be the King, even if it's just for today.  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Spreading the Word</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/139043</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 4 Apr 2006 20:57:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/139043</guid>
		<description>Mommy was on the pet food isle at Walmart, and this nice young lady asked her a question about food  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy was on the pet food isle at Walmart, and this nice young lady asked her a question about food for her pregnant cat.  They talked about preparing for kittens, and about their cats in general.  Mom decided to tell her about Catster, and all the fun she has here.  Well today she got a surprise, and here was an email from two new additions to Catster.  Check out "Jester" and "Moki", from Rockport Texas.  Please make them feel as welcome as you did for me!    Purrrrrrrrs to all,  Zack  >^,,^<  !]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Sad Day Today</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/63511</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 Jul 2005 20:23:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/63511</guid>
		<description>Momma has been crying a lot today, and nothing I do seems to cheer her up.  A sweet orange and white ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Momma has been crying a lot today, and nothing I do seems to cheer her up.  A sweet orange and white kitty named Milo has been living with us for the last year and a half.  He had to stay in the bathroom away from us all because he was  Leukemia positive.  We all kept hoping he would get better, and join us in terrorizing the house, but today he left us to be with God.  I know God will take good care of him, and he will finally have lots of other kitties to play with.  We will all miss you, sweet boy.  Bye "Big M".     >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Nothing much...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/61433</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 Jul 2005 17:33:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/61433</guid>
		<description>Remarkably, I haven't gotten into any trouble lately, so I just thought I would let you all know!  M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Remarkably, I haven't gotten into any trouble lately, so I just thought I would let you all know!  Mom brought one of the new kittens inside last night, and no one even noticed there was another one!  She was wondering how long it would take Dad to notice!  Just as long as it's not another Tabby!  He already has "tabby trouble" and cannot tell them apart!  But look at their photos!  Jack doesn't look anything like Sophie, and Harry doesn't look anything like either one, and Matilda and Kira (woops, they are not on Catster yet)  Ok, I see how it might get confusing.  Life is good even with our large cat family.  Dad says he wouldn't trade any of us for anything.  (Well, maybe for that Ferrari...in red of course!)   See you later, >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New Mews, I mean News</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/43541</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 6 May 2005 17:36:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/43541</guid>
		<description>Just wanted to keep you up to date on the kittens.  They are starting to open their eyes!  Don't you ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Just wanted to keep you up to date on the kittens.  They are starting to open their eyes!  Don't you just wonder what they think of this world?   Momma has her eyes on the little buff colored girl.  Dad has his eyes on the nut farm if they keep any more cats!   Awww, they love us all...catch you later,  >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Oh Baby!  Babies!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/42133</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 30 Apr 2005 06:00:47 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/42133</guid>
		<description>You'll never guess what we have around our house!  Ready?  Eight newborn kittens!  Mommy and Dad res ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ You'll never guess what we have around our house!  Ready?  Eight newborn kittens!  Mommy and Dad rescued two pregnant kitties and they both had their babies the same day, well almost.  One had hers on Sunday afternoon, and the other started Sunday night and finished 5:00 AM Monday morning!  They didn't get any sleep that night.  More stories coming soon and pictures, as soon as Dad responds to Mom's nagging, I mean asking, for pictures to be taken!  Have to admit, they are cute...all of them are different colors!  Catch you later,   >^,,^<   Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Oh Brother!</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/28226</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 27 Feb 2005 07:35:23 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/28226</guid>
