Jill Gubin Illustration, L.L.C.

Vampire-Like Animals do Exist!

2011-10-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

It’s getting close to that spooky time of the year and Maggie and I thought we would share some real life vampire-like animals with you. Top on our list are the bats that drink blood, the hairy-legged vampire bat, the white-winged vampire bat and the vampire bat. Pictured here is the vampire bat. The hairy-legged vampire and the white-winged vampire only prey on birds while the vampire bat seeks out cattle, horses, livestock and humans. Its bite isn’t dangerous however it can spread rabies. Four children in Peru died this year after vampire bats initiated a rabies outbreak among the local Awajun tribe.
Mags wanted to show you this video on how the vampire bats can sneak up on you, so watch out piggy!
Video -Vampire Bats

“I really hate ticks!” ~ Mags, they stick to you and seem to suck the blood right out. They are capable of drinking blood that is 600 times their weight! Thank goodness Sam & I don’t see them out here much because they prefer wooded areas near water. One bite from a tick won’t turn you into a vampire but they can spread illnesses like Lyme disease. If you have a tick remove it quickly, grab with tweezers and make sure you have its head, keep it for a few days just in case you get sick.

“Look at these crazy long fish that are extremely scary.” ~ Sammy, the Lampreys are ancient fish that look like something from outer-space. Adult lampreys latch onto their prey with their hook-shaped teeth and gulp down the victim’s blood. They live in fresh and salty water worldwide, but only attack humans if they are starved. Check out this crazy up-close video on this fish and be careful when you scuba dive.
Video-Lampreys

Who’s Your Boss Baby?

2011-10-16T16:12:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow October 17th is “National Boss’s Day”

Maggie and I know who are bosses are and have our dead mice ready as presents. Our humans love dead mice or scorpions as gifts!

“National Boss’s Day” was enacted by Patricia Bays Haroski in 1958. Patricia was a secretary for State Farm and forgot the birthday of her boss!!! A big no, no with humans! She declared October 8th as boss’s day not realizing that her boss’s actual birthday was October 16th. In 1962 the Governor of Illinois Otto Kerner believed that boss’s day was a fantastic idea and backed Patricia’s original registration by officially proclaiming the day.

This nice holiday has been criticized in the U.S. and mocked as a Hallmark Holiday. However Hallmark did not offer a Bosses’ Day card for sale until 1979!

Other countries such as Australia, South Africa, United Kingdom, Ireland and India observe “National Bosses’ Day”. In fact, in India the bosses give their employees gifts on this holiday!

So Maggie and I ask, who’s your boss? You don't have to give them dead mice, but make sure you are extra especially good to them on Bosses’ Day!
Remember to Hug your animals!
Mags & Sammy

Wash Me Please

2011-10-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I have heard from our dog and cat friends, many scary stories of being dunked in water and scrubbed down. We also know from experience on how you humans like to wash us. So Maggie & I are here to give you tips on this, because we know that you are going to wash us anyway!

Tip ONE: For your safety please trim our nails. Try to be fast about it and don’t cut into our quick (the part containing nerves and blood vessels) this hurts!

Tip TWO: Choose a time when we have less energy, maybe play with us before bathing to tire us out!

Tip THREE: Brush us before hand so less hair ends up in the drain!

Tip FOUR: Make sure that there are rubber mats down for both you and us. We don’t want anyone slipping, you humans are heavy and you can crush us!

Tip FIVE: Above all please make sure the water is lukewarm and comfortable. Please not too hot or cold that is not acceptable.

Tip SIX: Rinse carefully, do not dump the water on our heads, it could get into our eyes and ears. With a cup or hand sprayer make sure all the access suds are off. Take a washcloth gently to our face.

TIP SEVEN: Please wrap us in a big soft towel when done. The blow-dryer terrifies Maggie and I think the gentle rubbing with the towel is a nice touch. Afterwards you can wrap me up like I am in a cocoon that is so cozy.

We agree that the reasons dogs and cats should be bathed once a week or once every 2 weeks are; we can get dirty playing outside, our skin itches and gets irritated, we could have fleas or ticks, this helps keep allergens down for humans and we just feel better when we are clean.

Please Remember to Hug your Animals!
Maggie & Sam

Wednesday September 28th Rosh Hashanah begins at Sundown!

2011-09-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

Sammy and I know that Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, but we didn’t know a lot about it. So when Paul & Jill went to work, we surfed on their computers! According to tradition, God judges all animals between the 10 days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The 10 days of judgment are called Awe. It is the belief that God writes the names of the good in the “book of life” and sentences the evil to death on Rosh Hashanah. The people that are caught in between good and evil have until Yom Kippur to perform “teshuvah” or repentance. Yom Kippur is also known as the Day of Atonement.

Observant Jews believe that Rosh Hashanah and the days around it are a time for prayer, reflection on mistakes made in the past, doing good, while forgiving others and themselves. During the celebration of Rosh Hashanah work is prohibited. Sammy and I think this is awesome. Everyone should take a day or two off once a year from work to reflect on their life. So we are going to stop working right now and do some reflecting.

Have a Happy Rosh Hashanah everyone, and remember to Hug your Animals.

Maggie & Sam

Tennis Balls as Mice Homes Really?

2011-09-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I were watching the U.S. Tennis Open, we love the brightly colored green tennis balls. We didn’t realize they had so many uses! We knew the tennis balls from the U.S. Tournament are donated to community and youth projects.
We didn’t know that the Wimbledon tennis balls are donated to help protect Britain’s smallest mammal the endangered harvest mice. This mouse weighs in at only 6 grams and has a tail that is able to grasp and handle objects with ease. This little guy is endangered because its habitat is being taken away by urban development and farming. Now instead of having homes out of shredded grass halfway up a reed, they have a home in tennis balls on a metal pole! Here they are safe from birds of prey and weasels. Maggie and I feel that the humans are really trying to save this species and we are happy about that.
The other portion of the tennis balls from Wimbledon are donated to schools in Japan, where they are used for sports and art projects. They are also used to quiet tables and chair legs in schools for the deaf!
So Maggie and I have learned that tennis balls are not just pretty on the outside they have a lot to offer everyone.
Don’t forget to Hug your animals!
Maggie & Sammy

Rescue Dog Teams are Remembered on 9/11

2011-09-11T16:04:00.000-07:00

Sam and I were watching and learning a lot about September 11th, this week. One of the interesting things we learned is that there will be a ceremony to honor the dogs and their handlers who came to the World Trade Center to lead the search and recovery missions. This link shows pictures of some of those teams. Many of the dogs which worked in the aftermath of the attack are old and retired now. They will be honored today with their humans at Liberty State Park a fitting tribute for their incredible service.

Sam and I were stunned to learn that one trained search and rescue dog is as effective as ten trained humans in locating a missing person! Dogs have a keen sense of smell and can pick up on an individual’s scent from a distance. This work is extremely stressful and some dogs need to have live finds after finding bodies at a recovery site. Many handlers will have people hide in another area in order to renew the search spirit in their canine partner.

Sharon L. Peters from the U.S.A. wrote this very touching story on the “Rescue-dog teams are unsung heroes of 9/11”.
Don’t forget to Hug your Animals
Maggie and Sam

Labor Day History is Important to Remember

2011-09-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I found through various reliable resources on the Internet that the first big Labor Day was observed in the United State on September 5, 1882 by the Central Labor Union of New York. President Grover Cleveland declared it a federal holiday in 1894 following the deaths of some workers who were killed by the U.S. military protesting their working conditions. Children, women and men worked long hours and their working conditions were less than satisfactory. In many cases there were tragic deaths and injuries. Labor Unions formed two main types of groups to protect the workers. Craft unions (skilled laborers) and industrial unions (laborers in the same industry regardless of their skill) were the groups. They both fought to shorten the hours, have better working conditions and fairer wages for the workers.

Even with the progress the workers made on changing thier environment, it took the Great Depression to end child labor across the nation. Adults were so desperate for jobs that they would work for the same wages as children. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938 which placed limitations on child labor.

This special day is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of the American workers. It is a yearly tribute to the accomplishments workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of this country.

So Maggie and I say, you go take that Cat-Nap you have earned it humans!

We discovered "The blood and sweat behind Labor Day" by Kenneth Davis, we thought you might find it interesting.

Don't forget to Hug your Animals
Maggie & Sam

Friday August 26th is National Dog Day

2011-08-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I want to share some interesting insight on National Dog Day. This fine holiday was founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, a celebrity pet lifestyle expert and huge animal welfare advocate. Colleen also founded National Cat Day in 2005, 1 year after National Dog Day (what is up with that Colleen, why dogs first)? National Cat Day is celebrated on October 29th, (mark your calendar humans)!

National Dog Day is important because it honors dogs for all the work, loyalty and love they give humans on a daily basis. When needed they rescue, help and guard their friends and family. In other words along with us cats they are the perfect companions!

This day also gives humans the opportunity to give back. It reminds them that there are countless dogs that need a home or need to be rescued from abuse.

For more on this much needed holiday please check out this link National Dog Day. For more information on the amazing animal advocate Colleen, check out this link on Colleen Paige

Don't forget to Hug your Animals,

Maggie & Sammy

An Elephant Resort of Sorts!

