Todd the Office Cat

It's the little things...

2011-05-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

My human gets so tired of me, sometimes she doesn't let me sit on her chair. You know my favorite place to be is on her chair, smooched behind her with my face pressed into the small of her back. Today she let me. I like happy days like that.

"It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Advice from the wise one

2011-03-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

“Do or do not... there is no try.” Name the famous voice who uttered those words. It’s Yoda, the Star Wars philosopher and all around awesome cat. He could be a cat… I know he’s not, but he does have rather cat like features—charm,

wisdom, pointy ears. I was just
interested in sharing some of his wise and timeless advice with my readers. Perhaps, I am like your Yoda and you my young jedi.

So let’s expound on that—“Do or do not… there is no try.”

I like that. I like the clarity, the idea of just committing to something, or not—there’s no in between. Perhaps it’s a reminder to be more bold and confident in our choices.

Another favorite Yoda quip of mine is, “Always in motion is the future.”

For one thing, it is so true. There is no denying that the future is constantly being shaped—by our actions, by our choices, by our hopes, by our fears. There are so many possibilities awaiting.

Perhaps it’s the hopefulness of spring or the sunshine that is streaming through the office windows today, I don’t know, but I have to agree with Yoda. Looking forward to the future and yet not forgetting to do today, that is this week’s Yoda lesson. I feel like I could possibly teach a class on this—so enlightened I am.

Ok, I leave you with one final Yoda quote, “May the force be with you.”

The 12 Days of Christmas: Parts 4 - 12

2011-01-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Almani tried every day from that day on to find a new pet for the girl. After the rabbit, he met a squirrel, he met a very small roach that he introduced to the little girl. That mistake accidentally lead to the murder of the roach. He met an owl, a snake, a bee, a bird, and a deer. Every night when Almani would go to sleep and feel he never would discover a pet for his girl, the little mouse would whisper encouragements into his ear. This finally had the outcome the brilliant little mouse intended.

On the eleventh day Almani the cat approached the mouse and said, "I need a pet for my little girl to love and care for so that I might enjoy the freedom of not being a pet."

The mouse smiled and quietly accepted the task. The cat and the mouse laid their plans out. They created a tiny mouse house from the little girl's doll house. The mouse was happy to find a cozy bed, a tiny couch and even a lovely table at which he would be able to eat his crumbs and cheese bits.

Almani the cat helped to make the mouse look adorable and he told him of all the things the little girl liked to do. When they finished their work, they both smiled and just knew the plan would work.

On the twelfth day Almani and the Mouse both sat on the end of the little girls bed. When she awoke, she looked from one animal to another, she smiled.

"What have we here?" she said as petted Almani. "Is this your friend?"

Then the two animals walked over to the doll house. The little mouse walked in. The little girl clapped her hands, "How wonderful! A real live house for you to live in!"

She picked up the mouse and gave him a little kiss on his little mousey head.

Almani took this as his cue to leave.

He quietly slipped out of the room, her house and down the garden path.

Is it better to be loved or to be free?

Stay tuned for the next chapter in the story, "Mouse stew for Thanksgiving".

The 12 Days of Christmas: Part 3

2010-12-08T06:40:00.000-08:00

Almani waited until the little girl left the room again, and then he surveyed the room, he could see no animals that would be a good pet for his beloved, albeit needy, little girls. So he walked out to the winter garden.

The siamese cat approached the first animal he saw, a rabbit. The rabbit froze in terror as Almani walked near.

"What do you want?" Rabbit stammered nervously.

Almani purred sweetly, "I only want to ask if you are interested in being my girl's pet? I am tired, oh so tired of her love."

The Rabbit wiggled it's nose, it's tall ears straightened and she said, "No. I enjoy my garden. I love the snow, the sunshine, the whole outside."

Almani nodded, he figured just as much. Who would give up freedom to be loved?

"I understand," he said. His head hung down and his tail dragged behind him as he walked away.

.... continued tomorrow ...

12 Days of Christmas: Part 2

2010-12-07T06:53:00.000-08:00

Almani laid there on the wooden floor in the little girl's room with the sunlight streaming in through the window. He stretched his paws as high as he could, then sighed and rolled into a ball.

The little mouse watched and waited until he was asleep. Then quietly, ever so quietly he climbed onto the siamese cat's brownish back. He whispered in his ear, "This Christmas give a gift to yourself, follow your cat dream."

