The Big Piney Woods Cats

Sad News

2011-08-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

It is with great sadness I pass on the news that Sue Jackson passed away from brain cancer on Aug. 12. Her blog Edsel The Pooch was one of the first ones we read. Sue came west to visit us several years ago. We got along wonderfully, like old best, friends. It will be a visit I will always cherish. It must have taken a lot of nerve for her to come out like she did, not knowing us or what to expect. Sue, I think of you often, I have missed emailing and reading your blog. The blogosphere has lost a wonderful lady.

CalicomMom Toni

I'm Back!

2011-08-05T21:23:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am back, finally! Momma has been too busy at the shelter to help me, Precious refuses to help me, Mittens is always sleeping. But, yes, here I am, on my favorite in all this world place, my sack. It is MINE, ALL MINE. I sit on it, sleep on it, put my toys on it. It is my home base, I am safe on my sack.

~Miracle 4Paws

P. S. Yes, Miss Precious is doing very well, I can pick on her again and momma doesn't get all hollery at me. Well, most of the time.

Me And "The Brat"

2011-07-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

I was on my towel, minding my own business (as usual) and the Little Varmit attacked me (like she does all the time.) Now she wants to be all buddy-buddy. She is actually TOUCHING me and I am pretending I don't notice. She is such a nuisance and soooo spoiled. She is really growing, but then, all she does is eat! She is vain as well, likes to look at herself in the mirror. She has Momma fooled, Daddy........not so much. When will she ever grow up???

Precious Flower, aka Squirt

I Love Water!

2011-07-13T21:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, momma, please turn the waters on so I can drink. This waters is the best, much better than the waters in the bowl (although Mittens' waters is very good.) I love to put toys in the waters bowls, a sign "Miracle was here." I really do like waters, I must say. I also like chewing on toothbrushes and sticking my nose in your glass. Daddy says I can chew on Momma's toothbrush all I want!!

Miracle 4Paws

My Portrait Photo

2011-07-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

I am 4 1/2 months old, almost a teenager! This is my awesome portrait photo. Momma took it because I am graduating 6th grade!! I got the following grades:

Cat Speak .......A
Running and Jumping......A
Balancing and Climbing.....B
Mouse Hunting.....A
Getting Along With Other Cats.....D (Miracle is too overbearing and doesn't respect her elders)
Manners.....C (Miracle needs some work here)
Listens .....D (Miracle doesn't pay attention and is a real cut-up in class)

Momma says I need to work on the the last three............a lot!!!

Miracle 4 Paws

Attack Mode

2011-07-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

I am in attack mode, watch out Squirt, I am gonna get you.

Miracle 4Paws

Precious is Home!!

2011-07-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

I picked her up at 5:30 today. The vet fed her and she kept it down. We think she just ate too much for her sensitive stomach, no more free feeding. Her blood work all came back great! It is going to be trial and error to find what her tummy will tolerate. She only gets a tsp. every hour, but she still isn't eating much, so that isn't a problem. Thanks for all the well wishes!!!

Calicomom Toni

Precious Update

2011-07-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

I had to take Squirt back to the vet today. She vomited 8 times in 24 hours and can't keep anything down. I am really upset and worried as she was doing so good, her stitches were taken out on Wed. and she was her old self. The vets seemed puzzled as well and they are doing blood work and she is staying tonight.

Calicomom Toni

Off To See TED

2011-07-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

I went to TED's with Precious the other day. It was for my "well check." I hissed........ a lot!! I hissed when she took my temp, when she listened to my heart, when she looked in my ears, when she putted me on the scale, and especially when she gave me my booster shot! I hissed about a gazillion times and they all laughed at me!!! I was as fierce as fierce could be, but they laughed and TED said I was a "spitfire."

Miracle 4Paws

I got my stitches out (I was furry brave and, unlike Miracle, didn't growl or hiss or cause a fuss.) I was pronounced healthy, even gained 4 ounces!

Precious (Squirt)

Evil Towel

2011-06-26T14:21:00.000-07:00

I got you now, Evil Towel.

You are as good as dead.

Tasty

The Winner!

Our New Tree

2011-06-26T13:55:00.001-07:00

Looking sweet and innocent.

Demonstrating how to kill the mousey.

Looking sweet and innocent.

Attack!

I Am SOOO Cited!!!

2011-06-24T06:31:00.001-07:00

I heard Momma talking to Daddy about "putting a tree together today that is arriving in The Big Piney Woods." Squirt told me a man in brown shorts and a noisy truck is going to come deliver it! She said it will be in a box (yeah) and comes in pieces, but when Daddy puts it together, I can be a monkey again! I am soooo cited!!!

Oh, Precious Squirt is doing much better. She said she will probably snoopervise Daddy putting the tree together. ME too! I wanna helps!!

Little Naughty Miracle 4Paws

Any Ideas?

2011-06-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Precious Squirt isn't eating real well although she seems to be feeling pretty good. I have the wet food I mix with water and she will lap up a little if I offer it to her on the bed. The same with some dry food, she will only eat it if I offer it and then only a few. She used to eat non-stop and I was thinking of not free feeding her, so this is so out of character. I don't think, if I didn't offer the food under her nose, she would eat. Am I being too impatient, seeing what she went through? Any insight sure would be appreciated as this worry wort mom would love to hear from you.

CalicoMom Toni

New Cat Tree

2011-06-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

I bought the girls a new cat tree, it should be here on Friday. No more carpet, this one is made of faux fur with sisel rope. Go HERE to view. Amazing price and free shipping. I bought one identical to this one in tan, for the shelter, several years ago and it has held up really well. Baby Miracle is lost without her jungle gym. Yes, it needs to be assembled, good thing I have a husband that is great at that sort of thing, the instructions really stink. I will be passing the blog back to the girls.

Calicomom Toni

Precious Update 9

2011-06-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

My girl is home! She is purring and talking to me. I have a cage set up for her but she really doesn't want to be in it. Dr. Kathy says she needs to get a little exercise but she seems happy just to be on the bed, her favorite spot. She is Happy, I am Happy! Miracle keeps wanting to jump on her so she had to go into time out.

