• Home
  • About
  • Advertise
  • Contact
  • Disclosure Policy

Rascal and Rocco

Written by L. E. Mastilock

  • Meet the Boys
  • Pets and Animals
  • Animal Causes
    • Monday Matters
You are here: Home / Pets and Animals / Cats’ Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy Heart, Dealing with loss, and a Big Surprise!

Cats’ Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy Heart, Dealing with loss, and a Big Surprise!

February 27, 2013 by L. E. Mastilock

It’s been a rough couple of weeks and I haven’t been able to write about it until now, but we lost a very close family member recently. It was the day after she passed away and I couldn’t stop tears from falling, though I was trying to function enough to make lunch for the kids.

As I stood against the kitchen counter, trying to see through my red, blurry eyes, Rascal jumped up onto the counter, sliding in his not so graceful way (he always seems to over estimate his jumps!) across the tile, and jammed his head under my hand. It had apparently been hovering in mid air holding a spatula. I switched hands and gave him some love. He must have known I needed it more than he did!

Then of course, in Rascal style, he leaned too far, his back legs slipped off the counter, there was a moment of legs and claws scrambling to find a hold, and before I could help him, he was twisting in the air and PLOP, landed flat on his back on the kitchen floor! He sped off with his wounded pride and I couldn’t help smile! Even a little chuckling was in order! Thank you cat, for making me laugh when nothing was needed more!

As I said, it’s now been a few weeks, there were some more moments the cats brought out a smile here and there. You may have seen some funny pics and videos on my Instagram, FB, and Twitter:

Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy Heart

Now, I always have a water glass around, usually on the table. Throughout the day I sip from it as I walk by. I’ve done this every day for years! This particular day, I walked by and caught Rocco’s head in my glass! I am still trying not to think about how many times this has happened before! I choose to believe it was the first time ever. Yes it was!!! 

I now use my travel water bottle more often.

Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy Heart
This day Rascal had it out for the blinds! Apparently I did not raise them high enough and they kept touching the tip of one ear. He could take it no longer and showed them who was boss!

Then he found that it was nice to rub his head against, see following video. (I couldn’t switch to camera fast enough to catch the attack, but I’m glad I got this picture)

After that I raised them up for him, but as soon as I walked away, he pounced on the string and almost broke it! There’s no winning with this one.

Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy HeartI’m so blessed to have the cats (and kids) to take my mind off the deep sadness that is otherwise overwhelming. However, as the days went by, it seemed to get worse rather than better. Especially for my husband (it was his mom that passed). The cats did their absolute best to cheer him up.

I know there’s no fixing it, but desperate measures were needed to bring some cheer this past weekend. And since it so happened to be National Pet Adoption Weekend, I told a little white lie and snuck off by myself to the SPCA! I decided if the perfect dog was there it was meant to be, if not, I’d go home and not mention it.
He’s been wanting a dog (yep, I said DOG) and my son is at the perfect age to start caring for one. I did not want one right now, though I do love dogs, because I knew it would be impossible to find one that fit all my requirements for a decent price. 
My Unreasonable, but hardly flexible Requirements of Dog:
I am a BIG dog lover (my last dog, and first baby, was a Rottweiler/German Shepherd Mix and he was gorgeous), but my house and yard are small-
Must be bigger than a chihuahua, but on the smaller side
Must have no relation to any Chihuahua
Great with kids
Great with cats
Not yappy!!!!!!!
Not fluffy!!!!!!!
short, but soft hair (little to no shedding)
not a digger
not a barker
not a chewer (last dog chewed every kid toy he could find, all the chair legs, and through the fence!)
not a jumper
not a drooler
no smashed face or buggy eyes (silly, yes, but I’m a BIG dog person)
not a snorter (we dog sat a few months back for this adorable pug that snored whether he was asleep or awake!)
mellow, but likes to play fetch
loving and sweet temperament

So this list basically cancels out any and all dogs you would ever find at the pound. I mean, my last dog was the love of my life, but half the things listed were a big problem and I did not want to deal with any of them again any time soon! However, something was nagging me to go look (Grandma? I think so). 
I walked in and the first dog I see… well…. lets just say there’s been a lot more smiles in the house the last few days!
Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy Heart
Meet Max
We’ve had him almost three days now and he’s so perfect (everything on the list) that it’s scary! He’s three years old, a Terrier/Basenji mix (and I have always liked Basenji’s!), trained, great with the kids and with the cats! He ignores them and they’re already getting used to him being here.  
Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy HeartNot that they weren’t pissed! Trust me! They raised their fur, hissed and let him know he was by no means sticking around. Sorry cats. They’re the same size as him, maybe a bit bigger, so I was afraid they’d gang up on him, but he shows no fear. Just stares at them and they stare right back, with a much less pleasant expression. They’re spending more time on counter tops, and he’s made himself right at home. Even curling up for his naps on their couch, but I didn’t hear any hissing today!
Rascal and Rocco- Cat's Mishaps Bring Cheer to a Heavy HeartMy husband was totally surprised and thrilled! And my son is in seventh heaven! Every boy does need a dog and this one has had more exercise in two days than he’s probably ever had! We’re all much happier and completely in love with this sweet little guy. 