Almani stirred, but didn't wake, so little mouse said more, "Find the girl a new pet and then you will be free."

He had said his piece so the little mouse scurried away. To wait.

Almani woke up suddenly and had that look of planning already on his face. He surveyed the little girls room, he stretched his kitty back, he lifted his tail a little higher. He began to think...

A new pet for Christmas and freedom for him.

Almani heard the little girl coming, she opened the door and came straight to him, she scooped him up and held him tight. He nestled into her, even though he felt his ribs being crushed against each other. He thought, soon she will have a new pet and I will have room to breathe.

The little mouse watched. He waited. He smiled.

.... continued tomorrow...

12 Days of Christmas: Part 1

2010-12-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, in a Christmas long ago, lived a very tiny mouse in a very large house. This mouse, so full of hope, so full of life, was just so sure his destiny was to be a pet.

He watched with his tiny, mouse-y eyes from his tiny mouse-y door in the wall a little girl. The little girl was always petting her very beautiful, very regal, siamese cat. She would tell her cat, named Almani, that he was the most precious cat in the world.

All Almani dreamed of was being alone. He loved the girl, but didn't appreciate the hugs every day for hours on end. He loathed the comb that she used to brush him. He even was resentful of the way she fed him food, only at 5 o'clock and only on a silver tray.

Just once, he wished, he could catch a mouse.

Almani never told anyone this, but he day-dreamed.

The little mouse could sense that the cat was tired of his post as the little girl's pet, and he knew, he just knew, he could make a move and realize his mouse-y destiny.

... continued tomorrow....

December Goal

2010-12-06T07:52:00.000-08:00

Here it is folks, I will own up to my mistakes, I'm a cat after all, I could care less if you believe me...

I am not a faithful blogger. I get side-tracked, I get waylaid, I get BORED.

But this December I would like to promise to be more diligent. To give you the wisdom and wit of my kitty brain every day for 12 days in a row. It is my 12 Days of Christmas Goal.

I know, you may think it seems a small goal, an unworthy promise to broadcast, but never-the-less I am.

So enjoy my gift to you human world wide web readers... 'tis the season.

My unwelcome guests

2010-08-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

Where I live, it has become almost unbearable. The chirp, chirp of the crickets. They have climbed in under the door. They jump. They climb.

I stalk.

My humans love me for it. Good kitty they say when I trap a little guy under my paw. As entertaining as it is, I have tired of them. And wish they would just go away.

Much of my day is now spent listening to the humans say, "Go get that cricket, Todd."

I roll over and look at them upside down as if willing them to get up and do it themselves.

"Useless," they mutter.

That's when I decide it will be a nice night to tip over that plant again.

2010-07-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

Super smelly stinky puppies. They spit and slobber and smell like guppies. They have wet noses, some say cold. They bark at nothing, and that gets old. They run and wag their silly tails, as we yell and chase them to no avail. Slow down, relax, we scream and moan, or youll get put in your kennel all alone. No matter the threat, no matter the action, these doggies are eager to win back our affection. And then when they leave us and we aren't prepared, it hurts us inside, but they dont seem scared. Im sure they will miss us , as we will miss them. But they are happy in heaven, our puppie dog freinds. (Even cats think some puppies are worth missing.)

Life

2010-06-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is not forever. This moment is ever changing, this lifetime ever evolving. You are not who you were a year ago, less a week ago. New experiences, new people, new ideas. This is you. In progress. Somedays you think that it will never be possible – this you that you look ahead to. But I am told to become what is, is to let go of what was. Step out. Step into the sunshine and start walking.

Random thoughts.

2010-06-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Just thinking, drifting, daydreaming, you know. I was wondering, why is it people look at you like your crazy when they catch you talking to yourself? Isnt it the same as thinking to yourself, just out loud? Everybody has things bouncing around upstairs, I just choose to vocalize them. Being nice means that you are apt to be taken advantage of. Truly nice people know this, and don't mind, to an extent. I wish a whistle blew when my shift was over, don't ask me where that came from. I am going to drift away again, you should try it, its relaxing, while you wait for your whistle to blow.

2010-06-16T10:04:00.000-07:00

Dreaming is fine, and sometimes fun. Making life happen the way you want it to involves far more work, thus it is far more rewarding. It is magical when the result of your imagination turns out the exact way you dreamed it. Dreaming, determination, and hard work are an unbeatable team, but seperatly, they can be defeated. I like to ramble, can you tell?