2011-08-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

In Zambia there is an Mfuwe Lodge that was built on an elephant’s migration trail. Even though the lodge is in the way the elephants remembered that a mango grove is on the other side. They have no problem walking through the lodge to get to the fruit.

There is always a barrier in between the tourists and the elephants. The staff makes sure that humans are at a safe distance. Maggie and I think it is wonderful that the elephants seem at peace with the current surroundings and people. The head elephant leader is named Wonky Tusk! This group of elephants comes every November and they stay four to six weeks to gorge on mango's. Andy Hogg the lodge director says “This is the only place in the world where elephants freely get so close to humans.” Attached is a link that will take you directly to the lodges website, if you are intrigued by this story as we were please check it out! http://bushcampcompany.com/mfuwe_lodge.php

Don’t forget to hug your Animals!

Maggie & Sam

Do you have a third eyelid?

2011-08-13T16:54:00.000-07:00

Sam and I know that we have a third eyelid and that humans don’t! However we did not know that there were quite a few animals that have a third eyelid! Animals such as the polar bear, shark and aardvark are just a few. Sam and I thought that you might understand how the third eyelid is used by our below examples of the bird, llama and camel.

Birds have three eyelids; one upper, one lower and a nictitating membrane between the two eyelids. This membrane is operates like our tear duct does. It cleans and protects the bird’s eye. It is transparent, so that the bird’s vision is not impaired. Some veterinarians think that the third eyelid covers the bird’s eye when they are flying. In other words it’s like they are wearing birdie goggles to prevent dry eyes!

Both the llama and the camel have a third eyelid. The membrane keeps the sand out, yet they are able to see through the lid. Therefore both the Llama and Camel can literally see through a sandstorm!

This informative link from Wikipedia will also show you some interesting insight and pictures of the third eyelid!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nictitating_membrane

Remember to Hug your Animals,

Maggie & Sam

National Friendship Day Sunday August 7th, 2011

2011-08-06T15:47:00.000-07:00

Friendship Day is this Sunday August 7th, 2011. Believe it or not this holiday has been around for a long time. Many countries around the world celebrate Friendship Day, usually on July 30th or the 1st Sunday in August. Friendship Day originated from Joyce Hall, the founder of Hallmark Cards in 1919. The greeting card National Association promoted this holiday in the 1920’s but the consumers did not go for it. They felt that it was a commercial gimmick just to promote the buying of greeting cards. By the 1940’s the holiday pretty much was non existent in the U.S.

However in other countries such as Paraguay and Asia the holiday flourished and was adopted by other countries. Today Friendship Day is celebrated by a number of countries around the world.

Mags and I think this is a fantastic holiday because you should always be thankful you have friends. If you are a member of Maggie and Sam’s Adventures check out their Friendship Cards. If you can’t hug or call someone send a card it’s a great way to stay connected!

Remember to Hug your Animals!

Mags & Sammy

It's all in the way you Shamu!

2011-07-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I love watching the Killer Whale’s jump in and out of the ocean. They are incredibly smart and remind us a lot of our friends the dolphins. They are truly magnificent. Maggie surfing the Internet learned that a water park called Sea World has a famous Killer Whale called Shamu. I like the fact that the name means (She+Namu = Shamu). Apparently there have been a lot of Killer Whales called Shamu.

The original Shamu was captured in 1965 Puget Sound, Washington, and brought to the Sea World in California. She was the 4th Killer Whale to be captured and she was the 1st to survive 13th months of captivity. She did a lot of tricks and water shows up until her death in August 23, 1971 from septicemia, (deadly infection that gets worse fast. It can arise from infections throughout the body). Before her death they retired her from performing after she refused to let go of a Sea World Employee who was riding her during a show. Maggie and I agree that we wouldn’t really want anyone riding on our backs, we empathize with Shamu!

The first Killer Whale to be born in captivity happened at Sea World in 1985, they named her Kalina. Since then there have been more than 20 killer whales born at Sea World parks.

Pictured here is the original Shamu, god bless her!

Hug your animals

Maggie & Sammy

How Fast Can You Run?

2011-07-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the average house cat can run up to thirty miles an hour? That is about as fast as the average bear! No I am not kidding even a rabbit can run faster than Maggie and myself! What a relief that I can still catch an elephant or Three Toe Sloth. At least we are faster than humans. Check out this interesting chart from infoplease.com

Domesticated dogs average 18-30 mphs. There are exceptions such as the Greyhound and Regal Saluki dogs which can reach speeds of 40 -45 mphs! Their relatives the African wild dog can run 50mph.

Our relatives the big cats can really kick butt. The Cheetah which is the fastest land animal has been clocked at speeds over 70 mphs! So impressive. Maggie and I love this following video we found on You Tube on the top fastest animals. Tell us what you think! Check out the red fox, he is just flat out fun to watch.

Hug your Animals!
Maggies and Sammy

Please help us Brush our Teeth!

2011-07-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

To all my fellow dog and cat friends, Maggie and I urge you to brush your teeth. This link teeth cleaning will show your humans how to help clean your teeth. Please print it off and push it in front of them to read. Jill & Paul have been brushing our teeth for a long time and still I have dental problems. We can get gingivitis and periodontal disease just like humans. My gums were sore and bleeding so Paul & Jill took me to the vet. I had to have 2 teeth pulled. Just because we cannot talk does not mean we are not in pain. Brushing helps but I still need to have regular cleanings with the vet, we are very much like humans. Please click on this link to see some of the signs you may have if you have gum disease. The pictures are of me brushing my teeth and my dental cleaning. You can see my gums look so much better after the cleaning. Trust me on this you will feel less tired , not be in any pain and have more energy if your teeth & gums are in good shape!

Don't forget to Hug your animals

Mags and Sammy

We are Proud to Be American Kitties

2011-07-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

It is July 4th, 2011 Sam and I would like share some really fascinating, interesting facts on American History.

Did you know that the first representative assembly in North American was established in Jamestown, Virginia on July 3oth, 1619?

Did you know an amazing girl, Eliz Lucas at the age of 16 cultivated what became South Carolina’s second-largest crop, Indigo?

Did you know that Pennsylvania was created over a debt owed? King Charles the II owed William Penn 16,000 British pounds. Penn was a converted Quaker (a religious group persecuted in England for their beliefs). Instead of the money Penn asked of the land in between Maryland and New York. The king agreed and Pennsylvania was established.

Sam and I found these above fascinating facts from the article Stephanie Pappas, Senior Writer for “Live Science” wrote. Please check out this website to learn many more intriguing facts about our history.

Also Remember today when going to see fireworks or if you yourself are setting off fireworks, that your animals are in a safe place. Loud noises and unexpected explosions can be frightening to animals that don't know whats going on!

Hug your Animals

Mags & Sammy

Can’t you see Our Window Birdie?

2011-06-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Sam and I have been noticing that a few birds (we are not going to name names have been flying into the windows we look out of. We are very concerned and wanted to know why? With the help of our humans we looked up some interesting information and wanted to share it with you!

Birds tend to fly into the glass because they see it as open and clear (not because they are crazy)! They might also be trying to fly from a predator and they see reflections of the trees, and the sky and they still think they are outdoors. Birds think that their own reflection is another bird and they have a territorial reaction. That is why sometimes birds hit their beak hard on the glass.

Let’s work together to keep these birds from hitting the windows. Put a fake statue of an owl near your window, the birds will believe it is a predator. Attach opaque or Mylar tape to the windows. Also decals work well. Sam and I think that if you leave your windows a little dirty (not filthy, but a little dirty) it will eliminate the reflective glare the birds see. Sometimes Sam and I put our noses on the glass to cause a mark!

If you find an injured bird that can’t recover right away, gently put the bird into your mouth and carry it to your nearest human. Be careful when you pick it up not to put a hole in it with your teeth. Your human should place it in a small open box on a towel. Give the bird a couple of hours if it does not seem well call your local wildlife rehabilitation center. For those of you in Arizona click onto one of the following websites for assistance. Adobe Wildlife Center or Arizona Game & Fish Department

Remember we all must work together it is a crazy world out there!
Maggie & Sammy

Your Cat is Fat!

2011-06-19T20:36:00.001-07:00

My humans took me to the vet the other week and he told them I was overweight. He also gave my humans some interesting information on healthy snacks. Mags and I actually like the alternatives and suggest that maybe your cat or dog will like them too!

Say No to feeding us these;

(1) Potato Chip = ½ Hamburger or (1) 2oz chocolate bar
(1) 1oz of Cheddar Cheese = 3 ½ Hamburgers or (4) 2 oz chocolate bars
(1) cup of Milk = 4 ½ Hamburgers or (5) 2 oz chocolate bars

Say Yes to feeding us these;

Believe it or not we will eat fresh carrots, apples and green beans. So try feeding us 1/4th a cup of these vegetables.

Avoid giving us unhealthy snacks and table scraps and try feeding us vegetables. Vegetables and apples make us feel better.

Thank YOU and remember to Hug your animals,

Love Sammy and Mags

What’s up with whiskers?

