Saturday, October 4, 2008
What Happened to The Lions!?!
Excited to get the lions back soon. I don't know how excited they will be to live here where there are no mice to catch but I hope they can learn to love it again. Enjoy the pics!
Friday, October 3, 2008
October Arrives
We certainly hope that we can meet you, Kate and Kevin, when you return. It has been a pleasure to have the lions because they are so sweet, loving and mellow. We are sure it is a reflection of their owners. They kind of take after Jason too. Except they don't have that wild streak. Hah! We were first introduced to Simba and Kink in May and we can't believe how quickly the time has passed. We'll let you know when the boys transfer to Jason's again.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Lions Leaving Soon
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Lion Load
Kink has a cute little voice and talks when he comes in from outdoors or if he is hungry. He is the first one to jump in bed at night and is eager for a back or belly rub. In the morning he watches me put on my makeup and shares the sink when he is done getting a drink of water. I hope he has enjoyed "summer camp" with us just as much as we have enjoyed him and Simba.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Channel Surfin'
Where's the beer and chips?
Friday, September 19, 2008
Summer Sayonara
Monday, September 15, 2008
He's My Brother Lion
There is no doubt that Simba and Kink are brothers and very bonded to one another. Surprisingly, there is no jealousy. When I pet or scratch one of the boys, the other stands aside until his turn comes up. Usually there is no sneaking food from the other brother's dish, but it depends on how hungry they are. Sometimes one of them will hide behind a chair in playful anticipation and pounce at the other guy as he strolls by. Kink initiates grooming sessions by giving Simba a head and face wash. I believe they watch out for each other too. Once in a while I have to break up a fight, but boys (lions) will be boys (lions).
Friday, September 12, 2008
Terms of Endearment
Sweets. Sweetums. Stink. Lover Boy. Handsome. Kinkus. Lover. Sweet Boy.
I have found that they respond to any name I call them as long as it is accompanied by a hug or a meal. I let Kink drink from the faucet and Simba is allowed to sit on the island countertop. Rick says that I pamper them and he is right. They have been great houseguests and deserve a bit of extra special treatment.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Pay Pal Lion
Earlier in the day, Simba set the neighbor dog straight. When that weiner dog trespassed into our yard and barked at us, Simba did not budge until the little rascal headed for home. Kink, on the other hand, retreated for cover in the house.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Lion Lessons for Living
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Mutt Mania
Monday, September 1, 2008
Goodwill Hunting
Rick suggested that the boys might be catching the same mice they previously brought home since I always catch and release the live ones. In order to test this theory, we talked about putting fingernail polish on the meeses' tails before depositing them back outside and then we would know if we had a return visitor. We can't decide on color....either "Cocktail Waitress Red" or "Pinkini". Speak of the devil....Simba just strolled in with another mouse in his jaws. This one ran under the refrigerator for refuge. I think we'll go with the pink......
Friday, August 29, 2008
Lion Toys
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
As Summmer Slips Away.....
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Simple Pleasures
We had another visit by a live critter this morning. Simba brought in a mouse and dropped him in the kitchen. He ran for cover and Kink helped to chase him out into the open while I trapped him in a cottage cheese container. The mouse was released outside for a potential future encounter with Simba, the hunting machine.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Lion Olympics
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Routine Returns
Both lions have a morning jaunt after their breakfasts. I think they have caught at least one varmint each day. The rain does not bother the boys so I always have a towel on hand to wipe them down. Lately I have been helping them pick burrs out of their fur too. Must be from walks in the weeds while hunting for critters. Overall they are content and healthy.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Refrigerator Retreat
Friday, August 15, 2008
Lion Around
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Bathroom Break
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
The Boys are Back....
We welcomed Simba and Kink back to our Ferndale home last night. They seemed to remember everything as if they were just gone for a short time. It didn't take long for Kink to jump into bed with us while Simba surveyed the house for any changes or new smells. Early this morning they went outside to reclaim some of their favorite stakeouts.
