Once upon a time a tiny silver kitten named  Sheba came to live at our house. Sheba lived a terrible life tormented by an older calico, ironically named Angel, who chased little Sheba behind the refrigerator and around the house. Then one day Sheba grew up. Much to the surprise of everyone, especially the veterinarian, and to the chagrin of Angel, little silver Sheba grew into an eighteen pound solid black tom cat re-named Rocky, while his nemesis has remained a petite eight pounds after she eats a full meal.

Rocky LOVED it. (isn't he just a little darling)

Angel, on the other hand, was a little put off by the turn of events. (see the devil glow in her eyes)

The newspaper photo below was taken in 2002. Since then Rocky and I both have a tad more arthritis and put on a bit of weight. He has asked that I lower the bars and let him take the hurdles at a more leisurely rate. But still, every evening after supper, if I get distracted he comes to find me and insists (loudly) on putting on his costume (his red bandana) and performing his grand show. Click the photo on the right for an evening performance!

Finally, after over ten years of performing, the vet has declared Rocky's performing days over - but he still enjoys his treats with Angel - in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Click on photo below for complete Tampa Tribune article

Our Backyard

Dragonflies, foxes, bluebirds, orchids and a continuing rainbow of flora and fauna grace our yard and our lives. Afternoon writing often gives way to coffee out back and a period of serious meditation and thought - what the dear wife calls daydreaming.

And yes, the wild fox came wandering through our Pasco County, Florida neighborhood as the Wife basted chicken on the grill. The fox stopped and licked her chops, waiting for a handout. Sorry, but we only stray from our "don't feed the wildlife" rule to share water during the drought periods and cantaloupe seeds with our many squirrels.

I must admin the giraffe isn't native to our immediate yard, but lives not far down the street, close to the bird and the tiger.

Meet one of our South Carolina Friends (the squirrel - not the tiger)

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