2011-06-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

A few people have asked Maggie and me what’s up with our whiskers and why do we need them? Okay here are the feline facts.
Our whiskers are large, stiff hair that is twice the thickness of ordinary hairs. They are embedded much deeper into our skin and have many nerve endings. They tell us if we are about to touch something or if there is a change in the air pressure. Whiskers aid with navigation and sensation. The length of our whiskers lets us know if we can fit through an opening. If our whiskers don’t touch the sides of an open space, it tells us we can’t fit! DON’T EVER TRIM OUR WHISKERS. The cat’s body determines the length of the whiskers. If you trim our whiskers we won’t be able to accurately gage openings.
We normally have around a dozen whiskers in four rows on each upper lip and a few on each cheek. There are some over our eyes, on the chin and elbows.
Humans please don’t be worried if we lose our whiskers from time to time, its normal, they grow back.
Don’t forget to hug your animals
Sammy and Mags

The Vet and Sweaty Paws

2011-06-05T16:56:00.000-07:00

Sam and I were kidnapped and taken to the vet this Saturday. It was not a pleasant experience at all. Don’t get me wrong the people working there are so nice but who likes to have a stick (thermometer) stuck, you all know where, not me, not Sam? Sam was told he was fat!!! LOL, I like how our humans said he is a Main Coon and big boned. Right he is 4 lbs overweight! Me, well my weight was perfect a little bit on the slender side but I am a girl.

The main reason I wanted to blog today was to let everyone know that when we cats and dogs get nervous we sweat. Our sweat glands are located in the pads of our paws. So when we are being transported to the vet don’t be surprised if we leave wet paw prints on any surface!

It has also come to the attention of Sam and I that some of our Dog friend’s paws are being burned. Their owners are taking them on walks on asphalt here in Arizona when it is hot. Humans please realize that it is starting to get hot as early as 8am and asphalt and concrete retain heat. Before taking your dog or cat with you on a walk take your shoes off and step barefoot on whatever surface you will be taking your pet on, grass, sidewalk, dirt trail, asphalt. If it is too hot for your foot it is too hot for ours!

Remember to Hug your Animals

Maggie and Sam

"Soaked"

2011-05-23T18:15:00.000-07:00

Okay Maggie and Sam are excited because they have another picture for Illustration Fridays' word of the week. This weeks topic is Soaked. You can also check out what their complete drawing looks like on their website. Take a look at their Birthday Wish Card.

Have a fun week everyone and stay dry.
Mags & Sam

Why We Purr

2011-05-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

Our humans are always asking us why we purr? Sam and I aren't entirely sure. We just know that it feels good or we wouldn't do it! Also this is one way that we try to communicate to you humans and each other.

Perfect Harmony - We form positive vibrations that harmonize together. It is very soothing and a nice way to communicate. For us it usually means we feel good. It could also mean;

I Am A Sweet Maggie or Sam or maybe we just want Reassurance - If I am in a good mood I purr to Sam to let him know all is good and I don't feel threatened. Sometimes when I don't feel well I purr because it comforts me.

Researchers have found that purring might speed up healing especially if a cat's bone is broken. The positive vibrations help to strengthen the muscles and bones.

For Sam and I purring is mystical and we don't know all the reasons why we purr we just like to! Sam and I would like to thank Erica Keener a Maggie and Sam's Adventures Member for sending this fascinating information on purring to us. We like this article please check it out at How and Why Cats Purr.

Safari

2011-05-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Sammy and I suggested that this week's topic for Illustration Friday be Safari. They picked our idea! So here is our drawing of what the word Safari means to us. We believe that life is like a Safari adventure and that your friends and family help you along the way! Check out the other artists interpretation of Safari.

Remember always Hug your Animals

Maggie & Sam

Beginner

2011-05-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I belong to Illustration Friday which is a site for artists. Each week one artist comes up with a topic and everyone submits a drawing on what the word means to them. This week the word is Beginner. We thought it was purr-fect for Mother's Day. Because we are all beginners in life and our mothers show us what everything is all about. So this is a picture of a Mother and her baby. Hope you like it! Click on the above link in pink to see the other artists interpretation of Beginner.

Happy Mother's Day

Maggie & Sam

Under Cover Cats!

2011-05-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

Mags and I saw the funniest thing and we just had to share it with you. But we have a lot of human and animal friends that trust us. Please keep in mind that these pictures on this Under Cover Cats Post are not real. They are truly fictional. This picture shows a cat preparing to storm the beaches of Normandy in World War II. Contrary to popular belief there are some cats that truly do love the water. The Turkish Van Cats love the water and swimming is one of their favorite sports. It also seems to be up to the individual cat on whether they will take to the water or not. One thing is for sure not all cats hate water! The picture of the cats jumping from the airplane without parachutes is funny but also brings up another Myth, that cats always land on their feet. Because cats don't have a collarbone and they have more mobility in their backbone, in a short distance fall they can usually position themselves in an upright position. They can still sustain injuries from short falls. Now listen up humans if us cats fall more than 1 or 2 floors we may sustain severe or fatal injuries. Our legs and feet can no longer absorb the shock from the force of hitting the ground. Cats do not always land on their feet! So please be careful when taking us into high rises or multi-story apartment complexes, we do love windows. The picture of the cat sitting in the situation room with the President and his Top Aids brings up an important issue. Us cats love to be in the center of our humans, we like to know what is going on and yes, it is about us. So please always try to make us apart of your life. These photos are just a few from the following site on SLATE (a place of dubious and far-fetched ideas). Check out the CATS OF WAR a fictitious but funny way to look at things.

Remember to Hug your Animals!

Maggie & Sam,

Play Boy Bunny Pictures XXX

2011-04-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

Sammy and I get the best stuff from our Maggie and Sam’s Adventures Fans. So thank you. Keep sending your funny jokes and pictures you never know when we might be using them. There are so many Holidays and Events to celebrate that we wanted to share with you are Play Boy Bunny Shoot. Check out these bunnies who are working it for the Camera! Also if you are not a member you might what to become one of Maggie & Sam's Adventures. This way you can send all the fun greeting cards on there to freinds and family. The animals that are on the cards are from pictures of real pets we have received from their humans. Sam and I love to draw you! Maggie & Sam's Adventures
Hug your Animals Sammy and Mags

Allergic to Me?

2011-04-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I have known for a long time that one of our humans (I am not going to name names) is allergic to us. We have endured the constant vacuuming, brushing, and an occasional bath just so that our human can breathe. Our human also puts blankets in our sleeping baskets so that it will trap the hair and make it easier to clean.
Now we would never think about getting rid (maybe once or twice) of this human besides the other human would get lonely! So Mags and I jumped on the Internet to help the thousands of people who suffer from cat allergies. The first article is about a new medication that is being developed. New Allergy Medication The second article is how both humans and pets can get through the cold and flu season together through Special Care!

Remember to Hug your Animals!

Maggie and Sammy

Maggie & Sam's Movie Review Lincoln Lawyer

2011-04-10T16:30:00.000-07:00

Paul and Jill treated Sammy and I to a special Movie Night out!. We went to an UltraStar Cinema and wow, it was great. They didn't charge more for the ticket pricing and our humans were given big oversized chairs to sit in! This worked out well because we didn't have to sit on them we could sit beside them! Lots of room. Also theatre people would bring by food and nobody noticed when I grabbed the potato chips off the arm rest! Now for the Movie Lincoln Lawyer starring Matthew McConaughey, and Marisa Tomei who were excellent. It is a murder mystery with a twist. Even Sammy could not guess the ending. It is more than just another lawyer movie. Sam and I give it 4 paws and a tail up! Also just a side note. When McConaughey is in a dilemma sometimes the camera motion goes a little crazy, so be prepared!

I am not your Fool, Fool!

2011-04-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

I asked Sam that question and he just gave me the blank cat stare! So we decided to look it up. Here is what we found out from the Newspaper “The Miami Examiner”. It goes all the way back to 1582 and begins with Pope Gregory XIII when he ordered the Julian calendar to be replaced with the new Gregorian calendar. In the Past the celebration of the New Year lasted eight days. Festivities started on March 25th and ended on April 1st.

Since technology wasn’t around like it is now to get the word out (no texting), the news of the new calendar taking effect didn’t happen fast. A lot of countries didn’t know for years and some refused to follow the Gregorian calendar. So the ones who continued to celebrate New Year’s Day on April 1st were called “fools” and made fun of. This is how Fools Day came to be.

Well that explains it! Hope everyone had a fun April Fool's Day.

Best Wishes,

Maggie and Sammy

We Need Sleep!

2011-03-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

I hear our humans talk about Maggie and myself . They say we sleep a lot. I admit that I do like to nap in the morning, day and night but it's a cat nap! Maggie is out like a light must of the time (she snores), but girl cats need their beauty sleep. Plus Jill has us posting to Face book, drawing/being creative and responding to our Maggie and Sam fans, so we need some down time ! Here is some interesting facts on other animals and how much sleep they get. I found this information on Education World At Home's main page. Scientists are still researching sleep on different species and they don't understand everything, but they have measured how much sleep some different animals get.

