Terms of Endearment

Although their given names are Simba and Kink, I have an assortment of names that I call the lions from time to time. Here are just a few:

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.

Pay Pal Lion

While I was paying bills today, Simba decided to pitch in and help. Unfortunately he does not have a checking account that I can tap. But his moral support is certainly appreciated. I hope he doesn't expect an allowance.

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.

Lion Lessons for Living

The lions are enjoying the warm days and cool nights as we transition to fall. Their days are filled with hunting, hikes, hugs and just hangin' out. Some eating and sleeping too. Simba and Kink have taught me to enjoy the moment and not to sweat the small stuff. That's how they live every day. How wise they are.

Mutt Mania

I have not seen Simba run faster. He was outdoors scoping out his next mouse victim when, apparently, he encountered a neighbor dog. Now mind you...this dog is about the same size as Simba...maybe a bit smaller. Anyway, when Simba was eye to eye with this beagle-like hound, he yelped and ran for home. Simba tore through the house like a shot and hid on the deck until the offending trespasser was gone. From what I could see, the dog just wanted to introduce himself. After witnessing Simba's panic attack and retreat to safety, the meek and mild mutt had a puzzled look on his face. Then he continued on his journey through the neighborhood. Now I won't worry too much about the lions taking on animals bigger than rodents.

Goodwill Hunting

Just when I thought the hunting season was winding down, Simba and Kink decided to hold a competition. On Friday we had a total of SEVEN mice, both dead and alive, brought in by the two lions. At the end of the day it was Simba 4, Kink 3. I have no idea what got into them. Maybe it was that new catnip-stuffed lion toy.

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......

Lion Toys

As you may recall we went shopping for lion toys the other day and found the purr-fect item. Complete with catnip, this jungle cat pleases both Simba and Kink. It should keep them busy on those wet and dreary days when outdoor excursions are limited.

As Summmer Slips Away.....

Fall is in the air. Sunrise is later and the lions are sleeping a bit longer. The rain has put a damper on hunting time too. I must come up with some indoor activities that will keep the boys exercised and active as the days grow shorter. Maybe we'll take a look at the kitty toys while we grocery shop tonight. I'll let you know what we find.