2010-05-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

Have you done anything nice for someone lately? Was it something big, or Something little? Was it thoughtful, or considerate, or a spur of the moment thing? The fact is, it does'nt matter, because as long as a little joy is brought to the world, we are all better off. Go do something that makes people, or cats smile, and it might also help you feel good about yourself.

Im back!

2010-04-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, its been a while since I have been able to post. Things around here have been so busy finding time has been difficult. The office gals have been working there fingers to the bone, and with every day that passes they impress me more and more. Wish I had more of that work ethic thing. Actually we cats are not really known for our work ethic so what am I worried about. I eat , sleep, purr, cuddle, and write the occasional space filling column. Ahhh..life is good.

2010-02-20T05:02:00.000-08:00

Is there anything better than waking up on Saturday morning at your leisure, and not feeling pressure to do anything constructive. I say no, and am starting an "Oh no you didn't" make me do anything constructive on Saturday morning web site. Anyone in?

In pursuit

2010-02-14T05:09:00.000-08:00

It has come to my attention that the world would be a better place if everyone remained happy while pursuing happiness.

SNOW

2010-01-13T07:15:00.000-08:00

What began as a fun and great past-time has bored me to tears. It is the SNOW watching. I don't know if you people read the newspaper here, or if you're not from here if you can grasp the magnitude of 23.5 - 17 INCHES of SNOW, the first time around. Then with the additional 6 inches of last week... I mean it is unbelievable. So the piles of snow are still just sitting around. And I sit and watch them. Thinking... melt, melt, melt already. I miss those birds.

To pass the time I have begun to research what one can do with this snow.

I would like a human to do this.

Or this.

If I were a younger kitten, I would do this.

Tell me what other options does a cat have in this weather?

2009-12-29T20:20:00.000-08:00

If I were to think really hard, could I be smarter? If I could dream really hard could I make them come true? If I could start paying more attention to detail could I be more precise? If I gave my everything to be a champion would I lose? Putting forth the effort is the fastest way to success, but the effort put into reaching your goals is far more valuable when learning that it doesn’t guarantee a positive result. As depressing as it is, sometimes hard work gets you nothing. Believe it or not this is a powerful and valuable message to understand. The fact is some people are lucky, there is no arguing it, BUT, the majority of the time hard work will trump luck, so give it your all and if it doesn’t work this time the next time it will.

Just a smile

2009-12-28T14:22:00.000-08:00

I know people love me.

There's a great big smile on my day when someone stops at the office just to say, "Hi, Todd."

Even better, when they say, "I really liked your column."

A little creepier when they throw in, "I wish I could take you home with me."

And even more so when they add, "I have your picture hanging up in my house, along with everything you write."

Then I hide behind my human and meow "restraining order" to no avail.

I jest, a bit. I am glad to brighten one person's day, just like my stalker's brighten mine.

So many people

2009-12-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

are much smarter than I. And yet I continue to put paw to paper. I suppose it is because just like humans I love to hear myself think out loud.

I think it's funny when my humans do that. No one is here... yet they are still talking.

You can learn a lot about someone from what someone says to their cat when no one else is around to listen. Perhaps a new invention should be the cat recorder collar.... how fun for other humans to eavesdrop on each other that way. Okay, bad idea. It's like the creepy nanny cams in teddy bears... no good can come from it.

See... so many people smarter than I, er is it me?

A Christmas story.

2009-12-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

I phut ngy kounge againt da col ngetle goor ngow iis shtuk. Im ok now, a glass of warm water did the trick, can you guess what I was trying to say? Be warm! The answer however lame is! I put my tounge against the cold metal door now its stuck! Say it as if your tounge is stuck to a flagpole!

2009-11-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

A few quick thoughts, actually a few randon thoughts in no particular sequence. Thanksgiving, a cats favorite holiday. Im sitting next to a warm heater vent dreaming of plates and plates full of hot turkey. The cold overcast weather is fighting to come in with every opening and closing of the door. A leaf blowing by keeps my interest just long enough for the next leaf to grab my attention. Its getting dark earlier and the days seem to fly by, but the nights seem to drag on forever. Thanksgiving is the gateway to Christmas, it brings with it a thing called Black Friday. I'm glad I don't have to shop, but I hope I get something. I don't really believe its better to give than receive, most cats don't, is that bad?, no really is it? I can't believe we cats are the only animals that don't believe that crazy theory. I'm sure dogs believe it. Hope there is plenty of food and warmth for everyone out there, please travel safely, and have a greatThanksgiving.