I felt a bit sad taking the boys away from Jason last night. They were very content with him. I think Jason will put a "Reserved for Kink" sign on his suede couch as this was where Kink enjoyed being in the center of the social activity. I can imagine Kink watching from his suede seat while Jason and friends yelled at the TV during a sporting event or as they jumped and laughed during a game on the Wii. While Kink was on the couch, Simba was the "coffee-clatch cat" in the Greenwood neighborhood. Simba had no problem inviting himself in to neighbors' homes if they happened to leave a door ajar. Just goes to show you how much these guys like people. And we are happy to have them back for a few more weeks.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Preparing for Lions' Return
We travel down to Seattle tonight to load up the boys and bring them back up north. I'll post tomorrow to let you know how the boys react to yet another transition. We are looking forward to their return.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Lion Love
Has anyone seen this video? Its funny. I imagine this is what The Lions will do when KnK come back from Alaska.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Lions vs. Raccoons II
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Lion vs. Raccoon
This morning I was getting ready for work when Josh, my roommate, excitedly inquired, "Hey Jason, buddy, pal, good morning! May I feed The Lions? Aside from sneezing, it is one of my most favorite activities in all the land."
"Good morning fellow roommate, sir. Yes, you may feed The Lions, but be sure to watch your hand this time. You know how 'bitey' they can be in the morning," I said.
Josh skipped with excitement toward the garage to enter The Lions Den.
I went back to tying my shoes when the back door abruptly opened, causing a breeze to float through the blonde curls on my head.
"Dude, where is the cat food," Josh enquired.
"Uhh, in its usual place, dude. The drawer in the garage next to the kitty bowls," I said.
"I looked there, its gone," Josh said.
Disgruntled, I walked to the garage and looked into the drawer, confirming Josh's discovery.
We walked back toward the house in the back yard, brainstorming on where the bag had walked off to. Were The Lions that hungry? Were we not feeding them enough? Right at that moment, I spotted the dry kitty food bag on the grass in the backyard, with several ripped holes. Not a single morsel of kitty food left.
Rewind to last Saturday, Josh and I were in the living room when we spotted a large raccoon about twice the size of The Lions walk up to my front door, stop, then walk back across the street and into the neighbor's yard.
"Maybe it's spraying to mark it's territory," I said.
"I like raccoons. I think they are cute and cuddly. I want one someday," Josh said.
Turns out the real reason was the raccoon sniffed out a big meal.
Luckily, I had some left over canned kitty food to feed them this morning so they won't ram their heads on our legs when we get home.
The raccoon has struck first, but believe me, The Lions and I will have our revenge. Beware, come to my house, you're stepping on a war zone...and I hope you like Raccoon Soup.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Lions Roar
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Lions Return
Friday, July 11, 2008
Angie's First Post
I by the way I haven't even heard of what you are doing for jessamy's bday but it better be the best day ever.
Anyways there was no mention of Kinks human size poop that he took in your blog...if he does another one I will take a pic for you. Kinks has found another hiding spot behind the baby's bed. Both the cats try to keep there distance from Kahlel...I think he is a little loud for them. But they are all about Karin though he is not quite as fond of them; I think he does have a soft spot for Simba though. I think Kinks might be depressed because he doesn't seem to eat as much as Simba. I have been doing to cups a day as you suggested not the one cup so maybe that has something to do with it. Anyways don't mean to interrupt your party planning for jess.... talk to you later.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Lion Landing
Deb is in the land of strange accents (Michigan) for five weeks, meaning you will have to suffer through Jason's portrayal of The Chubby Lion Chronicles.
Jessamy and I delivered The Lions to Angie's beautiful 1930's home in West Seattle. They recently moved in and are still unpacking, making empty boxes great hiding spots for The Lions.
Similar to my first-time Lion Handler anxiety, Angie had a Lost Lion scare on day three. She couldn't find Kink and called Jessamy in a frantic panic (I might be exaggerating for the sake of a good story):
"EEK! I cannot find Kink! Oh dear, I have not seen him for three hours! Jessamy, you are wise beyond your years. Please help!"
Angie sidetracked, "speaking of years, you have a birthday coming soon. I've heard Jason will be doing something very nice for you. He is such a great guy for you, very caring and understanding. And Cute!"