Bullfrog = 0 hrs! That's right, no shut eye for the frog! Horse = 2.9 hrs. Cow = 4.0 hrs. Rabbit = 8.7 hrs. Baboon = 9.4 hrs. Dog = 10.7 hours No Comment Pigeon = 11.9 hours. Cat = 13.2 hours. Still less than the Ground squirrel, Brown Bat and Hairy armadillo! Ground squirrel = 14.5 hours. Brown bat = 19.9 hours. Hairy armadillo = 20.4 hours (The above picture is of a Hairy Armadillo)!

Don't forget to Hug your animals!

Sammy and Maggie

Wierd Animal Deaths

2011-03-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's True Mags and I watch the news and Animal Planet with our humans. I don't know if you have noticed lately but a lot of animals in large numbers have been dying around the world. News on Animal Deaths

Just recently 2 million fish washed up dead on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Marylands' State Department said that it was because the water was too cold and the overpopulation of the " juvenile spot fish".

In Sweden 50 Jackdaw birds were found dead in the streets. In Arkansas thousands of blackbirds turned up dead. As in the case of Sweden, Arkansas' s officials said it was because of fireworks! Just a few days later 450 birds in Louisiana dropped dead. The cause from officials was that they hit some power lines.

Mags and I don't think these deaths are a coincidence. These animals are dying in large amounts and it seems to be happening often. We are just asking you humans to keep your eyes open. This isn't just the work of fireworks and power lines. (Although just for now stop firing fireworks into the sky okay), if this is truly killing birds stop it!! Also if the water is too cold why is it too cold?

Anyway eyes open humans look out for us animals

Mags and Sammy

Movie Time! The Adjustment Bureau

2011-03-13T17:44:00.001-07:00

Saw the Adjustment Bureau with Mags and our Humans. It was a good movie and a very unique love story, which is rare in human movies. I thought the story was underdeveloped. but Mags explained to me that it was based on the short story by Philip K. Dick, the "Adjustment Team". Matt Damon and Emily Blunt were amazing in this movie. Whoever thought you would find love in a man's bathroom? Go see the movie it's worth seeing, Mags and I give it 2 1/2 paws. We just wanted to know more about the Adjustment Bureau is that to much to ask?

Hug your animals,

Sammy and Mags

It's Time For the Oscars!

2011-02-27T12:08:00.000-08:00

As everyone knows Mags and I are great movie buffs. So this year we are going to try to pick the movie that is going to win for the Best Motion Picture of the Year. We believe the below movies are the immediate contenders;

1. The King's Speech (Mags & I didn't not get to see it but we believe it will win. We saw the trailers, smashing)
2. Fighter (We loved this one 4 paws and 1 tail up)
3. Inception (Loved this but there was so much going on that it was a little confusing. It gets 3 paws up)
4. The Social Network (Mags and I really liked this true and fascinating story. 4 paws up)
5. The Black Swan (Didn't get to see this but we heard from our neighbor that it was twisted and no cat's meow)!

Personally I agree with Maggie that Secretariat should have been in the running. The horse should have at least received a nomination for it's acting ability!

Hug your animals and hope to see you at the Movies!

Sammy and Maggie

It's all about the Rabbit !

2011-02-20T09:31:00.000-08:00

Mags and I were born in the year of the Snake 2001. This year we have been told that it is the year of the rabbit. This is excellent, I love the bunny! Mags and I see one in the yard almost everyday. Here is the scoop for any humans and animals that were born in the year of the rabbit; They are usually calm, gentle and loving. Rabbit groupies are very ambitious and know how to achieve their goals. Good listeners combined with a sweet nature they tend to make great friends (and are good huggers). For a more information on the year of the Rabbit please check out this link: The year of the Rabbit. Mags and I would like to know is anyone out there born in the year of the bunny? Come on, let us know, comment!

Sammy

Rabbit groupies dress well , and love fashion! Some of the celebrities born in the year of the Rabbit are; Albert Einstein, Leon Trotsky, Frank Sinatra, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and David Beckham.

Mags

Punxsutawney Phil's 2011 Weather Prediction

2011-02-06T21:04:00.000-08:00

This picture is from the National Geographic Daily News.

Humans are so silly they actually have a groundhog named Phil, who predicts the weather! Here is how it works, on February 2ND if he sees his shadow, there will be a long winter (six more weeks). If he doesn't see his shadow, then spring temperatures are just around the corner. Phil "speaks" to his human caretakers, known as the Inner Circle, in Groundgogese and tells them his prediction. (Totally believable because Maggie and I talk to our humans, Paul and Jill all the time!) He did not see his shadow last week so according to Phil it should start to warm up for everyone (Great News for all animals and humans)! I hope the ground hog got it right because it has been cold this past week. Seriously Maggie and I thought our paws were frost bitten!

Don't forget to hug your animals!

Sammy and Mags

Sumatran Tiger Cubs

2011-01-30T09:23:00.000-08:00

Mags and I just learned that our cousin a rare Sumatran tiger in Indonesian just gave birth to some cubs at the Taman Rimba zoo. The Sumatran tiger is the smallest cat of the five remaining tiger subspecies. I would like to point out they are still much larger than Mags and myself! They live in the most tropical jungles on the Sumatra Island of Indonesia. There are only 400-500 left.
The above 2 pictured are 2 female Sumatran tiger cubs from the San Diego Safari Park. Please check out the story about the Sumatran tiger cubs that were just born at the Indonesian zoo. The parents of the cubs, Peter and Uni are very proud!

Sammy and Mags!

The Fighter

2011-01-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

Maggie and I went to the movies again, good times! We went to see The Fighter. It’s a real life story of the boxer Mickey Ward who competed for the boxing title of a welterweight. A welterweight is heavier than a lightweight but lighter than a middleweight. The boxer must weigh between 140lbs -147lbs. That is one fit human! Mark Wahlberg played Micky and I felt he did an outstanding job. He even built a gym in his home to work out for the role!

This movie set in the 80’s, really gave me insight into what human families are all about. I loved it! 4 paws and a tail up!

Sammy

Christian Bale threw me for a loop I didn’t know whether I wanted to meow at him or rub up against him to give him some comfort. He played Mickey’s half brother, Dicky . Dicky wanted so much to help Micky but he had a tough enough time trying to help himself. In fact Mickey’s entire family with their big hair was really entertaining. It’s definitely a must see. 4 paws and a tail up!

Mags

Our Favorite Rodent the Capybara

2011-01-17T16:16:00.000-08:00

While reading one of our Baby Animals Books we discovered a rodent species called the Capybara. Check this rodent out!!! They are related to rats and mice. The Capybara is the largest rodent in the world!! They can grow up to 4 feet and weigh over 100lbs. Their main predators are jaguars and the anacondas. The Capybara love the water and can stay under for up to five minutes. Sam and I would love to ride one!

Mags and Sammy

Best Book Ever!!!

2011-01-10T19:36:00.000-08:00

Our humans read to Maggie and I this week the Warriors into the Wild by Erin Hunter. Great book. It's basically about a house kitty (Rusty) going rogue. Maggie and I want to go wild, watch out Garfield, here we come!!! I was inspired by the cat warrior clans. Maggie liked the part about catching mice, birds and rabbits in the forest. My favorite part was when Rusty trusted his own instincts when determining who was a true friend or foe. Mags and I agree that both humans and animals of all ages can benefit from reading this book. We both give it 4 paws up with a tail!

Sammy and Mags

Maggie and Sam's Christmas

2010-12-26T12:59:00.000-08:00

For Christmas Eve, Mags and I decided we needed to prepare. Of course we have been super good to our Humans all year long (we let them hug us). We knew we would be getting some goodies. First I prepared the Christmas Tree, made sure Maggie ate before going to bed (she gets cranky) and I drank my water so I would be refreshed in the morning.

We fell asleep a little after midnight. When I woke up there were these things waiting for us! Maggie was so excited that she jumped straight up into the air and pounced on one of the weird things. I tried to make friends with one but just gave up and bit it!

We had a wonderful Christmas with each other and our Humans. We hope you did too!

Love,

Sam and Maggie

Squirreling Around

2010-12-23T05:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday when Jill opened the door I darted outside. Jill didn't see him but there was a Squirrel on the rock right near the grill. He was up to something. Anyway, I tried to catch him but he tricked me and ran the other way. These little guys are fast. Oh well maybe I will catch him or one of his relatives and invite them over for Christmas Dinner, hmhm, I will try. Sam will like that!

Mags

Manta Rays Rock!!!

2010-12-11T12:23:00.000-08:00

While watching Animal Planet online, Mags and I saw some huge Manta Rays.
I did not realize just how big they really are! They can grow to be 25 feet in length and weigh as much as 5,000 pounds. They are closely related to sharks and stingrays. They don't have stingers. I love them, check out the below video.

Great Manta Ray Video

Sam

There are only four in the world that are in captivity. They are just too big to keep. Not your ordinary pet! I would love to ride on one of their wings. I think it would be a lot of fun!
Mags

Unstoppable Movie Review

2010-12-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

Wow, is all I have to say after watching this movie. This time Paul carried me into the movie theatre under his jacket nobody suspected a thing. Maggie was hanging out in Timea's purse and Jill distracted everyone as we strolled in to take our seats. Paul let me sit on his lap because the movie had me on the edge of my tail. I couldn't look away. Were the children, or horses going to get hit by this un-manned train? Uh, there was so much drama I almost got stressed out. Great True Story! A must see, I give it 4 paws up!!!