Poetry by Todd

2009-11-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

Cat appologies

If I could erase the way I meowed

when you wouldn’t put me down

you know I would

But I can’t,

so I nap and when I wake

you forget my cat mistake.

If I could take back the time I clawed

your very favorite little shawl

you know I would

But I can’t,

so I nap and when I wake

you forget my cat mistake.

I’m trying to forget you yelled,

just because that big plant felled

you know I could...

Claw you.

2009-11-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

2009-11-11T09:12:00.000-08:00

Was that sunlight shining through yonder window this week? It seems so, but it also seems that the beautiful reprieve from our early fall weather has left us as quickly as it came...how nice for me to be inside during the cold icky weather. I wonder why more of you humans dont go south like those tasty birds do every winter. I dont think birds are very smart, but they do have the sense to go were it is warm, when it gets cold outside, why is it again you are here?

Poetry by Todd

2009-11-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Ode to the Ladybug

I see you fly and then you crawl

and you are not a lady at all

you stick to walls and under trim

you fly away, you cannot swim

I prefer to chase a mouse

but it’s an office not a house

I guess this will have to do

because there’s nothing else but you

Celebrate national animal shelter appreciation week

2009-11-02T07:06:00.000-08:00

You know, sometimes I forget I’m a lucky cat. Lucky in the fact I have some humans to care for me. There are so many other well deserving animals (this even includes dogs) that are waiting for their lucky day.
Nov. 1-7, 2009 is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. And there is no better time to remind my dear readers to open their hearts and homes to an animal friend.
If you have been thinking about adopting a pet, there is no better time than now. The photos of the available pets will make you want to go today and bring your forever-friend home. The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society and the Second Chance Rescue Center are two of my favorite area shelters. Visit their websites, check out the animals that need a home, or make a donation of money or time.
I’m glad there is one week out of the entire year set aside to remember the importance of shelters and the service they provide to animals and the humans who love us. But really, we need all take a part in the cause of caring for the furry all year long. Because let’s face it, not all of these adorable animals are as smart, creative and brilliant as I am.
Don’t worry though, they can still make a wonderful addition to your family.

2009-10-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

Meeeoow!

Tips for a pawsitively great Halloween

2009-10-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

With Halloween upon us I feel the need to clear the air. I was previously employed by a witch. It’s true, I used to ride around on the back of her broom and scare people as often as possible. I would dye my hair black, because everyone knows you must be a black cat to work for a witch. But one day I was forced to find new employment when I developed an allergy to my fur dye (I know, ironic, a cat with allergies). That being said, I do have knowledge of the “dark side” of the business, so here are some tips if you’re going to, or hosting, a Halloween party.

If you see Frankenstein’s monster, try not to make eye contact; he’s like the guy who starts talking to you and you just can’t get away from. He also has no concept of personal space, so be prepared for some uncomfortable close talking. Side note: if he goes blank and his batteries go dead, left neck post is positive, right negativeŃget some jumper cables and you’ll be the hero of the party.

We move on to Count Dracula. He is literally 5,000 years old and still can’t get over that terrible Transylvanian accent —I vant to sock yor blud. Heck, last Thanksgiving it took us an hour to figure out what he wanted when he kept saying “I vant to brake de vishbone.”

One final warning about Vampy—with each glass of wine he thinks it’s funnier and funnier to change into a bat and scare the girls. I know, it says a lot that he’s 5,000 years old and this is his best trick to impress the ladies.

Last but not least, if you see Mr. WerewolfŃoh, where do I start—keep him away from the shoes, let him out to pee every three hours, don’t let anyone start the “throw the skeleton’s fibula” game (he’ll go all night), and God forbid he has a cold. You see, werewolves look like party favors when they sneeze. It’s normally quite funny, but they usually don’t cover their nose and with every “haachoo!” it’s like a hairy sprinkler head going off —yuck!

These tips are meant to help our readers deal with what should be a fun holiday. So, be careful and enjoy every minute of it as if it were the last, cause with the ghouls, goblins and creepy critters about, it just might be! Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha (that was supposed to be a creepy laugh)

Happy Halloween!

New breed of ‘supercats’ really?