		<description>Well, for once it's not my fault for this trip to the vet...my mean brother, Stinky, bit my tail.  N ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, for once it's not my fault for this trip to the vet...my mean brother, Stinky, bit my tail.  Now, why would he go and do that?  I'm really an easy guy to get along with.  The vet had to shave my tail halfway, so I look like a stylish lion.  It does get me extra attention ...Dad has to give me yucky pills, but Mom fixes my favorite dinner after.  I'm such a good boy...sometimes...  love and licks,   >^,,^<  Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Mystery of the Missing Golf Balls</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/4003</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 6 Oct 2004 20:42:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/4003</guid>
		<description>One of my favorite toys to play with is my yellow plastic golf balls.  The holes make it real easy f ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ One of my favorite toys to play with is my yellow plastic golf balls.  The holes make it real easy for me to carry them around.  I like to retrieve them when Dad throws them.  I especially like the noise they make on the tile.  Mom and Dad look and look for where I put them.  They look under the bed, under the couch, under the dresser, even behind the refrigerator.  But these balls are nowhere to be found.  So they buy more, but before you know it, the new ones have gone missing too!  They can't figure it out...heh heh.  Then one day Mom sees me walking down the hall with a ball.  I don't see her though, and proceed into the bedroom.  There beside the dresser is a hole in the wall, where bugulars came to our house and pulled the TV out so hard, it left a hole where the wallplate was.  This is my secret place.  I drop my ball in the hole, and it joins the 15 others already there.  AH HAH!  says Mom...Caught you!   Busted...     >^,,^<   Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The Notorious Raspberry Kool-Aid Caper</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/3375</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 2 Oct 2004 06:56:46 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/3375</guid>
		<description>Yeah, you guessed it...I'm in trouble again.  Well really it's not ALL my fault, Mommy TOLD Daddy ov ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yeah, you guessed it...I'm in trouble again.  Well really it's not ALL my fault, Mommy TOLD Daddy over and over again, not to take drinks into the only room in the house that still had carpet.  Mom says Dad is best friends with that Murphy fellow, so if it can go wrong, it will.  Well it did.  Since I was a kitten, I have enjoyed putting my paw on the edge of a glass and pulling it over, and then with one backwards glance, I would go tearing off.  (Now that I'm big,  I try this with buckets, too.)  Well, the now infamous glass of raspberry Kool-Aid ended up all over the side of the leather couch and on the  tan carpet.  I've never heard Dad use THOSE words before!  (Mom says write her for the name of a good cleaner).  I'm such a bad boy...sure glad they love me.        >^,,^<      Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>More    Trouble ...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/3062</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 30 Sep 2004 08:54:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/3062</guid>
		<description>I have to admit I do have a very bad habit, I don't know why I do it...I just can't stop myself... I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have to admit I do have a very bad habit, I don't know why I do it...I just can't stop myself... I eat things I shouldn't.  Now, I'm not talking about the things my human parents eat that THEY shouldn't (like ice cream, pie, cookies, etc.)  I eat "fuzzy" things, or "stringy" things.  My favorite of favorites is dryer lint.  Yum Yum.  When Mom pulls out the screen to clean it out,  I stick my paw down the opening and fish more out!  The lint doesn't cause me any trouble, but once I decided to try brillo pads.   Man, was I sick for a week.  You think I would learn, but like I say...I CAN'T HELP MYSELF!  That same year I discovered my second greatest passion, a seasonal treat...easter basket grass.  Mom and Dad didn't know I was eating this until it began to make it's  "exit".   Boy, were they suprised and mad, and after yet another trip to the vet (I love my doctor, but hate vet trips),  I was OK.   I do have an interesting life. >^,,^<     More soon.    Zack]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Early Days...</title>
		<link>http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/2699</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 27 Sep 2004 17:46:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Zack Beloved Angel (1995-2009) ~ writing at catster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.catster.com/cats/64970/diary/One_cat_tastrophy_after_another_by_zack/2699</guid>
		<description>I should start by telling you my full name.  Zack Kato Turbo Monster.  My I.D. tag  says Zack KTM.   ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I should start by telling you my full name.  Zack Kato Turbo Monster.  My I.D. tag  says Zack KTM.  The Kato part is from the character in the Peter Sellers Pink Panther movies. who used to hide and jump out.  I did that as a kitten, and sometimes still do.  Love, Love a game of chase as long as Mom says "I'm gonna get you!"  Dad wanted to call me Turbo, because of the way I raced around the house (and he likes race cars). but Mom said NO.  So it's my middle name.  The monster part is self explanitory.  Eight years later, Dad still yells "You little monster!" >^,,^<   Who, Me?...more later...ZACK]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

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