After a brief silent moment that was slightly awkward, Angie got back on topic. "Oh, back to Kink. Please give me guidance so I may reunite with Kink. I miss him dearly!"
Jessamy, an experienced Lion Handler, giggled and calmly explained, "Oh, my poor, sweet cousin, Angie. What ever am I to do with you? Kink loves to hide in inexplicable locations such as Jason's sock drawer (photo in May's post). Dearest cousin, check all the nooks and crannies of your new home and I'm sure you will find Kink in the quickest of time!"
Angie became overwhelmed with hope and inspiration from the advice of her highly intelligent cousin. She immediately hung up the phone and began The Search for The Lion. Within minutes, Jessamy received a call from Angie.
"Oh my dearest cousin! I have found Kink hiding in a moving box! Angie's voice beamed with joy. "You are quite the gem of a cousin, indeed!"
Ok, I'll end the sappy story. I think I could have gone on forever and bored everyone. Anyway, Angie is a VIP and not able to make regular posts/photos to the same frequency as Deb. Instead, Angie will send me emails while she is at work saving lives on boats (Coast Guard) and I'll post them for her. Enjoy!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Moving Day
Yesterday the boys headed south to their new temporary home in West Seattle. Here Rick carries 45 pounds of lion weight to the car. The boys were not too happy about the car ride but they did great. Now they are staying with Angie, Kahlel and Karin. Kahlel is almost 3 years old and loves kitties. So the boys will be entertained. Plus they will have three floors of stairs to run up and down. They saw Jessamy and Jason during the transfer which was comforting to them.
I woke up this morning without two hungry lions to feed. Simba and Kink were a joy to have in the house and it is satisfying to know we kept them nourished, safe and cuddled for KnK. Until we meet again......
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Changes
The boys' suitcases are packed and ready to go. They will be moving to a new temporary home tomorrow. Jessamy is going to take them to her cousin Angie where they'll stay for about a week until they can return to Jason's. I know Jason will continue the blog. I think the plan is for Simba and Kink to return here after my visit with relatives. These boys have very special personalities and were a joy to cat-sit. We look forward to seeing them again.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Daily Routine
Kink stays very close to the house and doesn't wander far. He prefers a plush couch or chair indoors. Simba must have some hound in his genes. Many times he returns home with grass, dirt and maybe some flower pedals in his fur. He has acquired a bit of a smudge on his nose that I've attempted to wipe off without success so far. I'm hoping Kink can remove it when he gives Simba a face wash.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Lions' Itinerary
Yesterday was the warmest day so far this year. We had 85 degrees and sun. Needless to say, the lions sought out shady spots to keep cool. For some reason, Simba decided to climb up on the roof of our black car. Here he is stretching and yawning...a photo opportunity I couldn't resist.
We are planning for the boys' transition to a new temporary home while I am away visiting relatives. It looks like we'll take them to Seattle on July 4th where they'll stay with Jason or Jessamy's cousin Angie for a while. They are very flexible and mellow. So I'm sure they'll adapt fine once again. Then I will be a "Chubby Lions" blog viewer instead of a blog writer. NEWS FLASH...Simba just dropped a live mouse at my feet...I have to run!!!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Summer Camp
I think the boys are enjoying "summer camp" with us. Don't worry, Kate. I know these boys will be thrilled to see you and Kevin upon your return. I used to leave our family cat for several weeks each summer. And she was always excited to see me when I came home. She passed away earlier this year just before her 19th birthday. We were blessed to have her for so long.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Super Models
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Health Report
They are being fed Iams dry food along with some Wysong thrown in for shiny coats. As an added treat, I give them a small portion of canned cat food in the evening. I got the idea one night when I opened a can of chili and they almost tripped over themselves trying to get to the kitchen counter. They must have recognized the sound of the top being opened and associated it with cat food.