Sam

Denzel is hot and Chris Pine rocks. But it's more than hot men, this movie pulls you right in. From what I have read on the Internet there are just a couple of things in this movie that are not true. For instance it takes place in Ohio not Pennsylvania and nobody dies!

I give this captivating movie 4 paws and a tail up!!

Mags

Pumpkin Time is for Everyone!

2010-11-28T14:30:00.001-08:00

Maggie and I realize that it is past Halloween. But we just received this wonderful video from our neighbor cat Sirius and we wanted to share this with everyone. Please don't throw away your pumpkins after Halloween, click on the Link below to see who they can be given to!

YouTube - BIG CAT HALLOWEEN!

Meow,
Sam & Mags

Thanksgiving Turkey Receipe for both Cats and Humans

2010-11-21T10:38:00.000-08:00

One of our really good friends Kathy Anderson emailed this special Thanksgiving recipe. We liked it so much that we are sharing it with all of our Maggie and Sam friends and family!

GETTING READY FOR THANKSGIVING
TURKEY RECIPE
I thought this sounded good! Here is a turkey recipe that also includes the use of popcorn as a stuffing ingredient -- imagine that. When I found this recipe, I thought it was perfect for people like me, who just are not sure how to tell when turkey is thoroughly cooked, but not dried out.
Give this a try.
1 - 15 lb. Turkey
1 cup melted butter
1 cup stuffing (Pepperidge Farm is Good)
1 cup un-popped popcorn (ORVILLE REDENBACHER'S LOW FAT IS BEST)
Salt/pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush turkey well with melted butter, salt,and pepper.
Fill cavity with stuffing and popcorn. Place in baking pan making sure the neck end is toward the front of the oven, not the back.
After about 4 hours listen for the popping sounds.
When the turkey's ass blows the oven door open and the bird flies across the room,.... it's done.
And, you thought we didn't cook...

Love,
Maggie and Sam

Secretariat Movie Review

2010-11-14T14:48:00.000-08:00

Time for another Movie Review by myself and Mags. This time Paul tucked me under his arm and I pretended to be his man purse. Jill put Maggie in her coat and into the movie theatre we all went. Even at an early showing the theatre was packed! Everyone had come out to see the epic story of this great horse. I wasn't disappointed. It was a great flick. At times I felt that Secretariat was trying very hard to communicate with his humans. Sometimes they understood him and sometimes they didn't (humans can be very thick). A must see, I give it 4 paws and a tail up! Check out this picture of Secretariat.
Sammy

Loved it, Secretariat should be nominated as best actor, for an academy award! This horse was amazing. Let the big red horse run!!! I really liked the lady who owned the horse, she had moxie. Her story was just as fascinating as Secretariats. If you get a chance, go see Secretariat it is definitely a 4 paws and a tail up movie!
Maggie

Cats Doing Yoga

2010-11-06T12:52:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a new craze out there of cats doing yoga? These felines are just getting into all crazy like positions, check it out; Cat Yoga Poses! I mean my back is hurting just looking at some of them. I hope I am not expected to do any of these.
Sammy!

I am flexible too, they have nothing on me. I used to be a gymnast. I mean check out my photos. In the first picture I am doing my back strengthening neck move. This strengthens my core. In the second picture I am assuming the crunch position, which works my abbs and torso muscles. These yoga exercises help me to jump on, or evade Sam. Shush don't tell him.

Mags

Repel the Peccary’s

2010-10-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

Mags and I discovered a real problem. The other night we looked out our front window and witnessed these ugly pigs (Javelinas) in our yard! They dug up Paul and Jill's' Agave. Just wait until Paul sees the huge hole that they left!! Someones going to be bacon! Seriously the neighborhood cats have been talking and apparently these Javelinas are a huge issue. They think they are at a salad bar, eating all the cacti and plants out of the yards. Well Maggie and I researched on the Internet and have some solutions for everyone. To remove the pigs from your yard put coffee grounds around the plants. Other home remedies are cinnamon, hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Another known repellent is Coyote pee. Yes I said it Coyote pee. Mags and I are willing to pee around the area but it has to be Coyote pee!

Good Luck

Sam

I love plants, save them from the pigs! Also we don't want to hurt the pigs so becareful and excercise caution.

Mags

Ba Ba Baaaaad Sheep

2010-10-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

Amazing! I know as a cat I have incredible balance and agility. But these Big Horn Sheep crossing the Buffalo Bill Dam in Wyoming are crazy. I mean look at them. They are flat against the Dam licking it. I like salt too, but I usually just lick a human's hand?

Sammy

I am seeing it but I just can't believe it. I would not try that!! I know people think cats are curious, well we are, but we aren't stupid.

Mags

Starry Smooth-Hound

2010-10-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Check out this relatively un-known Shark Species called the Starry Smooth-Hound which lives off the coast of Ireland. These Sharks are about 3 feet in length and 26 pounds. They are miniature sharks. There is not a lot of data on these neat guys but they seem to be growing in numbers. I wonder are they drinking Guinness?
Sammy
By their name I thought they were a type of dog! For more information check out this link; The Starry Smooth-Hound
Maggie

Cougar Envy

2010-10-03T10:16:00.000-07:00

Wow I love this cat, it makes me proud to be related to the Cougar! They are the largest cat

that can purr! They also can run 40mph, this is quicker than a car cruising in the residential areas. The Cougar is the fastest animal in North America! Also they can leap straight up, 16 feet into the air (sometimes I can't even make the kitchen table). Leaping across the room they can cover 45ft in one pounce. Let's suit that Cougar up to play football! It makes me proud to call him a cousin, Love you Coug!

Sammy

I think I get my big eyes from him. Cougars are also known as Pumas. Puma, I like it. The big Puma. Puma Time. Look at those huge Puma Paws, let's hug!

Mags

You Look Different!

2010-09-25T14:05:00.000-07:00

There have been many cases where mother dogs adopt other species and raise them as their own. Meet Lisha who has raised more than 30 animals on her own. She has taken care of Hippos, porcupines, tiger and cheetah cubs! What a dog, read more about Lisha. It's great when animals can help one another out. Mags and I are small, but we really try to help others. I rescued a baby quail whose mother had left it to die. I picked it up and dropped into Jill's hand unscathed. Yup I love animals!

Sammy

I tried to give a bunny a bath and it just hopped away. The same thing happened when I tried to hug a squirrel! Oh well, I will just keep trying.

Mags.

Let the Boy Keep his Pig

2010-09-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of people in the world that are allergic to cats and dogs. I get it, I have a lot of hair. Truth be told I think I am allergic to people, but back to my orginal statement. People are allergic to dog and cat hair, so sometimes they opt for other pets like fish or pigs. This Little boy in Michigan has a miniature pig, his "best friend in animal life". He is allergic to other animals with fur. The Michigan authorities have stated that it is against the law to have a pig live in people's homes! Please check out this link to read more.

This poor boy needs to get a fish

Sammy

It is a shame about the pig, but there are cats and dogs that people are less allergic to. For instance some good choices for dogs are the West Highland White Terrier, The Bichon Frise or the Schnauzer. Some good choices for cats are the Rex, Siberian or Bengal breeds.

Mags

Salt Movie Review By Mags and Sammy

2010-09-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

Time for another movie review. Mags and I again went to the movies in Paul's back pack and Jill's purse. They snuck us into the Farrellis Cinema Supper Club, a fine place to see a movie! This time we saw Salt. An action packed movie. A CIA agent accused of being a Russian Spy goes rogue or does she? I loved it, lots of drama and I couldn't take my eyes off of Angelina Jolie. This one is 4 paws straight up!

Sammy

4 Paws up, just call me Angelina Jomags!

Maggie

Lola is not Trash!

2010-08-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/woman-caught-throwing-cat-in-trash/6j5ti8i?q=Caught%20on%20video&rel=msn&from=en-us_msnhp&gt1=42007

This unbelievable. If this human had not been caught on video, I am not sure I would have believed it. What gets me upset is the fact that Lola was so sweet to this human. I am sending LoLa a Maggie and Sam thinking of you card today!

Sammy

Thank goodness Lalo is okay. Maybe the human was brain damaged? Sometimes you just never know. This is to all my feline friends, please just stay away from the trash cans. Try to greet strange humans in public places and it never hurts to have a feline friend with you. Sam and I stick together!

Mags

Working on the Pet of the Month

2010-08-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Maggie and I pulled an all nighter, drawing this month's Pet of Month. Maggie was jealous because she said that last week's pet of the month Niki looked like me. She wanted this month's pet of the month to look like her. Fat chance!!! You decide for yourself. Does August's pet of the month look like me? Really, whose cutest?

Sammy

Come on, Sam even has the same flowers as Niki! Also whose picture is bigger? I just want all our animal friends to know, we don't pick pet's to be pet of the month just because they look like us! All pet of the months are special.

Mags

Why Do Humans want to Dress us Up?