CalicoMom Toni

Precious Update 8

2011-06-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kathy did the exploratory surgery on Precious and found she had ingested carpet fibers that had packed at the entrance to her large intestine. We have wood floors, the carpet fibers came from the cat tree. Each time the cats scratch, small pieces of carpet are shed. I am constantly sweeping them up. I never knew she was eating them and I guess I never would have thought it would have caused a problem. She also has a lot of fat build up around her insides and will probably go on special food to help eliminate this fat pad (she is 9 pounds, down a whole pound from last week,so she is not fat by any means.) This extra fat causes pressure on her intestines. The vet also suggested a lion cut to help with the ingesting of fur. She took a biopsy of something, but I failed, in my excitement, to write it down. She is coming out of the anesthetic and might come home tomorrow!!! Thank you so much for all your support, your purrs and thoughts helped get Precious and me, too, through a real trying time.

CalicoMom Toni

Precious Update 7

2011-06-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

Took her back to the vet this morning. She is going to have exploratory surgery later on today. I am numb. My poor sweet girl, purr for her.

CalicoMom Toni

Precious Update (6)

2011-06-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

I just picked her up from the vet where she was very stressed and unhappy (she was there 3 days.) The vet told me it is possible it is a huge hairball (she has always had them, maybe a couple a week that she would vomit up) and will pass through. She still hasn't had a bowel movement but the vet felt confident that she would if she came home to familiar surroundings. She is very happy and settling in nicely. I gave her a good brushing and will be giving her the greasy hairball stuff. Her and baby Miracle did some nose kissing before play boxing. Irritable bowel is the tentative diagnosis. I will know more when the barium passes. She is eating!!! Thanks to all you wonderful people for your concern!!

CalicoMom Toni

Precious Update 5

2011-06-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

Precious continues about the same, no poop, but at least no bloody diarrhea and no vomiting. If she hasn't gone by this afternoon the vet is going to force feed her and then take another x-ray and try to find out what is going on. Her appetite is nil. I am hoping I can bring her home tonight, that something positive happens. Thanks for all your support and well wishes.

Calicomom Toni

Precious Update 4

2011-06-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

The vet called earlier this AM and told me she hasn't vomited but hasn't passed the barium either. So, it is a waiting game. Now I don't know if she will be coming home today or not. Still no diagnosis. Thanks so much for coming by and giving your support. Will let you know when I get some news.

This thing came on so fast, no warning. From a healthy, vibrant cat who loved playing with kitten, to a sick, despondent cat. In the back of mind I keep wondering if she ate something. I am so careful and she doesn't seem to ever chew on things. She is 100% indoors.

CalicoMom Toi

Another Update on Precious (Squirt)

2011-06-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

I took her back to the vet tonight at 7:30 after she vomited again. She is there for the night. She was given fluids, something for nausea, and barium. If she vomits the barium, there is an obstruction, if it passes through there isn’t. It might be a case of bad stomach flu and it will just take time to heal. She isn’t running a temp, never has. I will know more tomorrow, taking it a step at a time. Thanks for all your concern and well wishes. Will keep you posted.

CalicoMom Toni

Precious Flower Update

2011-06-08T21:18:00.000-07:00

Precious' blood work came back fine, except for low white blood count, indicative of a virus. She is being treated for a viral infection (intestinal.) This encompasses giving fluids and an anti nausea vaccine (this was done when I took her to the vet tonight.) She told me to withhold water and food for 12 hours, then give her water, followed by boiled human chicken. We need to get her gut working again, hopefully that is all it will take and she will be 100%. She is looking at me with the saddest eyes, begging for something to eat. She is playing and very happy now, hope it continues. Thank you all for the wonderful comments, what a great bunch of people the catblogosphere has!!! I love you all!

CalicoMom Toni

I Am OK,Precious Flower (Squirt)....Not So Much

2011-06-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

I got spaded but I don't remember much of anything. Momma said I did good and gave me chicken and treats!!

Squirt has some problems, we hope they aren't real serious. Momma took her to TED today after she vomited (4 times) yellow liquid and she had tar poop with blood in it. TED did an x-ray and blood work. The x-ray shows her organs are pushed over, the blood work is due back tomorrow. If the blood work comes back normal she will be first treated for IBS, if that doesn't help an ultrasound. Momma is really worried, it came on so fast.

Miracle 4Paws

I Am Not Broke!

2011-06-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Momma says I have to go tomorrow to get fixed. But, I am not broke! If it ain't broke, don't fix it.......right? What does she mean? She says I will be going to TED's until the afternoon and I will have a sore tummy and be sleepy. The best part is, she promised to adopt me and make me her kitten on Toosday. Please let me know what to expect. Thank you kindly.

Miracle 4 Paws

UPDATE: Miracle is home. She did just fine and ate a little chicken. She has to be confined to her carrier for a while, at least until evening.

Helping and Nicknames

2011-06-02T20:15:00.001-07:00

First I helped Momma make the bed. Then I helped her sweep the floor and my final contribution was folding laundry. She told me I was a big girl!

Momma calls me all sorts of things. Baby Baby Baby, Monkey Butt, Turtle Butt, Wee One, MeerCat. Daddy calls me Little Varmit. They call me No..........a lot. My real true name is Miracle 4Paws thank you very much!

Miracle 4Paws

Chips

2011-05-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

I has to go to the shelter place next week and get a chocolate chip in my neck. Momma says it is so if I get lost, they will be able to find me, but I never go outside. I suppose it is because I can disappear and Momma looks all over the house for me cuz I am good at hiding. Do you think I won't be able to hide when the chocolate chip is in my neck? Will my neck taste good? Mittens told me she has a potato chip in her neck and Precious said, "no it is a gambling chip." They are probably all wrong and it is a wood chip. Then, I has to go to TED and get sprayed. Then Momma says she will adopt me and I will be her little girl forever and ever!! THE END

Miracle 4Paws

Do I Look More Mature?