The boys have three litter boxes setup for their convenience and they always use them...never any accidents. Simba and Kink talk to me throughout the day. They were quiet for the first two weeks of their stay here. But now they do not hesitate to let me know when they want a scratch behind the ears or food in their dishes. They are great house guests. Too bad I can't teach them how to vacuum and clean bathrooms.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Creature Comforts
Monday, June 23, 2008
Cat Heaven
The weather is supposed to be lovely this week so the boys will have plenty of time to savor the warm air and scope out new prey. We have always believed our home with acreage on a quiet cul-de-sac is cat heaven. I think Simba and Kink agree.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The Mole - Deja Vu
I have been leaving a door open just wide enough for the boys to come in and out of the house at their convenience during daylight hours. However, I may be rethinking that. I certainly don't want any other unscrupulous critters appearing at my feet while I am trying to enjoy my morning cup of coffee. Kink has proven that his hunting abilities are equal to Simba's. Now I just have to figure out how to tell Kink he doesn't need to convince me of that any more.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
The Mole
Apparently Kink is tired of Simba getting all the glory for his hunting prowess. So this morning he set out on his walk outdoors and brought back a baby mole....alive! That might not seem like a big deal except that he carried the wiggling mole between his teeth and brought him to me in the house! I was drinking coffee and working on the computer when Kink proudly dropped the frightened mole in front of me. At first I thought he was a mouse, but upon closer examination, I saw his distinctive long snout.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Summer Plans
I have made plans to visit family in July. And Rick will follow later so we are making arrangements to transfer the lions back to Jason sometime in the coming weeks. When we return, we expect that the boys will head north back to Ferndale. It is good that they are easy-going and flexible. As I have said before, we enjoy having them. And I know I will miss their sweet personalities while I am away.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Rubberband Man
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Bachelor Party
The weather is getting nicer as you can see in the picture. The boys are finally getting some sun. Simba is intrigued by the resident squirrel population. He hasn't made a move on them though. I think he knows how fierce they would be in an encounter. Simba and Kink both stick close to the house and don't wander too far. Their outings are mostly in the morning followed by long afternoon naps indoors on the cushy sofa and chair. What a life!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Family Ties
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Cowardly Lion
Today Kink is not too keen about going outside again while Simba is stalking the neighborhood black squirrel. He even brought home a baby mole from our adjacent grassy field. Kink, on the other hand, growls at the garbage truck when it comes down the lane and then runs to hide. I guess he is the "cowardly lion" but very sweet and loveable. We wouldn't change him.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Lions Venture Outdoors
Today was a milestone day for the boys. After three weeks of being housecats, we gave them the opportunity to go outdoors. When Simba stepped out onto the driveway for the first time, he started to chatter. We could tell he was in his element. It took less than an hour for him to bag his first mouse (see black blob at the bottom of last picture). When Kink saw the trophy mouse, Simba tossed it in the air to show Kink that his hunting skills were still intact.
In preparation for the big day, I applied some flea/tick protection to the back of their necks last night. Needless to say, they were not happy. They gave me the cold shoulder for a while but forgave me eventually.
The first photo of Simba is courtesy of Rick. My husband is the photographic genius in the family as is obvious by this picture. He couldn't resist joining in the fun this morning as Simba and Kink explored the property.
Kink was happy to sniff around a bit but quickly retreated to the house for a quick nap. It was an enjoyable morning watching the boys thoroughly relish their outdoors excursion.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z-Z
These lions have certainly mastered the art of power napping. Simba likes to stretch out. He may be dreaming about having his belly rubbed. Sometimes Simba opens one eye to make sure he isn't missing anything. Then he returns to his slumber.
Kink loves to soak in the sun while he snoozes. And his naps tend to be longer than his brother's. We're thinking about getting Kink some Breathe Right nasal strips because his snoring is so loud that it rivals the noise from the neighbors' chainsaw as they are trimming their trees.
Friday, June 6, 2008
The Lion(s) in Winter
The boys have the run of the house most of the time. Although we have KnK's blessing to let them outside, I think I would worry if they decided to stay outside for a night. If a particularly nice day comes along, I may take them out with me while I do lawn work.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Kings of the Jungle (House)
I think we may have secured the deck so the boys can't jump up to the railing. Rick installed some flexible netting on the railing which should deter them. We'll keep you posted.