2009-10-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Start a new file. This article will be going under the weird, true and freaky. Literally — that’s what it says on the top of the webpage.
My friends at www.news.com.au always have some crazy cat news to report. And being a cat, I’m interested. What I stumbled on was a new trend as reported about in a newspaper in the United Kingdom.
“The docile domestic kitty is being replaced by ‘supercats’ which have been cross-bred with African or South American wildcats,” the British Telegraph reports.
The story talks about the savannah, bred from a serval, a cheetah-like wildcat found in Africa. The article says that it can grow three times larger than a domestic cat and can jump seven feet vertically.
It’s a gorgeous looking cat, with the potential to eat your babies, but whatever, I mean it’s only like $11,000 American.
I read also that the savannah is banned in some US states and in Australia, where there were concerns it could kill koalas.
The Australian’s already had the Dingo who ate the baby incident, so I sense that they have learned their lesson.
The article also quoted an expert from the FAB (Feline Advisory Board) and I mention that only because I thought FAB was funny.
I have not done enough research to be for or against these new breeds of cats. All I know is that I better get fresh food or else I’m pouncing!

Writers block

2009-09-14T20:36:00.001-07:00

I was going to write here, but my human said I needed to finish my weekly column first. So if I can get that out, I promise I will come back and fill you in on my crazy antics. Otherwise, you'll just have to get Thursday's newspaper. Meow

Local artist lets me baby-sit her Animinis

2009-08-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

Something very cool happened today, this human came in with a whole collection of little kitties that get to live here at the office with me! To see them in person stop by The Lennox Independent (116 S. Main St., Lennox) we are open 8:30-5, Monday-Thursday, and sometimes Friday mornings, but the humans have been going camping lately - so you could call first, 647-2284.

Let me remind you, these little Animinis are handmade by a local artist! Check out her online store at Etsy. AND you can buy these Animinis right here in my office, the humans will help you. Pick your favorite and take it home today!

I find lots of inspiration from Loki and his human. I think you will, too!

ALSO stay tuned to learn how you can WIN an Animini Todd Necklace!

Inspiration or stalker

2009-08-06T07:10:00.001-07:00

My humans photographed this for me this morning. It was a chalk message found on the sidewalk in front of the newspaper office. I like it. I think it's like a little art show for me. Maybe I will start getting messages this way.

Paws for reflection

2009-08-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

I do from time to time, get down on myself. I think why would someone want to read my kitty-cat quips. Then I wait and wait to post anything. Lately, I have been shedding. Shedding loads and loads of kitty-cat hair. I have an owie on my arm that my humans called a cyst. I think, great now I don't want to write, my hair is falling out and I have a bum arm. Could it get any bleaker.

Then I think, come on happy Todd, get back on the keyboard.

So I do.

I remember I have humans who love me, food to eat, and a clean litter box to use. Life couldn't be better. It's never about what's happening in life, it's how you handle it.

I'm thinking of collecting my cat hair that's accumulating on everything and stuffing cat toys. How does a Todd Hair Filled Mouse sound to you?

My human loves me SO much

2009-07-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

My human loves me so much she got a mini-me to wear!

That is me... showing you her "animini-me" hand-made and designed by Loki's primate - read her blog or just tell your human to buy their own at her Etsy shop!

My human is very happy and I have to say I feel pretty loved!

What is a newspaper?

2009-07-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

[This first appeared in The Lennox Independent, July 16, 2009 as my weekly column, Todd's Tales. But it's THAT GOOD... it needs to be repeated.]

Do I sound like a broken record? I wonder that. It’s not like my philosophical ponderings change. Or do they? Let me see, I still love sunshine naps. I still love food. I still hate people who try to vacuum their cats; yes, I have heard stories.
I do like newspapers. I like the fact they are paper, not to be confused with the other types of great news outlets like tv and online stuff. I like those, too. I like websites that have all kinds of sources, that link and loop and allow you to waste countless hours reading about whatever your kitty heart desires. But newspapers. They are the kind of resource that stays around.
You can cut out a picture and stick it in a book or on the ‘fridge. You can read it and file it and roll on it if you wish. You can’t do that with any other type of news outlet.
“Why the talk of newspapers, Todd?” you may ask.
Well, I read the news. I see other newspapers, like the big guy up North cutting some jobs. It just gets a newspaper cat thinking.
If there were no newspapers, where would all the information get recorded? You can’t argue online. Because you can’t guarantee it will be there a hundred years from now or that no one will change what it originally was.
That is what a newspaper is.
A permanent record.
A marriage of ink and history.
Divorce rates are high I suppose. But I just think that maybe people are too quick to dismiss the necessity of newspapers.
I don’t think that your local newspaper will be laying anyone off, mainly because they pay me in cat food and everyone else is related. But seriously, if you like the idea of a newspaper you have to support it. Advertisers have to advertise. Subscribers have to subscribe. And a newspaper will publish your community—your births, your weddings, your city and school board meetings. It’s all going to be there. So you can have this history and your children can have this history and I can eat my catfood.