2011-05-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Momma says I grow a lot when she isn't looking. She says I am getting to look like a miniature cat, do you think so?

Miracle 4Paws

Mittens Here

2011-05-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hi everycat! I just wanted to let you know I am still around and still doing pretty good for almost 18 years . I stay on my blue bed most of the time but I do sit on Momma's lap when she is eating. I give Momma a lot of love, I always have a purr for her. I have good days and bad days, but I still have a great appetite.

There is a little monster cat here. She is colored a lot like me, but the resemblance ends there. She is a nuisance, but I kind of like her.

Mittens Pollypaws

Mistrie Rose Here

2011-05-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say hi and tell everyone I am happy, healthy, and fit. The fairies are starting to come out of hibernation. Come on ofur if you want to watch them whirl and twirl and celebrate spring.

Mistrie Rose

Putting My Paw Down

2011-05-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Somecat has to show her who is boss! She needs lots of training, she is so out of control.

Precious Flower (aka Squirt)

Too Skinny?

2011-05-17T11:59:00.000-07:00

Momma says I am all legs, ears, tail and eyes! Daddy says I am lanky. I say I am kitten, with tons of energy, no time to eat or nap, must explore, chase, harass and then start all over again.

My favorite toy is a plastic drinking straw, followed by Precious' tail. I also have a paper sack that won't stay up anymore, but it is my "home base." I am an easy keeper.

Miracle 4Paws

Momma, please

2011-05-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

I am trying to nap here.

Miracle 4Paws

Chilling

2011-05-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

with my Daddy.......

Miracle 4Paws

Snoopervising

2011-05-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have to help Momma in the morning get ready. She puts beige cream on her face and then some pink stuff on her cheeks. She puts black stuff on her eye lashes and sprays stinky stuff on her fur. She is always telling me what a great job I do putting on my eyeliner; I think that is why she likes it when I help her. I am good about helping, that is the kind of girl I am.

I am getting more patient with the little monster. Daddy got mad at me when I bopped her too hard on the head, but she had it coming. I really like her and she has helped with my depression over lossing Miss Patches (I hid upstairs all the time, but now I am out and about.) Momma didn't know us cats get depressed, jut like people, when they loose somecat they love. But, I am all happy again.

Precious Flower

It wasn't me

2011-05-09T14:09:00.000-07:00

who knocked the vase over, I am trying to pick it up.

Miracle 4Paws

I Am 2 Months Old

2011-05-06T16:15:00.000-07:00

and interested in everything! I am practicing being a lady.......Precious is always harping at me to be more ladylike. But, I would rather catch a fly..............and eat it! Is that ladylike?

Miracel 4Paws

Just Little Me

2011-05-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Doing what I do best, looking innocent and planning the next naughties I can do.

Miracle 4Paws

Fun and Games

2011-04-28T14:23:00.001-07:00

Me loves to play, play, play. I think Precious is starting to like me. She doesn't hiss anymore and she actually played tosies with me today. I am the best jumper, Momma says I have jumping beans in my feets. She says I am spring loaded. She also kisses on me, wayyyyy too much!!

Miracle 4Paws

I Am Crabilated

2011-04-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

This little monster that everyone thinks is so cute, is really making me a little....no a lot, upset. Today she tried attacking my tail. She wiggles her little hiney and jumps at me, then runs back. I get no respect.

Precious (Squirt)

My Purrday is Today!!

2011-04-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

I am two months old today!!! Happy Purrday to me.

In other news, I get stuck up in the cat tree. I can get up, but I can't get down so good. I cry and cry, Momma says too bad, you got yourself into this situation..........then, in about 5 minutes, she takes me down. So I just run right back up there!

My two favorite toys are the crinkle ball (that was my momma's favorite) and my green mousey. I carry green mousey between my tiny teefe and talk about it. I losted the crinkly ball. Momma says it is somewhere, along with three straws that have disappeared. I loves straws too!!! I loves to play. I have to go now and play......

Miracle 4Paws

A Middle Name For Me

2011-04-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

I am pretty sleepy in the photo. I am on my Daddy's lap (of course) and just got done with a play session. I love to curl up on his shoulder and give him a good purr.

Momma gave me a middle name.....it is 4Paws. So I am Miracle 4Paws of the Big Piney Woods.

In other news, I climbed up on the dining room table again. Momma kept saying a bad word to me (no) but I ignored her. She put me on the floor, I ran around like my butt was on fire, and climbed right back up. She said it is a good thing I am so cute! Then she sprayed me with a water bottle. I ignored that, after all there were batteries on the table that needed to be knocked around. Let me see.........what can I do tomorrow.....

My Cat Momma is doing great, but I sure do miss her. Momma and Daddy really miss her, too.

Miracle 4Paws

Momma Got Sick

2011-04-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

My Human Momma had to take my Cat Momma up to Vet Kathy's right away, quick, this morning. Last night, Momma and I had hearty play, she was feeling fine, except her milk tasted funny, so I didn't nurse her. This morning at 5:00 AM, when Human Momma opened the door to let us out, she couldn't find Cat Momma. She was behind the door, in the litter box, limp, running a fever and very sick with diarrhea. The area around her nipple was hard and hot. Human Momma knew immeditely it was mastitis and before Vet Kathy opened Human Momma had my Cat Momma in the carrier. Vet Kathy opened the door, took one look, and gave Cat Momma a shot and some fluids. She is resting peacefully and eating and drinking. She is on the mend. Human Momma said mastitis is life threatening; thank goodness Vet Kathy opened early and lives so close.

Human Momma is working at the shelter tomorrow and will be making a vet run with one of their sick cats, so she will check in on my Cat Momma and give her a proper goodbye. I think this will involve tears and hugs.

I was maybe a tad naughty today. I learned how to get on the eating table by climbing the back of the dining room chair. Before that, (Momma was gone to the shelter) I spent quality time all day with my Daddy..........ALL DAY......so, as far as he is concerned, I can do no wrong!! And, that is the way I like it.

Little Miracle

My Momma And Me

2011-04-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

This is the first photo taken of me, when I was less than a week old, with my Momma.