Welcome to the Crazy house Maximillion! 

And thank you Grandma. We love you. 

 

Filed Under: Pets and Animals Tagged With: adorable, cats, crazy, Dealing with loss, dogs, home, kids, love

Comments

  1. Beth says

    September 16, 2015 at 1:25 am

    I’m sorry for your loss! I bet she sent Max to you to help cheer everyone up. I’ve always found a lot of comfort in having pets and Max sounds like he is just perfect! There are so many wonderful dogs in the shelters and I’m glad you found the just the right one for your family!

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      September 17, 2015 at 4:42 am

      Yes, I believe she did!

  2. Jeanne Melanson says

    September 15, 2015 at 8:27 pm

    So sorry for your loss, but congratulations on your new family member. Does this mean you’ll be blogging about dogs now too? ๐Ÿ™‚

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      September 17, 2015 at 4:42 am

      Oh yes, Max has been quite active on the blog since then

  3. Marjorie and Team Dash Kitten says

    August 26, 2015 at 4:38 am

    I can’t see what is wrong with that list at all. We all just keep mental lists even if we don’t realise it.

    He looks a cute!!

  4. robin lorraine williamson says

    November 23, 2013 at 2:53 pm

    Hi leah I'm so sorry for your loss. Thankful you found another joy to add to your life. The boys know you needed max to help cheer the family. Trust me they'll be curling up together soon. Have a great Thanksgiving Zen hugs from Frankie and Lorraine

  5. Czjai Reyes-Ocampo says

    March 9, 2013 at 1:27 am

    Awww… so adorable! Makes me miss my dear ShihTzu, who passed away a year ago.

  6. DelSheree Gladden says

    March 7, 2013 at 11:07 pm

    Sorry to hear about your loss, Leah. A few years back we had two family members die within a week of each other. It's a difficult time for the whole family. I'm so glad you had your animals to offer a little cheer to your family. I loved your list of requirements for dogs. I have a similar list ๐Ÿ™‚

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 7, 2013 at 11:16 pm

      Wow, I can't even imagine having to deal with so much loss at once! And someone else commented, it's good to have unreasonable lists sometimes. Sure has worked in this case! Thanks for commenting

  7. Karen Dawkins says

    March 7, 2013 at 8:34 pm

    I have ALWAYS been a cat person… my sweet cat lived to the ripe old age of 24. I NEVER wanted a dog. Then I met Daisy. She's a poodle, jack russell mix. She barks too much, but other than that, she's absolutely the best dog ever… Amazing enough to make me like her more than my beloved cat. She is teachable and fun, sensitive and sweet, and very, very, very loving! She makes me laugh — when she falls asleep in a patch of sun on the stairs and rolls over and down… Twice! I simply love her!

    Please do not share this comment with my husband! Ever!!! He'd be jealous (but I do love him, too)

    May your hearts continue to heal as you adjust to the new normal without Grandma/Mom.

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 7, 2013 at 11:13 pm

      Too funny- dog rolling down the stairs! Thanks for sharing that! Don't worry, I won't tell your hubby a thing ๐Ÿ˜‰

  8. ReviewsSheROTE Pamela R says

    March 7, 2013 at 8:28 pm

    sorry for you loss, but you must enjoy the new life. Welcome Max =)

  9. Life by Cynthia says

    March 7, 2013 at 6:27 pm

    I'm sorry to hear of your loss. We are going through a similar situation. My Grandma is in her final moments and my heart is heavy. Your post perked me up, thanks!

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 7, 2013 at 7:03 pm

      So sorry to hear, but glad I made you smile. It's never easy to let go.

  10. Claire Bertolini says

    March 3, 2013 at 5:28 pm

    Hello and welcome in the CatBloggosphere ! Purr and cuddles. Loupi and Zorro on Mum's account

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 3, 2013 at 7:26 pm

      Thank you!

  11. Katie and Glogirly says

    March 1, 2013 at 7:18 pm

    Thanks for friending us on BlogPaws! We wanted to come over and say hello.

    So sorry for your loss…our pets have an amazing way of reading our emotions and making our hearts hurt just a little less.
    Congratulations on Mr. Max!!! What a sweetie…

    xo, Glogirly

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 2, 2013 at 3:17 am

      That they do! Thank you for taking the time to visit and comment! Looking forward to more fun with Katie and Waffles!

