This Week in News....

Sadly, one of my favorite ladies, Cyd Charisse, died this week. Knowing she was in her mid-80s didn't stop me from gasping when I read the news.

I first saw her in Brigadoon, opposite Gene Kelly, when I was 10, convinced that there was nothing more beautiful than the two of them twirling amid the sea of heather in that little Scottish town. I've been hooked ever since. A mesmerizing dancer, she commands your attention with her confidence, grace, and electricity. On and off the screen, she was pure sophistication and elegance.

Be sure to catch TCM's tribute Friday night to see some of her best performances. Her dancing will make you smile. If you're already in a good mood, she'll put you in a better one. Thank you and farewell, Wonderful Cyd! I miss you!

In happier news, The Boston Celtics, stomped all over the Los Angeles Lakers at home to win their 17th championship, their first in 22 years. Congratulations and thanks to Doc Rivers and all of the Celtics for this magical season!

Punchline

(Illustration Friday: June 13, 2008)

I'm not sure if this is quite a punchline. Maybe it's a punchword. In any case, once the idea came up, the kitties picked their parts and refused to do anything else. Can you blame them?

Forgotten

(Illustration Friday: June 6, 2008)

You could say that we have collected a group of forgotten kitties. Aside from Gordon, who was born into privilege, the kitties were on their own when they made their way into our lives. After some networking, The Kitty prompted some University of Akron students to find her a better home. She was agreeable to making the 30-minute car ride to ours. Meanwhile, during a visit to a Cincinnati veterinarian, Julie was immediately charmed by Comet's unprecedented adorableness. Ashes then subtly convinced her that she was his best companion. (After some initial complaints, this proved true.) B.J. grew tired after his few years on the road and asked Julie if he could move in with her to settle down. Likewise, Norman chased her down a bike trail arguing that she had room for one more. (That is still under debate.) After Gordon left home to conquer the world, Simon showed up at our office with a slight limp. (Who knew he'd make it to the NBA Finals a few years later?) I'm not sure why these kitties were abandoned, but I'm glad they found our homes, and I think they are too.

Baby

(Illustration Friday: May 30, 2008)

The Kitty became The Mother Kitty after she had her six babies.

Worry

(Illustration Friday: May 16, 2008)

Comet has always been a worrier--over big noises, little noises, strangers, acquaintances, shadows, annoying housemates.... Julie's the only one with the magic touch, so it's a good thing they live together.