Little Miracle
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Momma is going to live with my vet tomorrow. We will miss her so much. What a pleasure she has been, what a sweet cat. She loves to talk, greet people, play with her kitten, follow you everywhere, touch you with her paw............I am so glad she is going to such a wonderful home.

CalicoMom Toni

Sitting On Daddy's shoulder

2011-04-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Here I am sitting on Daddy's shoulder, helping him with his puzzle. I love to sleep on his lap, too.

I am trying to learn how to drink water, but I must be doing something wrong because it makes me sneeze. I did learn how to do a summer sault and I climbed up to almost the top of the cat tree. (Daddy rescued me because I didn't know how to get down.)

Little Miracle

Update On Mittens

2011-04-16T09:09:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, Mittens was diagnosed with stomach cancer 1 1/2 years ago and given 2 months to live. At the time, I was told nothing could be done. Happily, she is still with us, sadly, I don't think she has long, but she has fooled us before. She stays in "her cupboard" (a lower cupboard in the kitchen with blankets in it) most of the time, only leaving to use the litter box or eat. She stil has a good appetitie and eats two cans of Fancy Feast a day. I did find blood in her stool yesterday. She was pretty sick for a while but snapped back. I won't let her suffer and I know she doesn't have much of a life, but it is her life and she tells me with her purrs and head butts she wants to stick around.

Calicomom Toni

Wow!

2011-04-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

Momma read me all sorts of letters (I think that is what you call them) from cats on a spider web. Momma said they were all on a line so I think they were fishing. I am a tad confused, but, hey, I am liddle. I would ask Precious what it all means but she growls at me. Anyway, thank you all so much for writing to me!!!

I just discovered sunshine. Oh, oh, oh, and see, I can climb the scratching post all by myself and balance, without falling off (well most of the time.)

A Little Miracle

Exciting News

2011-04-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Losing Patches was terribly devastating to all of us in the Big Piney Woods. It has been almost 5 months and the pain is still so great. I kept looking for a sign from her, something ,anything...........and then a miracle. A momma cat in labor was brought to the shelter where I volunteer. The people who brought her in said it had been at least a full day, no sign of any kittens. I rushed her to our vet, the same vet that set Patches free. She did a "C" section where she was only able to resuscitate one of the kittens. Two were stuck in the birth canal and one died shortly after birth. I fostered Mom and baby, bringing them home 5 days after Miracle was born. She is 7 weeks old tomorrow, now a permanent part of the Big Piney Woods and, I feel, sent by Patches. She is a calico, and has one orange leg and one black leg, just like Patches had. Happily, her momma is being adopted by the wonderful vet lady. So.........meet Miracle

Hi......my name is Miracle. I reside in the Big Piney Woods with my sisters Mittens, Precious, and Mistrie. My hobbies are running, jumping, climbing, playing with my momma's tail, biting everything, getting into everything, purring in my Daddy's ear and being too cute.

Thank You

2010-11-21T15:17:00.000-08:00

My heart goes out to all of you! Thank you so much for everything you said about my sweet Lady Patches. I had no idea there would be such an outpouring of love for her, even from strangers. Also, thanks to those of you who posted on your blog about her and sent others by.

Maybe you wonder why I don't have any recent photos up of my girl. I chose not to take any. I debated, believe me, but I decided it would be too heartbreaking to look at them, I prefer to remember her the way she was before she got sick. I can still see her that way, and hope that time will erase that memory, it wasn't good and weighs on me heavily.

If tears could be measured I think I have cried an ocean.

I am hoping that someday she will return to me, in a dream maybe, on the breeze, or in a shadow. Maybe a soft "mack mack", a touch of whiskers on my face, a paw on my arm; something to signal "all is well."

Again, thank you, everyone!!

CalicoMom Toni

A Tribute To Patches

2010-11-20T09:24:00.001-08:00

Miss Patches Lady

1997 - Nov. 19, 2010

Oh, dear Patches, where do I begin? I guess it was when you came walking up our driveway after being abandoned by your previous owners. You were an "in charge" cat, even then. You told me, "I am here to stay, like it or not." And.......we loved it. You always were a Daddy's girl and preferred his lap. Funny how, when he was holding you and I came in the door, you would get down, really quick, like I would be jealous.

You were finally diagnosed with Auto Immune Deficiency (Lupus) right before your final breaths. Three different vets and tons of blood work, all of them thought it was thyroid. It was the AID attacking your thyroid, like it was attacking the rest of your body. I am not going into the ravages this thing took on your little emancipated body and I don't blame anyone; AID is very rare in felines, leave it to you to get something rare, you were a rare find! You fought such a valiant fight, such a brave little calico girl.

We will miss you signature "mack mack" and your soothing purr. We had eleven wonderful years with you. Many memories, but one that stands out is when I was diagnosed with an eye condition (macular hole) that finally warranted surgery. I cam home crying, you were in the gold chair, and I saw a big tear in your eye! You were a compassionate soul, a well seasoned traveler (going to Laughlin Nv. with Mittens for three years and staying in condos) and went camping in the Idaho woods. The first time I put your leash on, you fell over and couldn't get up. So funny. You loved it outdoors so I would put you out on our upstairs deck; you never tried to climb down, which would have been easy for you. You would scare me when you jumped on the railing in our bedroom, it was a long way down. You knew when I accidentally left the closet door open that houses the pump (someplace you were forbidden to go) and I could here you opening the door. You tolerated Mittens and Precious and actually got to love them, in your own cat way. They miss you, too, you know.

Three nights ago you slept between us all night. Now, this was unheard of as you never did that. If you stayed on the bed it was at the foot, or next to Dad, and only stayed a short time. We know you were saying goodbye. I touched you many times that night, always received a soft chirp. I could go on forever........

This morning we took your little body, wrapped in a blue towel with two of your favorite toys, and we laid you to rest in the kitty cemetery in the Big Piney Woods. You join Itsy Bitsy, a two day old kitten I fostered but was taken from me in a few hours; his momma refused to nurse him. There is a tile with a butterfly on it, on your grave and a candle is burning.

