A bright and sparkly firecracker hello to you, my dear friend and sponsor!

I hope you, my beloved extended family member, are well, and that your summer is off to a fabulous start.

This past month, overall, I was in happy spirits and health.  At least for the most part.  I did have one very long, almost unbearable week, but fortunately, that came to an end, and life in the lobby is happy again.

You see, one of my favorite staff members, the fabulous Carolyn (Founder and President of Olive’s MegaFan Club), dared to take an entire week’s vacation from the sanctuary.

Can you believe I did not see or hear from her for a whole week?  She did not even FaceTime me once!!!!  So unacceptable!  I will say, the rest of the staff gave me lots of extra love in her absence, and I did let them scritch my head and tell me how beautiful I am.  I was relieved when Carolyn returned, and she has since promised me that if I am nicer when she expresses my bladder, she might not need such a long vacation away.  I think that warrants plenty of thought and future discussion.

I am wondering:  are you aware that there are rules that are to be followed here at Tabby’s Place?  I must say, these rules are a definite must, and without them, I fear there would be nothing short of a frantic frenzy of feline chaos!  One of the top ten rules for the Lobby (as proclaimed by me, The Queen) is that I must receive adequate attention from all visitors entering and exiting Tabby’s Place.

This is a serious rule that must be adhered to, so much that I required them to make a special sign just for me to sit next to in the lobby.  As you will see, it clearly shows that “Attention” is demanded, with a warning of what may happen if ignored.  Not that I would ever even consider causing an accident. Nope, not me!!!  Just follow the rule, provide me with attention, and I promise no one will ever be hurt!

Everyone knows I take my role as Queen of the Lobby very seriously.  Part of my responsibilities include being the Official SpokesCat and Greeter of the Tabby’s Place Lobby.   Even before the door is unlocked, I am on point and ready to fulfill my royal duties.

I assure you, I represent Tabby’s Place and the Lobby to the utmost of my ability, generously giving extra smiles for all head scratches.  When a line forms at the door, delaying entrance of visitors, it is occasionally necessary for me to nudge and nip someone along, sending them on their way to allow for the next visitor to bless me with attention!

The staff here at Tabby’s Place respects my dedication as the Lobby Queen and Greeter, so not to worry, I do receive regular days off (whether I want them or not).  Independence Day was one of these days off, and for quite a while, I was looking forward to it!  Sadly, a wet blanket fell on the excitement and our secret plans.

The order we placed online at 2 a.m. for sparklers and firecrackers was cancelled by Jonathan the very next morning, as he muttered seriously under his breath and shook his head.   No one will admit to tipping him off about the order.  How quickly one or two party poopers can spoil all our fun.  Alas, we had to settle for some long, crinkly toys in place of sizzling sparklers.   It was just not the same!

During my off hours as the Lobby Greeter, I do like to find other ways to be useful. I am proud to say I am the brains of this operation.  This includes overseeing the staff with their daily tasks, directing my lobbymates in their daily routines, and handling supply orders in the wee hours of the morning (apparently just not sparklers and firecrackers).  There is always something that I need to do here!

Occasionally, I find a few moments for myself, and when that happens, I enjoy the challenge of a good puzzle feeder.  The staff likes to think it is for my enjoyment and enrichment.  But I will let you in on a secret – they actually give me the puzzle for THEIR entertainment.  Who can resist watching genius little me solve the puzzle and receive a reward quicker than the shake of a tail!

I want to wish you warm and sunny summer days ahead.  I am so very thankful to have you in my life and to have the honor of calling you family.  I dread to think how dreary my days would be without you.  The love, support, and generosity you bless me with mean so much to me.   Near or far, I feel your love and share mine back to you, each and every day!

Lots of love,
Olive, Queen and Official Greeter of Tabby’s Place
(With help from your correspondent, Elizabeth)