  12. The Island Cats says

    March 1, 2013 at 3:17 am

    We heard about you over at the CB and came by to say hello. We're so sorry for your loss. But we're glad the kitties brought you some comfort. We're good for that! And that new woofie, Max, is very cute…though we don't really like woofies much…but that's because we're cats. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Wally, Ernie & Zoey

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      March 1, 2013 at 5:16 pm

      Understandable, I'm surprised my kitties are getting along so well with this woofie already! They're completely ignoring him now. Probably they've decided he's so inferior as to be beneath their notice. They're putting their noses in the air, pretending he doesn't exist. Thank you for stopping b and commenting!

  13. Baby Patches says

    February 28, 2013 at 10:16 pm

    Hai Leah, Rascal, Rocco, and now Max! Its furry nice to meets you. I so sorry to hear about your loss for your family. It is not easy but I know how us fur babies have a way to bring love to our peeps hearts. I hopes you all get along really well. I has a blog and helps my momma run our shop. I hope you can stops by. Purrrrrrrrs

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 11:42 pm

      Thank you. Yes, don't know what I'd do without my furry babies! And the kitties are already ignoring Max! I can't believe they're getting along so well!

  14. William says

    February 28, 2013 at 5:44 am

    Hello, Welcome to the CB, after reading this first post I can tell that your stories will be very interesting. We will add you to our follow list.
    —William

    From William's Mum – that is so sweet that she "sent" that little doggie to you, I still think that my Grammie "sent" me William after she passed a short time before we moved to CA in 2008.
    The pain will heal in time.
    —Amanda

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:43 pm

      Yes, and he was found stray the day after she passed, coincidence? I don't believe in coincidences. Thanks for the follow! I'll be checking out your page!

  15. Joaniecat says

    February 28, 2013 at 2:04 am

    What a sweet addition to your family. Your house is way to big to be without a dog. hehe.
    Love you lots. Mom/Grandma

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:39 pm

      oh yes, still looking for a Great Dane! ;P

  16. Tillie and Georgia says

    February 28, 2013 at 1:33 am

    Hi kitties and welcome to the cat Blogosphere.
    It is a safe and friendly place to be ๐Ÿ™‚
    We look forward to learning more about you.
    Drinking from Moms glass…pawsome, heehee
    We also want to say we are sorry for your recent loss.
    Comforting purrs to all.
    Purrs Tillie and Georgia,
    Treasure,Tiger,JJ and Julie

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:44 pm

      Thank you. They both should be named Rascal, that's for sure!

  17. The Crew says

    February 28, 2013 at 1:25 am

    Hi guys, and welcome to our cat blogging community. Keep on helping your Mom & Dad 'cause they really need you right now.

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:45 pm

      Thanks for commenting. Don't know what I'd do without these two butting in to insist I crack a smile!

  18. NTM and The Purries says

    February 27, 2013 at 9:37 pm

    Aw, I love Max's perky ears! So glad there are new smiles in your home.

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:45 pm

      Thank you! He's been such a gift to all of us!

  19. KitKat says

    February 27, 2013 at 9:17 pm

    Glad to see you are on the CB. We don't have a blog but have been following so many since 2007. We have a lot of kitteh friends who have blogs and hope to make friends with you. We are so sorry for your loss.
    We will be checking back.
    Smoochies.
    Angel Normie, Mika, Sasha & Grady Lewis

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:48 pm

      Thank you! So many wonderful new friends! I'm finding that cat lovers are some of the friendliest people! (and their kitties, too) So happy to be part of such a fun community

  20. Seasonal Eating (Robin) says

    February 27, 2013 at 9:16 pm

    Sorry for your loss, Leah. Max looks like a perfect addition to your household…I'm betting that by next winter the cats will be snuggling up with him. ๐Ÿ™‚

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:49 pm

      It sure hasn't taken long for them to get comfortable with him! They're pretty much ignoring him already. Thanks for commenting. ๐Ÿ™‚

  21. The Lee County Clowder says

    February 27, 2013 at 9:14 pm

    Hey, Rascal & Rocco, and the woofer, too (sigh). Welcome to the Cat Blogosphere.

    Enjoy!

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:50 pm

      Thank you! Such warm welcomes! Glad to be part of such a great community

  22. Mariodacat says

    February 27, 2013 at 8:57 pm

    I just came over from the CB also. What a great blog. Sorry you had to go thru a loss recently. Congratulations on finding the purrfect dog. He is a cutie. .

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:52 pm

      Isn't he?!! And that's coming from someone who's never been a small dog lover. He's sure brought a lot of sunshine with him. Thanks for your comments

  23. ~*Connie*~ says

    February 27, 2013 at 8:49 pm

    *waves hi*

    another one from the blogosphere..

    Wonderful post, so descriptive, well written and heartwarming. So sorry about your loss, but so sweet of your kitties to brighten your day.