I sleep

2009-07-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

I sleep A LOT. My people (I say that as if I were a King and I had "people") like it when I sleep. Mostly because I do not run around and bother them. As if a King could bother.
But lately my dreams have left me worried.
I have a little backache.
I was thinking today, what if in my dream I was injured, and my dream seemed so real that my body was thinking, "back ache".
Maybe I was in a freak cat accident, a game of cat and mouse gone wrong. Perhaps I tried to bungee jump with my tail. I don't know where dreams may lead. That's what I'm saying.
So now I have been trying to sleep light.
To sleep calm.
To sleep with all paws firmly on the ground.

iPod annoyances

2009-07-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

There are certain things I don't get.

I don't get why humans drink coffee (see column in this week's newspaper).

I don't get why humans like babies so much.

And I don't get iPods.

For one thing, the tiny little "ear buds" humans place in their ears grosses me out. I liken it to little ear bugs and my mother cat had ear mites... trust me people, it is not a good thing.

The other thing is the name. iPod. In and of itself, someone says that - what would you think it was. Not a music machine. I mean it sounds like a vegetable. Why not call it, music player, giver of music, almighty listening device? but iPod? Come on humans, you are smarter than that.

And lastly, I'm jealous. There they sit, happily alone with their ear mites, I mean buds, stuck in their head, typing at their computer machines — ignoring me.

It's all fine and dandy, until I jump up beside them and skillfully maneuver my head under the cord and "accidentally" pull the iPod to the ground.

Haha
Cat - 1
iPod - 0

A cat that runs

2009-07-02T07:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I tear through the halls, I run through the office, I grip my kitty claws on the carpet and terrorize the humans! Why, you may wonder?

I guess because I get bored.

There is no point in being good if the people don't notice when you are.

They say, "what's gotten in to you todd?"

Shake their heads. Marvel at my SPUNK.

I am SuperCat hear me ROAR.

RESCUE People ROCK

2009-06-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

I don't typically regurgitate news releases that come into the newspaper office. But today I was feeling like this should be known. So here is the info. I will keep you posted if more news becomes available

Pit Rescue of the Great Plains Hosts the 2nd Annual Dog Days of Summer Event

[SIOUX FALLS, SD] (June 17, 2009) – Imagine being greeted everyday with animation and enthusiasm. Whether it’s a lick on the face or a wagging tail, dogs have a way of brightening up our days. But not every pet is lucky enough to have a home. Many pets are abandoned, abused or surrendered by people who can no longer care for them. During these tough economic times shelters and rescues are overrun with dogs needing a new leash on life. Area rescue organizations strive to find new, loving homes for these dogs, so once again they may become a member of a caring family – this time for life.
Pit Rescue of the Great Plains, an Ambassador for the Purina® Pro Plan® Rally to Rescue™ campaign, is hosting a community fair and adoption event on Saturday, August 8, 2009 at Petsmart in Sioux Falls, SD to raise funds and awareness for pet rescue and help local, homeless dogs find permanent homes. Over a dozen rescue groups will participate including the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society, Second Chance Rescue Center, Almost Home, Sioux Falls Animal Control, Pit Rescue of the Great Plains and many more.
“We believe these rescue dogs deserves a second chance and it’s our goal to help them find a loving and nurturing home,” said Darci Adams, President, Pit Rescue of the Great Plains. “Dog Days of Summer Rally to Rescue event enables rescue organizations like us continue to make a difference.”
The Dogs Days of Summer Rally to Rescue event was a huge success in 2009. They adopted out 26 animals and also raised over than $3,000 for participating groups. This annual event aims to raise funds and awareness for pet rescue organizations throughout the area. The Rally to Rescue campaign supplies organizations like Pit Rescue of the Great Plains with free shirts to help raise funds to support their rescue efforts. Each organization is encouraged to request a donation of $15 per shirt.