This closes another chapter in our life. I hope someday,the pain won't be so raw, the hurt so deep, and I can remember you with a smile, not with all these tears. Thank goodness for all the photos I have, The Big Piney Woods blog, and the website I made called "The Calico Girls" that I kept a copy of. (no longer online) You will always be a part of our lives, in our hearts you reside. Your pain is over and ours has just begun.

Love and kisses to you, lovely girl, RIP.

Momma Toni, Daddy, Ron, Mittens, Mistrie, Precious Flower

Patches is an angel kitty

2010-11-19T18:19:00.000-08:00

My sweet little girl was helped to the bridge at 4:15 today. RIP doll girl. We love and miss you so!

Calico Mom, Calico Dad, Mittens, Mistrie, and Precious Flower

Patches Update

2010-11-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

I took Patches to the vet thinking probably I would be saying goodbye. The vet said she was "on the fence with this one." Her ears, from the horrible thyroid meds she was so allergic to, are healing and her temp was down. These are both good signs. However, she is one sick kitty still. The vet also said it is possible all the meds aren't out of her system yet, her system has been through a lot and may take sometime to come back. This is only a MAYBE, but it was enough for me. She gave her fluids, B Vitamins and Steroids. I think all those kitty purrs worked. Thank you all!

Calicomom Toni

Patches

2010-11-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

My poor little Patches...she is loosing her brave battle. Please purr for her. My heart is breaking for this dear sweet little girl who ruled the Big Piney Woods. Patches, I love you so, you are going to be so very missed.

All my love,

CalicoMom Toni

Update

2010-11-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

It has been such a long time since I have brought you up to date on the BPW Cats.

Mittens is still real good, her weight is stable and she is happy and content. She was given a few months, over a year ago! I feel so blessed to still have her.

Patches started loosing weight. I took her to two different vets numerous times, all for blood work, as her thyroid is overactive. She gets the meds in her ear as the oral meds made her very ill. She is only 7 lbs now, down from 11, yet they say nothing is wrong. She spends most of her time in front of the fire, warming her frail little body. She seems so tiny now.

Precious needs to loose a few pounds, but she is part Maine Coon and they are a big cat. She loves to have me pick her up and toss her over my shoulder, her favorite place. She sleeps with us every night and follows me around, discussing "things." She likes to pick on Patches and I am constantly after her; she thinks it is playing but Patches sees it differently.

Mistrie is fat and sassy as ever. I made her a new bed in the woodshed, like I do every year. She still is shy and reserved, guess she will always be that way. She is a great mouser and never wanders beyond her self imposed boundries.

Well, that is pretty much it. I am still spending my three days at the shelter and am doing fostering of kittens now, as well.

Mom to the girls

Latest News

2010-04-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

Hi all:

Sorry it has been so long since I posted. Here is an update from the BPW.

Mittens is fine. She was given two months in Nov. and, while she sleeps most of the time, is great healthwise.

I have been working 3 days at the animal shelter, taking care of the cats and taking photos for Petfinder. I love the work and photography is my latest passion!

I won't be blogging on here, will update you on Mittens and any of the other BPW cats. Mistrie is great and had a great winter. Patches and Precious are doing great, as well.

Hope everyone has a great spring.

Hugs, Toni

Report

2009-11-27T20:44:00.000-08:00

Everything is fine here in the Big Piney Woods. Mittens is doing great.

~Precious Flower~

Little Man, Revisited

2009-11-10T20:40:00.000-08:00

Momma saw Little Man at the shelter today. The lady who adopted him brought him by and Momma got to hug and kiss on him and take pichers. He is all grown now, a true Mancat.

My Ears Are Fine, Thank You

2009-11-09T13:51:00.000-08:00

Momma seems to think I needed my ears cleaned (which I didn't) so she got this oily stuff and put it on a cotton ball and swabbed my ears! I got real upset and walked away in a huff. She says Precious needs hers cleaned (which she does) and so does Mittens. I think I will go warn Mittens of the upcoming event. As far as Precious goes, she deserves it; she is always picking on me!!!

~Patches Lady~

Feeling Great

2009-10-31T13:24:00.001-07:00

Yes, I feel real good. Momma gives me medicine wrapped in a treat........she thinks I don't know what it is, but I do. It does really help. Momma even said the word remishun. All I know is I feel great, I even run and play a little.

~Mittens Pollypaws~

Mittens Update

2009-10-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

Mittens seems to feel pretty good, although, she doesn't eat much. I have tried everything I can think of, including baby food. She will eat canned chicken but seems to prefer the juice so I keep adding water and letting it soak. She eats a few crunchies, but not enough. She is taking her steroids in a pill pocket, but if she won't eat them I have decided not to force her to take them, anymore. It is so upsetting for her; and me. All in all, she is doing very well. Thanks for all your wonderful comments.

~CalicoMom Toni~

One Day At A Time

2009-10-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

I am taking things a day at a time. I am making more time for Mittens, hugging her, loving her, holding her, petting her. Each day is precious now. I have spent time looking at photos of her, I know, when the time comes, I won't be able to do that, not for a while. It is hard to wrap my mind around the fact she won't always be here. She will always be one of the Big Piney Woods Cats, her spirit will always reside here. She is giving me sweet memories to cherish, on this her final journey. My heart is already broken and I feel a terrible loss. Thank goodness she doesn't have a clue, one nice things our animal friends share. She looks at me with her loving, trusting eyes. She isn't eating much and I won't force the steroids on her anymore. They seem to have stopped working, anyway. She has real bad times and real good times. That is my wish........time.....

Thanks for all the gotcha day well wishes.

With tears,

~CalicoMom Toni~

What A Great Day!

2009-10-02T05:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you who came and snuggled with me. We had so much fun and it was so good to see all my furriends, again. If you want to reminisce, like I have been, you can go to January, 2006 and read all about the Napathon and who came. Momma says I need to snuggle her now.

~Mittens Pollypaws~

It's Me, Mittens

2009-10-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

Hi to all my furriends...