2010-08-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, Maggie and I were checking out what was happening on the Internet and we stubbled across this. Why do humans like to dress us up and put hats on our heads? My humans know that I don't like this. What this cat is really saying is, are you kidding me? When you put me down I am going to tear right through this pink stuff! Maggie attached the link to this site. You just have to check out these other photos!

Sammy

Wow, pink is not my color! I am so glad I don't have to wear clothes. I really like being naked. Here is the link; Cats and Hats. People don't just dress up cats they do it to dogs too. Look-out fellow animals!

Maggie

Maggie and Sam's Movie Review of Inception!

2010-08-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

This time Paul took me in a back pack and placed me on his lap in the movie theatre. We were up front and personal with the screen. There was lots of action and drama! I literally jumped out of the backpack when I thought I was seriously going to be hit by a train (you just have to see it)! It was amazing. The actors were great but I didn't see any animals in it, hmmm why? I give it 4 paws up!!!

Sammy

Jill's purse was a little cramped and I kept catching my neck in the zipper. The movie was very cool. I love Leonardo Decatpreo. Now I question my dreams. The entire movie was a thriller, I agree with Sam, 4 paws up!

Mags

Naked in my Bed?

2010-08-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

I really don't know why Jill was making a big deal out of me being in her sink this morning. She screamed and darted out. It wasn't like I was naked, I have fur. The sink is cool and big. I like it! This is much more comfortable than laying on the floor!

Sammy

The big lug takes up the whole sink, where I am supposed to sleep? What about me? I guess the tub looks big and roomy, I will go there!

Mags!

National Friendship Day Aug 1st, 2010

2010-07-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that the first Sunday in August is National Friendship Day! It was started in the United States in 1935 and now many countries across the world Celebrate Friendship Day. We want to thank all our animal and human friends for just being themselves. We love you, hugs everyone!

Sammy

Did you know that In 1997, the United Nations named Winnie the Pooh as the world's Ambassador of Friendship? It's true!

Mags

Oil Spill Animal Recovery Update

2010-07-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

Okay here are the facts from the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies ( A Group that loves animals, meow); 319 turtles and 42 dolphins have been found dead on the Mississippi and Alabama Coast, and 35 sea turtles have been rescued! Thanks for your help everyone we are trying.

Sammy

I love Green Sea Turtles they are so pretty. They are endangered and live on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, directly affected by the oil spill. They can grow to the size of about 4 feet and can weigh over 440 pounds. Now that is one big turtle! Sammy and I got to ride one (Andrew) when we were in Florida it was awesome. Let's try and save this great animal.

Mags

Airbender Movie Review by Maggie & Sam

2010-07-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying how excited i was to see The Last Airbender. When Timea and Jill decided to take us to the movies again, i jumped into the back-pack with unbridled enthusiasm. Once in the movie theatre i waited for the story to get good, and waited, and waited. The actors weren't very good and the story felt forced. It didn't really flow at all. Halfway through the movie Jill fed me Tuna Bits to keep me from getting cranky and meowing. Although the music was good, and the special effects rocked i felt let down after we left. I give this movie 3 paws down!

Sammy

I am with Sam on this one. Although, I did like the big monster creature and the little monkey lemur (he looked yummy). Not even halfway into the movie I fell asleep in Timeas' cozy, warm, spacious purse. So that's all i know!

Mags

Crazy State Laws and Funny Humans

2010-07-11T16:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend some of the humans' neighbor friends stopped by Bob & Nancy. I was fine coming out to say hi and greeting them. They didn't try to pick me up and say how big or fat i am. Bob scratched my ears, chin, and stomach all the scratching hot spots! Nancy said i was nice looking. Yes i like Bob and Nancy.

Sammy

I had a lot of work to do so I wasn't into socializing this weekend like Sam! Jill left her computer unattended and I pawed through the Internet. Check out these funny state laws! Apparently you are not supposed to get fish drunk in Ohio, who knew? Crazy State Laws

Mags

Big Fireworks Happy 4th of July

2010-07-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone had a fun and safe 4th of July. Mags and i saw some spectacular fireworks at Harold's Corral in Cave Creek. Mags wanted to ride the mechanical Bull but she had too many drinks and kept sliding off (no claws, no traction)! The Young Country Band played great music and we partied into the night!

Sam

We celebrated the Birthday of the United States on Sunday. Awesome I had too much catnip and Catweiser but hey you have to acknowledge this patriotic holiday. We celebrate our independence from the British Empire on July 4th because the Declaration of Independence was signed July 4th, 1776. We are extraordinary privileged to be American Kitties!

Mags

We are Making a Difference

2010-06-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

Mags and I are working on another piece of art to help save the animals from the oil slick in the Gulf. It has come to our attention that in just one week Kelly Lights' blog Ripple, http://ripplesketches.blogspot.com/ went from having 100 cards to having 600 cards from artists around the world. The blog has raised over $5,000.00 (as of 6/22). Everyone, we are making a difference keep it up! I know you are busy. My full time job is as a limo driver, and Mags is a flower/plant consultant during the day. Plus we do Maggie and Sam's Adventures website! But somehow Mags and I are finding the time to help! We are going to draw another postcard to put on the Ripple website.

Sammy

Thanks for your support and helping us fight this disaster. Kelly said that it takes 3 bottles of Dawn Dish Detergent to wash one bird. One $10 sketch card buys three bottles. Currently everyone has raised enough money to clean roughly 570 birds. Personally Sam and I would like to see these birds out flying again, so please help!

Mags

Smokeys' Performance

2010-06-23T21:05:00.003-07:00

Wow what a treat, Mags and I got to see Smokey Robinson perform. We thought we were going to see a cat because everyone knows that Smokey is a cat's name. Well let me tell you, we were in for a surprise! To get in, I jumped on Paul's' head and everybody thought he had hair! Mags wrapped herself around Jill's neck and bingo she was a fur wrap! The lights went down and the Smokster came out. Man that boy can sing. He sang "Just to See Her", "One Heartbeat" , "Tracks of my Tears" it was awesome. I was keeping time by rapping my paws on Paul's' forehead!

Sammy

That Smokey is one cool cat! He was dancing all over the stage I couldn't look away. Loved it!

Mags

Smokey

2010-06-23T21:05:00.001-07:00

Illustration Friday's Theme this Week "Ripple"

2010-06-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

This week's topic pertains to the Golf Oil Spill. Kelly Light a fellow artist created a blog to help the animals that have become causalities of the Oil Spill. Maggie & Sam want to help too! Please check out Kelly's Blog were many other illustrations can be seen. http://ripplesketches.blogspot.com/

Iron Man 2

2010-06-12T21:09:00.000-07:00

Okay don't tell anyone but Mags and I snuck into the movie theatre to see Iron Man 2! Truth be told I was in Jill's backpack and Mags was in Timea's purse! (great friend neighbor who sometimes takes care of us when our humans are gone.) Anyway loved it! Awesome special effects and a lot of excitement. Definitely a guys movie. I give it 3 paws up!

Sammy

Lots of action I personally think Robert Downey Jr. is sexy even for a human, meow, meow. There was a story line which I wasn't expecting, and it wasn't half bad! Sam and I are now going to get Paul to rent Iron Man 1, we haven't seen it.

Mags

Tuck and Roll Bunnie

2010-06-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

Today Mags and I witnessed something amazing. We had our eyes on the road leading up to the house when we saw a gray bunny roll right under an SUV. The bunny literally did a somersault 3 times (ears and head pinned to its bottom) and than it rolled away from the truck. It didn't get hit! Don't get me wrong, I love bunny briscut. Call it an animal code, but no animal likes to see another animal as road kill. That is just not nature taking it's course. Mags and I saluted the bunny as it ran away!

Sammy

Go Bunny Go!

Mags

Remembering

2010-05-31T20:21:00.001-07:00

Mags and I just want to take a moment here on Memorial Day and remember all the dogs that served in war through-out U.S. History.

Here are just a few hero's there are many more!

Stubby - Bull Terrier Mix - February 1918 he roused a sleeping sergeant to warn the platoon of a gas attack. The soldiers were able to put on masks, they all survived including Stubby :)

Smoky - 4 pound Yorkie - In WW II disassembled communication wires under a Fighter plane Taxi Strip leading to a protected area. This 3 day job took 5 minutes for this dog to climb through 4 inch piles of sand, and a drainage culvert to take out the wires. Smoky saved the planes from being exposed to bombing.

Thank you, to all the Heroic Dogs that have Saved us all!

Sam & Mags

Watching Animal Planet

2010-05-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

Mags and i decided to watch Animal Planet this afternoon. Oh my Dog! There was a huge snake on there, i believe it's name is Ana Conda? It is huge and looks like this! Ugly thing. Humans say that they can be as big as 50-100 feet long. Apparently, Ana likes to squeeze her victims to death and swallow them whole. I am going to think long and hard before i go up to another animal for a hug. I mean really, this girl means business!

Sammy

I am never swimming in the river again! The show said that sometimes Ana eats our cousins the jaguars when she is really hungry. Seriously a jaguar, do you know how fast they are? I am freaking out!

Mags

Moggie is not a Bad Word!

