Queen Beast: Merlina

As anyone who has a cat knows, a cat is never "other" nor should they ever be distastefully lumped together with lowly dogs. Therefore, Miss Merlina gets her own post. Duh! Merlina is now 12 years old, and has long since ruled the household. Someone once said that it's not a matter of training a cat, but a cat training their owner--I mean, subjects--and this picture clearly captures her disappointment in my ridiculously slow learning curve. Merlina loves to hate the dogs and might vaporize if she couldn't "innocently" saunter by the dogs (especially Max) flicking her tail just so and looking so sleek, and did I mention innocent? When Max reacts by chasing her or cornering her--he plays along well and always falls into her trap (dumb dogs always do)--then he gets in trouble. Merlina is then satisfied that she reigns on as Queen. And truly what better way to show your superiority than by manipulating lesser beings? Occasionally, Merlina likes to snuggle and be pet, but I have sworn to keep it a secret so that news of her softer side won't get out. So, shhhhh, don't tell!