October 12, 2013 -- 10:55pm
Oct. 10, 2013
Oct. 11, 2013 - International You Go Girl! Day
October 12, 2013
11pm.........
Dear friends in the Cat Blogosphere and of this blog, around the world:
Nikita, here and, as you know, for the past 3 years my health has been getting progressively worse; from arthritis in my joints, to possible inflammatory bowel disease, liver and kidney disease or something else, that has caused me to lose my appetite, thus going from a robust 17 lbs. to a fragile 9 lbs.
I have not been able to explain to Daddy Kiril how I feel or why I treat eating as such a chore, making his shopping life a guessing game, I just know I don't feel right. I can still be frisky and playful, and have been my usual creative and outspoken self on this blog, but all the tests and meds daddy could afford have made no dent in my condition.
The passing of Cokie the Hollywood Insider, on the first, coupled with all that has happened in the aftermath of my last medical visit on 9/26, caused me to spend more than a week using my napping and snoozing time to do some serious thinking.
Elvira knew something was seriously up so, from what daddy told me, she has spent all month frequently napping and keeping watch, under my favorite chair, as I slept.
I have decided to retire, turning the reigns and everyday responsibility, of this blog, over to my young protege, Elvira Mistress of Felinity, the sassiest lady cat on the internet!
She has come a long way from her very first post (includes link to the follow-up, too!), in Sept. 2010 and, in my view, is more than ready to carry the torch forward in new and better ways.
I know that friends and followers, of this blog and my own long career (Online since 1998, blogging since 2002, blogging seriously, since 2004/2005) will support and encourage her, as you have done me.
Tomorrow, I will post Carnival of the Cats #500.
I also am working on the introductions to the last 2 entries in our series about Ideal Balance cat food.
Over the summer, Elvira and I began to, at last, read a few more of the cat books in our large collection, writing reviews that we have not yet shared. Soon, my contributions will be posted, I promise, as will hers.
What will I do, in my retirement? As Blogger Emeritus and retired Professor of the Nikita Institute for Feline Studies?
Aside from advising and encouraging Elvira in her efforts with this blog, I will be working with Daddy Kiril on eventually doing more with his years of blogging archives, including all of my own contributions.
I will also encourage Elvira to submit things for publication elsewhere than this blog, thus developing a more varied presence as a writer.
In between all of this I will nap, snooze, and continue to worry over Daddy Kiril, encouraging HIM to also submit for publication, too.
My retirement will be made so much easier when I can stop worrying about daddy but, like him, I trust in a higher power to look out for our little family, guiding us safely, prosperously, creatively, into the future.
Mr. Nikita
Written: October 13, 2012
****UPDATE - 10/25/13****
Mr. Nikita RIP: My Original Muse...Never to Be Forgotten
****END UPDATE****
This day had to come, but it is a sad day. Nikita, we will miss you blogging, but we understand you know best what you can handle and whether Elvira is ready.
Posted by: jansfunnyfarm | October 18, 2013 at 11:29 AM
I think you are wise indeed and your retirement should be worry free. I have not been feeling well lately so we have not kept up like we should.
Posted by: Brian | October 18, 2013 at 12:31 PM
I know you have thought this through and I know you will be able to retire knowing Elvira will take over the blog and do a great job. I will be here to follow as I am sure all our friends will be. Hugs GJ x
Posted by: Ginger Jasper | October 18, 2013 at 01:37 PM
We'll miss you, but we understand your need of retirement after so many years of blogging. We are looking forward to reading Elvira, and we wish you pawsome naps ! Purrs
Posted by: Loupi and Zorro | October 18, 2013 at 03:24 PM
oh Nikita we will miss your wise words! enjoy your retirement dood - you have earned it.
Mistress Elvira - you have some big paws to fill, but you learned from the master and we know you will do an outstanding job.
Posted by: The Meezers | October 18, 2013 at 06:34 PM
Dear Nikita,
I'm so glad you are going to take a rest and enjoy your remaining days in style.
You will be missed dearly but I'm sure that your protege, the Sassy Elvira, and your Dear Dad, will keep us posted on all pertinent news!
Snuggle up in the coziest spots in the house. Watch the birdies from your favorite window. Make the most of your days.
Happy Friendship Friday to you! :-)
Posted by: Create With Joy | October 18, 2013 at 06:35 PM
Purrrraying for you, cousin Nikita, and for your dear family! We know you have made the best choice, but will miss your point of view on things. Looking forward to seeing Elvira's take on her things, though! Take care and enjoy those sun puddles (and Elvira's & your daddy's care of you)!
Posted by: the PDX pride | October 19, 2013 at 04:14 AM
Enjoy your retirement you have so earned it and we are sure that Elvira will carry on admirably and she will have you to consult with if she needs help.
Posted by: Scylla, Socks, Tuiren & Fenris | October 19, 2013 at 08:03 AM
Sending lots of purrs and pawhugs to your Nikita and a blessed retirement.
Posted by: Angel Abby | October 19, 2013 at 09:53 AM
Enjoy your retirement, Nikita.
Posted by: Lee County Clowder | October 19, 2013 at 12:05 PM
Dear Friends,
Mom and I thank you so much for the kind comments you left on our blog regarding dear Sweet Pip's trip to the rainbow bridge...
He loved well and was well loved.
Hugs Madi and Mom
Posted by: Madi and Mom | October 19, 2013 at 05:40 PM
Oh what a big step!
Sounds like you've definitely earned some rest.
Good that you'll be right there to guide Elvira, though.
Looking forward to her taking the reins.
Enjoy some extra long, relaxing naps, Nikita!
Posted by: Rascal and Rocco | October 24, 2013 at 01:51 AM