2010-05-19T15:24:00.000-07:00

Jill called me a Moggie today, so I looked it up in Webster Dictionary. Apparently Moggie is a term for a non-pedigree domesticated cat like myself. Moggies are black and white (that's me) and they are the most popular non-pedigree cat (that's me)! Second in popularity is the black cat and in third place is the Tabby cat (that's Maggie, hehehe). I am a MOGGIE, a MOGGIE.

Sammy

Moggie Smoggie whatever, he still doesn't have a pedigree. There are 36 recognised breeds of pedigree cats around the world. The Siamese cat is the most popular. Guess what? I am part Siamese. Paul says I am special.

Maggie

Could I be a Therapy Cat?

2010-05-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

Jill attended Gabriel's Angels breakfast on Friday. Gabriel's Angels is a wonderful organization that brings in therapy dogs to be with abused children. I overheard Jill talking to Paul about it. The dogs really seem to help the children. I want to be a therapy cat. I love to be brushed and i love to have my teeth brushed. These are 2 of the 3 criteria i would have to meet. The 3rd is having to ride in the car and having to wear a harness. I get car sick & i despise harnesses! Humans don't have to wear them, although i have seen a kid on a leash before!

I will have to give this some serious thought, i love kids even if they are human.

Sam

I hate having my teeth brushed, wearing a harness thing and riding in a car. Truthfully i am scared of most humans.

Mags.

Save the Animals from the Oil Spill Thursday!

2010-05-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Maggie and i have been following this tragic event on how the humans dumped oil into the Ocean. Now many animals including precious fish and turtles are going to die. There are many volunteer humans who are trying to rescue the wildlife from the oil. This is a 7-Step process and sometimes the animals don't make it. This is very important if you see an animal affected by the oil spill please call (866) 557-1401. For more on the 7-Step process go to maggieandsam.com it's this May's Animal Story.

Thanks for trying to help!

Mags & Sam

Human Trapped

2010-04-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Today Jill went outside she forgot her keys and locked the door behind her. All I could hear was pounding and pounding. I tried with both my paws to push on the door, but it is really heavy and I couldn't move it. I moved my paws up and down as fast as I could and nothing! Than Paul came and opened the door, thank goodness Jill called him on her cell phone! Wow drama

"I would like a cell phone"

Sam

The noise scared me all that pounding and running, I hid!

Mags

Sun Bathing and Drinking

2010-04-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

Today Maggie and i got to lay out in the sun with our humans. It was so nice. We sat in these reclining chairs and sipped on my favorite drink, kahlua and cream! Our humans drank this stuff that they were calling beer. I have to admit i was a little jealous, until Jill dropped some on the pool deck. She tried to keep me from licking it up, but i got a taste. YUCK, OMD, that stuff is nasty. They can keep drinking it, i don't want any. If i could self vomit i would. But i am not into that!

Sam

Hilarious, Sam gaging heheeee! The sun was nice and warm i am glad i was in my 2 piece. My belly is so white. Sam is so dark that he gets really hot. I don't mean like a good-lookin hot like Morris the Cat. I mean temperature hot! Thank goodness the pool was right there we both were able to cool off. Next time i will put on some lotion.

Mags

MeerKat

2010-04-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

Maggie and i are looking up animal facts to put on http://www.maggieandsam.com/ animal trivia page, and we came across the Meerkat. Maggie thought it was a cat, but it's not. Can you believe it is a mongoose? Here is something that is interesting; they are immune from the poisons of scorpions and snakes! They like to hang out in groups called mobs, and they can dig as much dirt as their own body weight, in a couple of seconds! Wow, impressive, I would like to call the Meerkat a friend of mine.

Sammy

I think the Meerkat is kind-of cute. I heard that some people turn them into pets because they cut down on the rodent population. Check out that tail, its pretty skinny!

Mags

2012

2010-04-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

Last night Maggie and I sat down to watch the movie 2012. This is the movie where the world is predicted to end in 2012. First, the Chopper noise scared me. I almost darted out of my basket thinking I was being hunted. The visuals were unbelievable, I was overwhelmed. However I was disturbed by the fact when they were saving the animals, there wasn't a cat being saved. I saw a giraffe, elephant and a dog all being saved, but no cat! I am a little upset at Roland Emmeric the writer and producer. I might write him.

Sam

Exciting, Space Ships or Arcs? Yellowstone park would be a great place to go on vacation. I liked the geysers!

Mags

Matzah Ball Soup Misshap!

2010-03-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

I love the preparation for Passover. There is nothing like the smell of chicken waifing through the air when Jill makes the Matzo Ball Soup for Seder dinner. I always am able to come up with a piece of chicken that has fallen onto the floor, its great! However, this evening I was feeling like I needed some greens with my meal. Since I wasn't able to escape outside and eat the grass, I munched on the plant behind the couch. Paul made me stop, but I had my fill! Wow those greens really regulate you. I made it to the litter box just in time! But I couldn't seem to shake some of the poop off of my butt. So I scooted across the floor to try to get it off and ran right into Jill! Bam, just like that, I am being hauled off and given a butt sponge bath! It's not my fault I can't use toilet paper, what am I supposed to do? OMD (oh my dog)!

Sammy

LOL
Mags

My Baskets

2010-03-23T21:07:00.000-07:00

I love my baskets. I have three baskets and each of them have a blanket in them. There is a basket in Jill's office (where Maggie and I draw). Another basket is in the living room (where I watch T.V.). The last basket is in the bedroom (where I sleep with Paul and Jill). I love my baskets!

Sammy

The only reason there are baskets is because Sam is so hairy! His fur gets trapped in the blanket and it is easier for Jill to clean (I overhead Jill telling Paul this). But Sam thinks it's because they love him more!! If I try to sleep in any of the baskets, Sam chases me out of them! He is such a bully. Well I have my own bed ( a little shelf in our drawing desk) Yup Jill placed a blanket there, just for me and said it was mine. Take that Sam I have top shelf!!!

Our Cat Friends Max and Jack!

2010-03-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

Max and Jack are two friends of ours that get to go outside. Naturally Mags and I are jealous. They are in an enclosed yard and they can go to the restroom wherever they want. Now that is freedom. Their owners are so good, that they clean up their poop outside. That is service.

Sam

Max and Jack are very lucky. I know why Paul and Jill don't let us out. It's because Sam will eat leaves, flowers and plants and throw-up inside the house. Yuck! Even I get tired of hearing him gag sometimes. So now they wont let either one of us out. Jill says it's for our own good but I now better. It's because of Sam.

Mags

Found!!!

2010-03-08T18:34:00.000-08:00

This is annoying. I have this one spot in the house where nobody knew I would be. I mean even Maggie was clueless! I can open the closet door, it slides. Behind Paul's clothes there is a dry cleaning bag, I slept behind that! Well, Paul found me one day and ratted me out to Jill. Now Jill will come in and pet me whenever she wants. THIS WAS MY SPOT, MY PRIVATE PLACE, RUINED!

Sam

Okay, I don't really have a special spot. I just kind of gauge where the humans are. If they get too close I run, if they look at me wrong I run and I run. Really rest, is for the weary!

Mags

Tilikum the Killer Whale

2010-03-01T08:23:00.000-08:00

I am very sad about Tilikum and the human Dawn Brancheau. It was an accident the whale was just playing. He didn't mean to hurt Dawn. Whales don't realize that humans cannot breath underwater. That is the whole thing with communication. Us animals cannot talk to our humans, it's very frustrating. I realize that if I nap on Jill's head and my leg goes over her nose, she can't breath. I know this because she removes me from her head. However, there is a big difference between 18 lbs and 12,000 lbs! It is very sad.

Sam

I love Killer Whales they have never killed a cat or a human in the wild. Come to think of it I don't think they have ever killed a cat? They are like big dolphins, like our dolphin Joe, who is part of our logo.

Mags

Vistors and a rainey day

2010-02-21T14:36:00.000-08:00

This weekend I tried to run outside and something wet kept hitting me on the head. I ran back inside. We have someone new staying in the guest room. Someone said he is from Texas, all I know is that he is big and loud. I always do my best to meet and greet so I go up to him at random moments. He brought his daughter over for a cook-out. She is very nice and she likes me. I love cook-outs!

Sam

Rain drops keep falling on my head! Cook-out, I love the smell of meat cooking on the grill. I am scared to come out, new people frighten me. I can never tell what they might do. My game plan is to eat, run, and hide out until they are gone!

Mags

Okay Okay

2010-02-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

Man, Jill gives me so many hugs. I sometimes feel like, I am being hugged to death. Don't get me wrong, it is kind of nice. Sometimes it's like a big giant squeezing me at random moments!

Today I was allowed to sit on the dining room table yea!! There were markers, pencils and paper all over the place. Mags and I were trying to come up with a St. Patricks Day Card for March. I do my best thinking on the dining room table.

Sam

I love the color green and beer milk. I have many thoughts for March's Pet of the Month Card. I do my best thinking in a chair at the dining table. Paul sometimes comes over to visit with me. My favorite thing to do is sniff the markers!