    Sometimes having a list of impossible brings you the most wonderful things. Congratulations on Max!

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:54 pm

      What fabulous compliments! (*blush) Thank you! So glad I have the kitties, and now Max, to chase the blues away!

  24. The Florida Furkids says

    February 27, 2013 at 8:32 pm

    Max is adorable! We're glad you found the perfect pup! Our furkids really do help us heal.

    The Florida Furkids

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:55 pm

      So true. Don't know what I'd do without them. They are the best at bringing smiles at unexpected moments. And isn't he?! I love that little pup!

  25. Jan's Funny Farm says

    February 27, 2013 at 8:11 pm

    Pets are such a comfort when we're grieving. Sorry for the loss of your mother-in-law.

    Welcome to Max. Sounds like he fits right in.

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 6:58 pm

      Thank you! He's a perfect fit! He's been really mellow, but then yesterday after his first bath, he was so happy he spazzed out and ran all over the house, intermittently rolling around like a goof; cracking us all up. Yes, he definitely belongs in this family!

  26. Bellen says

    February 27, 2013 at 3:03 pm

    I too read on the Cat Blogosphere site that you were new, so I thought I'd come over and see what's going on. I'm sorry for the loss to your family. Such things are never easy to recover from. But the two cat brothers are obviously affectionate with each other that I'm sure they will come to appreciate Max soon.

    Just a note: you may get a number of responses from 'Anonymous'. I don't know if the comment you've already received means anything to you, but many will be semi-incomprehensible and just advertising for sites about wrenches and watches and the like. You can avoid these by adjusting your 'comments' to require actual addresses from respondents.

    Otherwise – welcome to the Cat Blogosphere!

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 28, 2013 at 7:00 pm

      Thank you! I'm surprised how fast the felines are adjusting to the new member of the family! They're already ignoring him. And thanks for the note! I changed my settings. ๐Ÿ˜‰

  27. Random Felines says

    February 27, 2013 at 1:56 pm

    We just wandered over from the CB – welcome!! We are very sorry for your loss, but glad the cats and the new addition are bringing you some joy. ๐Ÿ™‚

    • L. E. Mastilock says

      February 27, 2013 at 6:35 pm

      Thank you so much!

Custom Pet Portraits

Order your custom pet portrait now in time for the holidays. Perfect Christmas gifts for animal lovers of cats, dogs, any pets or animals

Books We’re Part of

  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Rascal and Rocco logo

Welcome!

I have these two crazy cats that are always getting into strange and hilarious situations! They are brothers. My little family adopted them...More About Me

Popular Posts

The Laziest Cat

Ever feel like the simplest movement is extremely … [Read More...]

Dog Approved #AlpoDogBiscuit

What's Max's favorite thing?  Besides his … [Read More...]

An Inspiration to the Catblogosphere

A Big Name in the Cat Blogging World Has Left us with Broken … [Read More...]

Search This Blog

Follow on Instagram

rascalandrocco

I told you not to go out. It's cold out there, dum I told you not to go out. It's cold out there, dummy!
.
Rascal went out and it started snowing a little bit. He wasn't sure what was happening, but sure wanted back in quickly.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#catsagram #coldcat #kitty #meow #๐Ÿ˜ธ #instacat #purrs #fluffy #ohmycat #sillykitty #outdoors #catsofinstagram #catsrule #notsowildanimal #brr #blackandwhite #rascalandrocco #double #catlover #twins #happinessis #saveme #fool
Load More Follow on Instagram

Friends and Sponsors

Your Ad Here... Details
Follow this blog
Clean, Comfy Rooms from $49.99 at Select Locations

Grab My Button


<div class="Rascal and Rocco button" style="width: 150px; margin: 0 auto;"> <a href="http://rascalandrocco.com" > <img src=" https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-trizZmYMoJA/Vu5RFcO8uUI/AAAAAAAAYpg/DiAVyMWksQwRjE-tWXqGlW28mi61U8awwCCo/s250-Ic42/RascalandRocco%2B250x250.png" alt="Rascal and Rocco" width="250" height="250" /> </a> </div>

Pet Parade



We’re Featured!



Visit BlogPaws Community
Brian's Home Thankful Thursday Hop Catblogosphere.com Blog the Change

Categories

Search This Blog

Disclosure

Want good Karma? Don't steal my stuff. All writing, photos, artwork, etc on this blog are mine and shall not be used without my written permission.

Some links on this site are affiliate links. I earn a small commission from sales generated through these links. Help me afford to keep on blogging! Click on the image below to view my full disclosure policy.


Archives

BlogCatalog

Copyright © 2023 · The Serena Theme By Blogelina · Built on the Genesis Framework

Copyright © 2023 ยท The Serena on Genesis Framework ยท WordPress ยท Log in