I just want to thank all of you for your kind thoughts and wishes. I don't know what they mean cuz I feel fine. Momma looks sad at me and has been snuggling me and giving me all sorts of good things.

I have been spending time reminiscing. My good furriend Victor reminded me about the Napathon. That was the first kitty party, and we had such fun teaching everycat how to teleport.. We also hosted the Cat Olympics, which was tons of fun. Mistrie carried the torch from Max and all the excitement helped her not to be so shy. Patches won a gold medal in the tub soccer competition. Then, I won a prize for my special big paws on the Pawprint Contest. Patches and Mistrie entered that contest, too.

A short history about me, for those who don't know........When I was 7, in 2000, I was brought to the shelter (it wasn't a no kill shelter then) where Momma was volunteering. She cleaned my cage and she was the only one I trusted. She knew my time was almost up, so she took me home and said I found my furrever home. For three years Patches and I went to Laughlin, Nevada and spent three months with Momma and Daddy in a condo . Yes, I have had a good life. I have wonderful memories and have been safe and secure and well loved in the cabin in the Big Piney Woods. I just wish I knew why Momma looks unhappy and stares at me so much. She keeps telling me she loves me, but I knew that. Patches seems nicer to me, too. She comes in my bedroom and naps and doesn't hassle me.

Again, thanks to all of you for the wonderful well wishes. Come on ofurr anytime and visit. I will be waiting for you in the guest bedroom.

Purrs,

News On Mittens

2009-09-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks to all of you for your kind words and support. It means so much to me!

The meds the vet gave Mittens seem to be helping and she is very hungry! I am giving her things she shouldn't have (she has been on special food for years, due to constipation.) She is getting stinky goodness and I will continue as long as it doesn't upset her. She loves it, poor girl is so sick of the same thing. She was very vocal after I brought her home, telling me to feed her something good. She still is very vocal, talking and talking to me and following me around. I wish I could understand her!

Again, thanks to all of you........your support is phenomenal!

~CalicoMom Toni~

Sad News

2009-09-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

My Mittens has a tumor in her small intestine, where it connects to her stomach, also it has spread into her upper chest cavity. Mittens was very good, even through the lengthy ultrasound process, on her back. I held her front paws and talked to her, she actually nodded off once and never attempted to scratch or bite, she didn't even growl, like she does when she is upset. Christine, her vet, said they could operate for the tumor in the intestine, but that doesn't address the fact it has spread. Also her age is against her. She gave her two months. I have meds to help with her appetite. It is a cold, cloudy day, the way my heart feels right now. :(

Thanks to all of you for your kind comments, they mean so much!

~CalicoMom Toni~

Upcoming Vet Visit

2009-09-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

Mittens is going to the vet tomorrow. They were booked today and she didn't seem to be ill, in fact had fun with a fly and carried on quite a conversation with me. She asks for food, but hasn't eaten in three days.

Thanks to all of you for your wonderful comments and all the purring! What great furriends you are. I will let you know the results.

~CalicoMom Toni~

Please, Purr For Mittens

2009-09-27T06:23:00.000-07:00

Sometime in the night Mittens vomited blood and mucous, no food. She hasn't eaten for a couple of days now. I am taking her to the vet tomorrow or Tuesday. Please purr for her. Thank you.

~Calicomom Toni~

Patches, Please

2009-08-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Oh, Patches, please

Come play with me

We can run and jump

On the kitty tree.

And tosie box

Maybe pounce and flee

Or hide and seek

You must agree.

Toy mice and balls

Are great fun, too

But the very best thing

Is playing with you.

~Precious Flower~

Purrty Fowlers

2009-08-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

One of Momma's fowler beds.

The cabin and more fowlers.

Parting Thoughts

2009-07-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

This is the last photo of Little Man I have. I miss him terribly. Because he was my first foster, I don't have anything to compare him to, but he has left a giant hole in my heart. I really think he was a very special boycat.

It will be a week tomorrow since he left. I know he has grown and changed and I have missed that. I will be seeing his new Momma tomorrow and then I will find out how he is doing.

So, my Little Man (who has been renamed Manny) I will always, always love you and you have a special place in my heart. Be strong, be brave, be good.

~Your Foster Momma Toni~

Some Of Little Man's Favorite Things

2009-07-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

Playing with his blue/green yarn

Hiding under the glider or foot stool

I Have Places To Go

2009-07-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

Remembering Little Man

2009-07-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

Halloween stance

Going To My Furrever Home

2009-07-23T06:23:00.000-07:00

FM has a sad look today. She told me it is because I am going to my new furrever home. I was there before, when she didn't feel good, and I really love it. There are two tiny woofies there I play with (the big cats here run from me) and a really loving Momma and Daddy, too. I have learned a lot this past week about becoming a Mancat. I can run fast and jump high. I explore everywhere and have learned the "butt wiggle" and Halloween cat stance. New Momma promises to send pichers and FM will see her at the shelter every Tuesday. I luvs you FM and thanks for taking care of me.

~Your Little Man From Siam~

Could I be Any Cuter????

2009-07-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

That Piece of Wood Is MINE!!

2009-07-21T06:11:00.000-07:00

Little Man Cat In Training

2009-07-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

It's All About Playing and Biting

2009-07-19T06:20:00.000-07:00

Little Man Photos

2009-07-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

Hi, I am Little Man

2009-07-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

I am Little Man From Siam and I am here to visit my Foster Momma for a few days before going to my furrever home. If taking pictures means she loves me, then she loves me lots. She says I am a wild and crazy kitten now, evident by the picher below. She will be helping me share photos for the next few days. I really love yarn, running fast, biting FM (Foster Momma,) sploring, whapping big Patches and making her hiss, and kissing FM on the lips. FM says I change daily and she sure is happy to have this time with me. I really love her, too.

Another Little Man Update

2009-07-16T15:17:00.001-07:00

I am going to take Little Man tonight, through the weekend, as his new Mom is going to run a marathon. I can do some final bonding with him, important for me. I will be taking lots of pictures.