People

2009-06-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

Bless their little hearts, they try, I know they do. But honestly, when you feed me - DO NOT DROP ONE PIECE IN THE WATER! It is not my fault that you are a bit clumsy in the mornings. It is your responsibility to keep that food out of the water dish. There is nothing worse than puffy water logged cat food. Well, there are worse things - I mean like starving people and wars and horrible things. But today, here in this office, that floaty food is really the worst of it.

I feel very insignificant now.

Sorry people - go out and make the world a better place, I will fish out that little piece of food with my paw. It's the least I can do.

Looking down

2009-06-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

This is me today. I'm not sad, I'm just looking down. Looking at what? I don't know. An ant. My paw. A piece of food. Doesn't really matter. Because I always look back up. Look up. Look up. Look up. Monday mantra.

Wooshing twirling magic

2009-05-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

I rarely follow my humans into the bathroom, but I was bored today. So I did. As they were washing their hands I put my front paws up on the white porcelain ring and it was amazing — water was twirling away and filling back up. I wanted to reach my paw in but they yelled at me. My new goal in life is to reach in and feel the twirling whirling water.

Now to create a plan.

I'm still kicking

2009-05-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

I've started eating again.

You would think I've traveled to the moon and back, my humans treat me like royalty. Ooooh they say, he ate!

Geesh, had I known that it would make such a big impression on them I would have done this years ago. Altho one of the humans said, and I quote, "Todd must be on his ninth life."

Ok, that just seems mean, right?

Fan Mail

2009-04-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

I feel loved today.

I wrote in the paper about feeling under the weather, and what did I get today in the mail? A get well card! From a cat named Sally (and her human named Vicki) with a P.S. note that their dog Wizzard says, "Hi!"

I love getting mail, it really makes me feel important. If you have anything you'd like to share, just send it to: Todd the Office Cat, 116 S. Main, PO Box 76, Lennox, SD 57039.

Strings... unravel me

2009-04-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

I was reading this week's Newsweek issue and came across the commonly used, "money with stings attached" phrase. It just got me thinking. Working at a newspaper, as a cat columnist, I guess you could say I work for food and not money. So no strings for me. At least none I can think of. But can you take anything without strings attached.

While I eat my kitty kibble I am thinking, now when do they expect that column done. Does everyone do that? Think about what they need to do to be "even".

That explains the popularity of the string theory. When you deposit your paycheck, there are strings attached.... you have a job to do, that's the string that tangles up your time. Or is it just a job, the money merely payment, no strings attached. Expectations... are they the strings?

I like yarn balls.

Are they the strings?

I am so glad to be a cat and not have to think like these incredibly complicated humans.

Move Over, this kitty needs some love

2009-04-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

My favorite spot is sitting behind one of the girls on their office chairs. But apparently I am "a pain". Let me explain. In our office, there are three people who work here. First I sit behind Anne. She also has a coat on her chair. So it is her coat, me, and her sitting on this teeny tiny office chair. I get a little bored starring at her back, so I start to nibble on this plastic string piece on her coat. It was quite fun. When suddenly she yells, "Todd is eating my coat!"

She tells me to get down and then examines her coat as if I had ruined it - which I did not. I don't get down. So she does what she always does when she is tired of me, she carries me over to Kelli. Kelli... I wouldn't call her my favorite, but I will say she's the one who usually cleans the liter box.

So As Anne puts me down behind Kelli on her teeny-tiny chair, I accidentally get my claws stuck in her shirt. Now she blamed Anne and not me, so I was allowed to stay. As she types on her keyboard, I kept trying to push my head under her elbow, so I could see what she was doing. She kept elbowing me in the head, saying, "Quit it, I'm trying to work."

So I hopped down and went to Debbie. She said, "Oh, come here, Todd!" And I jumped up unto her teeny-tiny chair and curled up to sleep.

I love my humans.

More pet-peeves

2009-04-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of pet-peeves. I’ve shared them before. But since one of my pet-peeves is human forgetfulness... I’ll reiterate.
I am fat. I’ve got that. Quit reminding me, I know. Pet-peeve top on my listŃrude remarks about the fat cat.
I love the summer sunshine. The warmth, the angle at which it shines in the front door, the yellow-drippey-ness of it. My pet peeve then is this erratic weather. Just be summer already.
Another aggravation would have to be the news. Keep this quiet as I work for a “news”paper. Although it is more national news that ranks on my pet-peeve list. The news should have a disclaimer: *Watching this broadcast may cause less hopeful or enthusiastic living in viewers. Be prepared to require Prozac.
I’m not one of those petulant pets that lets every little annoyance ruin my day, however. I have the cure all for the bad day blues.
It’s called a cat nap.