Pay Back

2010-02-10T20:05:00.001-08:00

Right after the whole age incident I still couldn't let it go. Usually when Paul and Jill come home I rush over to greet them at the door and I talk to them by meowing loudly. I decided to give them the silent treatment. When Jill came home and it was very dark I didn't announce my presence, I stood still and did not greet her with a meow. She kept calling my name and even though it was pitch dark she bent down and petted me!!!! I looked down and saw that my white paws were glowing in the moonlight!!!!! I will have to wear black mitts next time, and cover up my white chest with something!!

Sulking Sam

Sam still has a bad attitude. There are many times when I wish I was bigger so I could slap him on the head. Currently his big size scares me! I sat on Jill's lap and slept by her side last night. I even reached out to Paul (he makes a lot of noise sometimes and it can scare me) but I try to reach out.

Mags

OMD!!!

2010-02-07T21:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my Dog!!! I overheard Jill and Paul talking and apparently they didn't know my actual Birthday. Jill pulled out my birth certificate and it said June 12, 2000. That means I will be 10 in June. They thought I was going on 9!!! How could they make this mistake? I mean it's bad enough that I would be 52 in Human years and now I am going to be 56!!! I think am starting to feel a pain in my back hip, what if I have arthritis, crap!!! I feel like biting someone.

Sam

Okay, I know Sam is feeling crappy about the whole age thing, but they didn't get me right either. For some reason Paul thought I was years younger than Sam (I know I look better and all, that is probably why). However, I am only a few months younger than Sam. I better put my night creme on my face tonight!

Mags

It Was An Accident!

2010-01-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, I escaped and ran outside yesterday while Paul was working outdoors. So maybe I had a little grass, what's the big deal? This morning my tummy was churning I tried to make it to the cat box but I didn't make it. The poo stuck to my fur and I couldn't shake it. Scooting across the floor didn't help, I just left skid marks. Jill picked me up like a football and dunked me into a tub of warm water. UGH I cried and cried, but the next thing I know I am lathered from head to toe smelling like a baby. Rinsing of the lather is extreme, I don't like it! Next, I am engulfed in a huge towel, that I can't see out of. Is this what it is liked to be kidnapped?

Sam

Jeez I can't protect him, he just brings this crap on himself, no pun intended! I saw the skid marks and than Sam being hauled off into the bathroom. The door is shut but I tried to get in. I hear Sam crying and I can't reach the handle. Oh here Sam comes wrapped up in a towel he looks awful and wet!!

Mags

Bummer!

2010-01-17T16:07:00.000-08:00

This weekend blows for my football teams. The Cardinals tried so hard but in the end they just couldn't pull through! Then if that wasn't enough, my other team the Cowboys lost as well! Oh well, now it is back to watching the Animal Channel for me! To be honest the animals really don't disappoint me.

Sam

Bunny in the yard, bunny in yard. I saw it and started running for it and than smacked into the glass. That hurt! I keep forgetting that I live in a glass house!!!

Mags

The Paper

2010-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

I love laying on the newspaper, especially when Paul is reading it. I will meow to get his attention, he usually ignores me. When he does succumb to my meowing I will try to sit on his lap or chest. This action keeps him from reading the paper. When he puts the paper down I sit on it!

Sam

Found another stuff animal today by the water feature. I picked it up in my mouth and moved it away from the fountain. Hopefully Jill won't trip on it! I can only do so much that girl has got to look where she is walking.

Mags

Gifts and the Play-Off Games

2010-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

I feel like my emotions were up and down this week. The Bengals lost I cried, Dallas won I celebrated. The Cardinals played the most exciting game Mags and I have witnessed in a long time, we hugged!

Sam

Sam keeps taking stuffed animals from Paul and Jill's closet and putting them all over the house. Jill slipped and almost fell down because of one. It was really embarrassing. Sam tells me he is leaving gifts for them because he misses them. I think he might be trying to kill them!!

Mags

New Year Resolutions

2010-01-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

This year I am going to tie my humans to the bed when they sleep. This will keep them from leaving us to go on vacation. (Although our neighbors Timea and Neville took really good care of us while they were gone for the Holidays). Timea petted me a lot and let me talk about my humans. I am going to try to exercise more. I am getting a little chunky around the belly area and Maggie is calling me fat. I am limiting myself to one milk or one yogurt a day not both! I will try to be nicer to Maggie (but she brings it on herself most of time)!

That is enough for now!

Sam

I am so glad Jill and Paul are back, Sam was driving me crazy. Whining all the time, chasing and nipping at me, what a pain! My New Year's Resolution is to paint and draw more. Try to escape I mean meander outside. I would also like to read more cat warrior books.

Mags

One Name

2009-12-15T19:26:00.000-08:00

Yes we have named one kitten! It is the Cutie #1 kittie, which is now named Ramsey. That is a good manly name, nice job. Now let's get one more name for Cutie #2 kittie.

Today I knocked a lot of the water out of the water feature in hopes that the humans will get rid of it. Maybe I can go back to drinking out of the sink tonight!

Sam

Sam is acting crazy. He knocked most of the water out of the fountain and it went everywhere. Jill and Paul thought there was a leak so they are inspecting it. They have filled it up with water to try to determine where the leak is coming from. (Good luck, the leak is Sam)!

Mags

Come On!!!

2009-12-13T21:54:00.000-08:00

Some people have responded to naming the little kitties below. Maggie and I thank you for emailing us through http://www.maggieandsam.com/ on our adventure website. However the kitties still remain nameless. The names that we received Fluffy, Puffy, Muffin are great if you are trying to name hamsters, come on people you have to dig deeper than that!

Both my favorite football teams the Bengals and Cowboys lost today, come on!

I can't seem to get enough water out of that water feature, come on!

Sam

Someone is a little cranky today! I had fun today. I slept, watched the rain come down, slept and ate. Did I mention I drank from that cool fountain that is just for us!

Mags

Hmmm New Water Feature

2009-12-12T15:40:00.000-08:00

Remember how I was telling you how Paul and Jill don't like it when I am on the counter tops? Well the same rule apparently applies to the bathroom sinks. Both Mags and I love to drink straight from the sink. The water makes this little splashy noise that we like, and it seems so fresh and pure. Mags and I were perfectly happy trying to drink from the sinks, but we are constantly being put on the floor! I mean what exactly is the problem? It's not like we are licking the sink (well maybe just a little)! Only Mags has germs. Anyway the next thing we know there is a new fountain for us to drink from in the kitchen!

Sam

Wow, we have our own personal running water fountain in the kitchen I love it! The water is fresh and it runs day and night. I do miss staring at Paul and Jill when I sit on the Bathroom sinks. I like to look at them, they are so funny. Paul likes to put this white cream on his face and then cut off his fur I mean hair with a blade. Who would do that? It looks painful, but yet I am fascinated, I can't look away!

Mags

A Tribute to our Neighbor Cat

2009-12-01T19:30:00.000-08:00

I will always remember Chloe's big blue eyes she makes me smile

Sam

I loved Chloe's kind heart and Spirit. We will always remember you Chloe!

Mags

Watching the Humans Cook

2009-11-29T21:13:00.000-08:00

Okay I have to admit that the smells from the kitchen drive me crazy. Especially when I know for a fact fish, shrimp or chicken is in the skillet. I really don't see any harm in being on the counter tops. I mean come on I am just watching. Jill gets really bent out of shape when she sees me on the counter so I am of course obedient. I sit on the bar stool instead when she glares at me! Of course when she isn't looking I put both my paws on the counter top and I try to inch forward as close as possible.

Sam

Humans are so funny they think that we are not on to them, right! When Paul is cooking I like to rub into his legs. He thinks I am being loving, actually I am trying to trip him. Sometimes I can get a piece of meat or fish if he is being clumsy. It's great!

Mags

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T19:46:00.000-08:00

Wow it's Thanksgiving I love this Holiday. I eat and sleep and eat and sleep, wait that is everyday! I have a lot to be Thankful for, the Dallas Cowboys winning, the turkey scraps that fall to the floor, my warm bed by the fireplace, my creative drawing skills, the www.maggieandsam.com website for people and animals, humans who love me and most of all, Mags.

Sam

I love life!

Mags

New Additions to the Home! Lets Help!

2009-11-21T10:53:00.000-08:00

Our friends Toni and Frances just brought home 2 little kitties! They are so cute. I love kitties! However Toni and Frances need help they don't have names for them yet. Here is my favorite he is a little boy with a mixed background, can you help me name him?

Sammy

Welcome to the world little ones. I love their markings. Their personalities are almost as cute as Sam's and mine, but not so much! They seem to be needy and they cry a lot. We are trying to help name them. Can you please help us? Please post your suggestions we would love to hear from you. Here is my favorite, the little girl with great eyes.

Mags

It's A Dream Come True!

2009-11-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it, but the Bengals beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh! Yes the Big Kitties are on a roll. They are taken names and kicking butt! I love football!

Sam

Whatever, Sam. I mean it was an exciting game and all but Sam slept through half of it. Paul and Jill were sitting on the couch, the next thing I know Jill is napping and Sam is napping right beside her. When they woke up there was 2 minutes left to the game. Yeah they are big football watchers, more like sleepers! It was a good game though. Paul and I watched it all, and it was very exciting. I was bummed that Dallas lost but there is always next week!

Mags