~CalicoMom Toni~

A Happy/Sadness

2009-07-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Hi.....CalicoMom here. I was all set to foster Little Man From Siam until he was big enough to g be adopted. The lady who is fostering him now has decided she is going to keep him. She has fostered many cats, but always had the will power to resist.....until Little Man.......so it is with a happy/sadness I close this chapter. I know he has found the best possible home and will be so loved and adored. I will always have a special place in my heart for my first foster baby.

Little Man Is Coming Back!!!

2009-07-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

The Little Boy Baby Cat is going to be coming back here on Thursday, July 23. Momma is doing a happy dance, me.......not so much. I guess he is using the litterbox now, but still isn't weaned. His foster mom is going to be working on that.

Last night Squirt and Patches played THOE. Well, it was about 4 this morning, actually. They also flew over the bed. Now they are napping. I am too mature to partake of such nonsense.

~Mittens Pollypaws~

I will Always Love You, Little Man

2009-07-09T09:12:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy heart I had to send my Little Man to be re-fostered. I am no longer able to take care of him as my stomach issues have resurfaced. I am crying as I write this, he was so special to me...maybe I am not foster material. I feel like such a failure, last night he put his little nose on my lips, his paws on my face. I can't even look at his pictures. I won't be blogging for a while. I have an appointment with the specialist later this month. Keep Little Man in your thoughts as he starts his journey through life.

~Calicomom Toni~

Learning And Exploring

2009-07-05T06:04:00.000-07:00

I just discovered something! I have toes and they need to be licked. My feet are also good for running, but sometimes the front ones go faster than the back ones and vice versa and I do "the drunken dance." I love to stare at my Foster Momma and "get her in focus." She laughs and calls me "her little man." She says I have an "old face, very wise and serious." She says she sees changes in me everyday and that I am very brave and like to explore, but when I hear and see her, I run real fast to her and start my motor.

~Little Man From Siam~

Too Much Washing!!!

2009-07-03T05:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, my chest is wet!!! Momma is always washing me; she says I am a messy eater. She put a calico stuffed kitty that Edsel's Mom gave her in my bed and I cuddle up to it. Thank you Edsel's Mom!! I love to cuddle. Momma wraps me in a little towel so all that is sticking out is my head and carries me around. I like that, too. But I don't like getting washed......No, I don't!!!

~Baby Siam~

HERE I AM

2009-07-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

Hi:

My name is Squirt, but The Foster Lady Momma calls me Little Squirt because, as I have seen, there is another Squirt here. After a few little bumps in the road, things are going great. (I hate it when she rubs my little hiney to make me go potty and I scream and scream.) I am doing my best to win Foster Mom's heart, and I think I have succeeded. She also calls me Little Man from Siam, Little One, and Baby Boy. She thinks I am going to have long furs and I already have tufts in my ears. I have really nice white whiskers and very SHARP claws. So, without further ado........here I am.

NEWS!!!!!

2009-06-30T06:56:00.000-07:00

Momma just told us some news. She is going to FOSTER a baby Siamese from the shelter. This baby is about 3 weeks old. I guess his momma moved her other babies and never came back to move him. The people waited 24 hours (they fed him) for her to claim him, but she never did, so they brought him to the shelter. Momma is new to feeding baby kitties and is a bit scairt, but the lady who has him now is going to help her. (Momma would love any input from other foster Moms in the blogosphere.) I have a feeling this is only "the tip of the fostering iceberg." Yes, there will be pictures. Oh, his name is Squirt. Now there will be two Squirts in the house!!!! (You can see by my expression I have mixed feelings about this.)

~Patches Lady~

Do Cats Cry?

2009-06-22T06:20:00.000-07:00

Judge for yourself. This little beauty was brought in by her owner. She was up to date on shots and spayed, so she went directly to the cat room, where her owner watched through the window as her tiny life was turned upside down. Momma took pictures of her, but didn't notice, until she took them off the camera....... she had tears in her eyes!!! The next day, when Momma looked, her eyes were dry. She was adopted that day. This is Luna....

Elizabeth

2009-06-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

Momma is just way too busy at the shelter, but loving it. She says, for the time being, we can share pictures of kitties with you. This computer is so slow and gives so many problems. We tell her she needs a new one, but we think all the monies are going to the shelter. We think she couldn't spend it in a better place. So, without further ado.......here is Elizabeth, (yes, she has one gold eye and one blue eye) who got adopted in two hours!!! Oh, and she says there are at least 50 kittens in the shelter right now and she wonders what is wrong with people????

Something For Us!!!

2009-06-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

Momma keeps buying stuff for the shelter, today she said she got a pink cat cube for Room #1. Then, just as I was about to protest, she opened the door and brought in a blue one for us!!! It has a toy hanging on the top and smells wrong. I will have to fix that.

I found a sunny spot today and waited for Momma to get home. She was gone for 6 naps! Daddy went fishing for a few days so we are "home alone."

I have to go try out the new cube before Patches does....bye....

~Precious Flower~

The "Eyes" Have It

2009-05-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

Momma says she loves working at the shelter, socializing with the kitties and taking their pictures for Petfinder. She says it is a "happy sadness" when one is adopted. We don't understand what she means, how can you be happy and sad at the same time?

There was a kitty in the shelter that was gray, with the most gorgeous eyes Momma has ever seen. She says her name was Spazz and she got adopted (along with her best bud and sibling) almost immediately. Luckily, Momma got a good picture of this beauty. We are sharing it with you on a gorgeous Sunday morning in the Big Piney Woods. Happy Spring everyone.

A Crime In The Big Piney Woods

2009-05-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

We have had a goose napping!!!! The story goes like this:

Mom and Dad goose #1 hatched out 7 babies on our pond. Later that day Mom and Dad goose #2 came by with 2 babies. Geese, after they have their babies, hang close to each other, but protect their little ones. However, Mom and Dad goose #1 decided 7 wasn't enough and goose-napped Mom and Dad goose #2 babies, so they have 9 now, and Mom and Dad goose #2 are very upset. Our Daddy says he has never seen this happen before. Momma feels bad for the poor parents. I wonder if they want a ransom. Maybe a sack of corn? Possibly Harley, with his Secret Agent 007.5 experience, can shed some light on this caper.