Excuse me while I hack up a hair ball

2009-04-09T07:43:00.000-07:00

There are things that make me want to roll over, cover my eyes and sleep the day away. Nothing personal or anything, but if one more person comments on my weight challenged body, I will literally hack a hair ball on their shoe.
Apparently with fame, comes judgement. I know how Lindsey-Paris-What’s-her-name must feel. Under a microscope at every angle.
Ahhh, but the life of a cat is so much different from the blonde
rehab-ers. I can’t complain, the girls at the office, they still fill the cat food dish every day, give me fresh water AND let me sit behind them on their chairs.
It’s just that some days, I feel like the world is out to get me. That I am judged, and unfairly judged, just because I am a genius cat, who writes a column for a newspaper, and happens to weigh 20 pounds, give or take five. I wanted to vent, and I have, so thank you.
After this week’s column, I will not make mention again of hacking up hair balls on anyone’s feet, because I know that bothers you humans. Read this to your cats though, they will get a kick out of it.

This week's column

2009-04-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

No one will get this until they read my column in this week's Lennox Independent. In the column that comes out in stands tomorrow, I discuss one of the many benefits of catnip!

Catnip Compounds Curb Asian Lady Beetles, see details!

Newspaper Contest

2009-04-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

It’s time to get creative!

Send us your best idea for using the newspaper in a new way, after you have read it, of course! Make a craft, like this basket designed by our editor, Debbie Schmidt. I think it works great for storing cat food!

You have until April 30, 2009 to submit your project by either dropping it off at our office, located at 116 S. Main, Lennox or submitting a photo of you with your project. Please have yourself in the photo so we can be sure YOU made it! Email photos to kelli@lennoxnews.com

One winner will be chosen and receive a GREAT Prize Package that includes : $25 Gift Certificate to Sunshine Foods, Lennox, $25 Gift Certificate to Lewis
Family Drug, Lennox, and two Buffets at the Lennox Pizza Ranch!

EVERYONE who enters will receive a certificate for a FREE Classified ad in The Lennox Independent (a $5.00 value).

Official Rules: Project must be made with THE LENNOX INDEPENDENT or The Worthing Enterprise newspapers, you can use any other material with the newspaper. Project must be made by you! Open to all ages. Absolute deadline is Thursday, April 30 at 5:00 p.m.

Winter Weather Blues

2009-04-04T21:37:00.000-07:00

Those of you who are lucky enough to live in SD know how fun this "Spring" season can be. I was just flipping through my CATalog of catnip gardening when the wind picked up and the sidewalks got white. Still, even now, the snow seems to be drifting down. I watch it through the glass door and long for warmer days.

As you can see in my illustration, I am in the Blizzard Watch or is that Blizzard Warning, the white and off white colors blend together. Not that it matters, because the weather never follows instructions anyway.

Feline Well-Being

2009-04-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

I get a lot of attention I know. Is it ever enough one could wonder?
Nope. Pretty sure it's not.
Although I have to admit there are times I want to shut myself into the back room and be alone, completely alone. I have been known to ignore my human's calls when they look for me.
I think everyone needs a break from everyone else from time to time.
Although now when I hear that kitty food can crack open... I come running.
A cat is not a solitary animal. Much like my human friends, we crave attention, need our friends, and love having our family around.
It's a fine balancing act for the feline well-being. Be with people enough of the time that you feel loved... but not so much that you want to claw their little human eyes out.
A balancing act indeed.

Food for thought

2009-03-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

If you stick your tongue out at dry cat food long enough...

You will get the good stuff!

How it all began

2009-03-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

In the February 22, 2007 edition of the weekly newspaper, The Lennox Independent you could read my first "Todd's Tales". I am proud to say it has become a regular weekly column ever since!

I came to live at The Lennox Independent office, when one of my human owners developed an allergy. Apparently men become weakened with age and can't handle the awesome-ness that cats are. So my human owner, Kelli, being the dedicated feline-parent she is, decided she could not live without me! Rather than divorcing the so called "allergic" husband she took me to work!

I have been here about five years. I have this amazing red bed now, it replaced this other amazing blue bed. Anyway, every week I write a column for the newspaper. I enjoy readers who stop in to visit or send me letters. But I just have so much to say, I thought, let's blog!

So stay tuned dear readers, the cat is here to stay!