Linus was bored so getting another animal seemed like a sane idea. (Linus was not consulted in this decision)
The answer was Mia from Capitol Area Humane Society. Mia was a half-price adoption since it was a promotion. That and how cute she was helped offset the parasite problem.

Linus is very interested in Mia, but not outwardly aggressive.

Update:Mia and Linus are getting along- they even sit next to each other. Linus “lets” Mia win when they tussle.

Congratulations Liz and Ben!

Recently I decided that it would be a good idea to train the cat to ring a bell attached to a string when he wanted attention. As a reward for ringing the bell we got out the laser pointer and did a 2-3 minute routine around the carpet. The upside to the training is he has almost forgotten the bad behavior that got him attention before (chewing things and shaking potted trees). The downside is Linus gets really bored if you are sitting reading, watching TV, or talking. Really bored, like ring the bell 10 times an evening bored. After replacing the laser pointer batteries once, we have alternated the bell ringing with a treat.

If you want to know how to train a cat to ring a bell- here is the science:
1. Clicker train the cat to ring the bell with treats as a reward.
2. Next, reward each bell ring with a click and laser pointer session.
3. Step back and point the laser on the toy/bell until the cat swats it, then move the pointer on ground and then return it to the toy at the end of the session.
4. Be prepared to be annoyed.

Silly cat!

Okay- as a public service message: If you have a Moen 7570 one handle pull out spout handle faucet that is a few years old- look under your kitchen sink, it’s probably leaking. You’ll probably need a “One Touch vacuum breaker conversion kit” Model 100593 so the stinking thing doesn’t leak.

Why does it leak? Because the vacuum breaker (plastic cylinder cowl over the stem body that has holes covered by a rubber burp valve) wasn’t well designed so the inside body of the faucet drips water occasionally and will be impossible to find the source of. Seriously, the water drips from inside the faucet, above sink level and comes out of a random hole (in a 3-holed sink base).

Moen of course will replace the part for free if you contact them- but you’ll have to pull your hair out in frustration first, trying to find the leak, then call/email them (it will make me feel better, that is what I went through).

Of course if you are keeping score- Price Pfister charges $5 for “shipping” if you need replacement parts. It is 50/50 if you get the right part, also. They are stingy with O-rings, so make sure you ask.

Or, hire a plumber.

Update 11-2-2005: I noticed a lot of people finding this article from searching the Internets. You’ll find that the faucet leaks under the sink, ie: in the cabinet area. This will occur infrequently, usually after the sink has run. You may notice a few drip-drip sounds, or reach for some treasure stashed under your sink and realize it is wet. It is the transport from the valve body to the spray head that leaks, not a constant leak at the nozzle.