~Patches Lady~

Mittens Tells All

2009-05-03T09:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are still all here in the Big Piney Woods, happy and healthy, after a long winter. Momma is working at the shelter A LOT and planting her flower pots. Her tummy is good and she has lots of energies (evidently not for blogging.) She says she needs "time off" to pursue her hobbies and extra curricular activities. Derby suggested a fairy watching party; anycat that wants can come over as they are out of hibernation. Mistrie says they are making beds out of her shed furs. Happy spring to all!!

~Mittens Pollypaws~

Big Piney Woods Update (finally)

2009-03-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

Momma has been so bad about letting us blog, she uses the excuse "busy."

The following things have happened:

Momma's stomach is real good and she is eating like a normal person now, not eating soup all the time. She has cat-a-rack surgery coming up next month.

Momma is at the shelter a lot!! They had their big grand opening and last night an auction. She bought stuff, but she says it is going to stay at the shelter. It is all kitty stuff, things to decorate the walls in the kitty foyer. She also ordered a huge cat tree for the kitten room and purchased a tile to go on the outside of the building. It says "A purr is music played to the heart" with her name on it. She said she is going back to three days a week now.

The snow continues. It is looking like a Christmas card AGAIN!!!

We are all fine. Below is a picture she took of a big boy cat called Davey Jones (blind in one eye) giving a bath to the newcomer Bush. DJ had to hold him in place, he is a rambunctious one year old.

Momma Is Sad

2009-02-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Momma had a favorite kitty in the shelter. His name was India, a sleek black beauty with golden eyes. He was still a kitten, but in the three months she has been there, hadn't put on any weight and never played. She told the techs there was something wrong, and for a while they said, he was just "laid back." Momma knew better and would hold him, but he seemed so frail and wanted to cuddle the other kitties.

Yesterday, when Momma went to the shelter, everyone was sad, and they said little India had to go to Rainbow Bridge because he got terrible sick, he couldn't even stand up. He was suffering. Momma knows it is for the best, but she misses her black beauty.

~Patches Lady~

What Is Goin On???

2009-02-20T06:43:00.000-08:00

Momma puts on a strange outfit, with kitties all over the front on it, she calls it a "scrub" and says it is to protect us. When she comes home, she doesn't even say "hi" but rushes upstairs to change. I can still smell something, though. It smells like other cats! Is she two-timng us?

~Patches Lady~

Health Update

2009-02-18T15:51:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone:

Well, I found out why I have been so sick. It is a bacteria in my stomach called "bacterium Helicobacter pylori," the same bacteria responsible for ulcers (which I probably would have gotten.) It seems this bacteria is in many of us, lying dormant since childhood. It was verified with the biopsy they took during the endoscopy. I am on very heavy doses of antibiotics (two kinds) because it is very resistant. I have 10 days worth of pills, then a month to see how I feel, and an appointment with my Dr. at the end of March, when I, hopefully, get a clean bill of health.

I can actually say "I am glad" that is what it was, easily treatable and now I KNOW. Now, I feel I can get on with my life, (I will probably have ups and downs) and feel great today, although I know it is too early for the meds to be working.

Getting back to a regular routine at the shelter is so important. I have learned many sad facts about humans, mainly that they aren't very humane! If the way we treat animals reflects on what a society we are, it is very disturbing. So many animals are "owner release" or just dumped in the hallway or outside (we have a waiting list because we are a "no kill" facility.) I am not going into details, it is just too upsetting and heartbreaking, however on the flip side, I do meet many wonderful animal lovers.

Thanks to all of you for being so supportive in this long ordeal of mine. You are all wonderful friends and the CB means so much to me. Hugs to all.........

CalioMom Toni :)

Pee Ess: The girls are all fine, and Mistrie came through the winter fat and sassy and waits every night before supper to come inside and rub noses with Patches, then runs out to "her domain."

Health And Shelter Update

2009-02-10T06:43:00.000-08:00

Health Update from CalicoMom Toni:

Hi and thanks to all for your concern. Here is what has happened so far:

My GP sent me to a Gastroenterologist in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, (60 miles from home) last week, who did an endoscopy yesterday. He said my stomach was red and irritated and took a culture, checking for the presence of Helico Bacter (the bacteria responsible for ulcers.) Tomorrow I go to our hospital for an ultrasound of my stomach. He also did blood work, involving my liver and pancreas. As soon as I hear something, I will let you know.

I have been doing volunteer work at our shelter, and try, if I feel up to it, to go in three days a week. I do everything for Cat Petfinders now, taking pictures and posting them on Petfinder's website. I have about 100 cats I have done, so far; many have been adopted. There are about 60 viewable ones, right now. I also love to spend time socializing the cats, and whatever clean-up is necessary. You can see Panhandle Animal Shelter's Cat Petfinder site HERE. The first entry I call "The Kittens" and it is a work in progress, as it changes almost daily.The work is so rewarding and I really love it.

LOA

2009-01-12T06:57:00.000-08:00

CalicoMom here: Due to ongoing health issues, I need to take some time off. As most of you know, I have have bad stomach issues for over a year now. I have a Drs' appointment, for a full physical, on the 26th, but find everyday tasks right now, almost impossible. I will be back!!!

Snow Sale And Baby

2009-01-09T06:16:00.000-08:00

Dear cats who ordered snow:

All snow orders have been shipped. It is a good thing, too, because the rains came and turned the snow into slush. I doubt that would sell. Momma calls it slop.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the grandbaby front: Tessa Dawn entered the world at noon on Momma's birthday. She has a head of black hair and blue eyes, and her Grandma (our humansisfurwhodoesn'tlivehereanymore) says she is gorgeous. I think all Grandma's say that. I have never heard one say, bald, pie eyed, ugly brat. I do know one thing, all kittens are adorable and cute, so maybe human babies are too.

~Patches Lady~