The years are going by quickly. Our ship’s cat Bengie just turned 19, the equivalent of 92 in human years.
Ok, folks, it’s me, Bengie the Bengal, mistress of Anui, and it’s my turn to write the post since it is my birthday. I turned 19 on August 28.
Although I am slowing down a lot, and am gradually getting thinner despite eating like a labrador, I am told I still have some spunk in me. Who knows how much longer I will be bossing my humans around, but as long as they feed me, pat me, give me a warm place to snooze, let me sit on their lap when I want, and I have a chance to wander ashore from time to time, I am happy. I am a bit stiff and arthritic, but hanging in there!
Here are a few recent photos of me. See… still looking good! Which one is your favourite?
By the way I thought I’d let you know that my super-humans have won their case with the insurance company for the repairs to Anui’s rudder and dagger board. It took ages, lots of angst and email exchanges!
We have been in Gladstone for over 6 weeks now. We are just a few days from reinstalling the repaired rudders and departing, which is a shame ‘cos I quite like wandering around the shipyard! Don’t tell my humans I said that or they might leave without me. That would be a terrible birthday present!
Sv-Anui 
Happy Birthday, Bengie!! You are a handsome dude! 😻 I’m glad that the case was won and yay for getting out of port soon, wonderful! ❤️😊🇦🇺
Tail cuddle for you, John 🐱
Aw, thanks Bengie! ❤️😻❤️
Bengie! Happy, happy, happy birthday to you – I could not have woken up to a better incoming post than this – wow! Thought we were about the same age – huh, not all that much fun at times, but we are still managing with a loud ‘miaow’ and a big smile! And, i do not know which of your photos I like most- your humans are not bad with the camera 🙂 ! Perhaps the one of you at the tip of the boat telling Daddy which way to go! Oh, isn’t it good Mom and Dad FINALLY got all that silly paperwork done and will be in a more huggy mood again! OK, buddy . . , enjoy > my genie has gotten lost again so I can’t come for a pat and a luvverly fishy meal with you 🙂 🙂 🙂 !!!
Morning Eha! I was so looking forward to your message! Big long head butts for you my friend. Glad you like the pic of me at the front of the kayak… it’s a bit unstable but quite fun! 🤩
Many happy returns of the day Bengie 😊
May we all age as well as you!
Pass on my congratulations to your humans on their good result with the insurance after their persistent effort
All the best, Murray
Thanks Murray! They don’t give in easily!
Happy Birthday, my darling girl! Giving you as many hugs as you can stand from me. Much love, Trish.
Keep those hugs coming, Trish. Are you coming to visit? I’d like to collect them in person! Meows 🐈
I definately would love to give them to you in person. Hopefully within the next week. See you soon.
Happy birthday, Bengie! Your pictures look amazing and I’m so glad to hear you’ve been doing well. Your humans love you so keep doing your thing and stay healthy. And congrats on getting the repairs underway and the win with the insurance company.
Happiest of birthdays!
Thanks Esther, I will! 😘
Happiest birthday to Bengie!! I’m sure your super humans had some special treats to help you celebrate.
Many pats and much love from both of us xxx
Big head butts and tail cuddles for you two!
❤️❤️❤️
Hope you had a fun day on your 19th Birthday Bengie Happy Birthday Gorgeous 🩷
how many adventures have you been on! If only you could talk and write as your wonderful tales would be read by many 😸
Have an awesome day to remember xxxx
Thanks Mick & Lyn! Lots of adventures which started on your boat Medina when I was 3 months old! 🥰 🐈
Happy Birthday
Isn’t she just an amazing cat and story teller, writing all those blogs. I wish our cat was that clever. It must mean that it’s about 19 years since we met anchored behind Waterhouse Island
Yes, a 3 months old kitten then! I think we first met in Grassy Harbour. We were in Medina and met up again in Devonport on that same trip. She climbed onto Futura with your kids!
The sailing she has done in that time is amazing
A very well travelled ship’s cat!
COMMENT RECEIVED FROM LINDY:
Wow Bengie
Belated happy birthday purrs & loudest birthday song meows from me. My humans send many pats & behind ear scratches & apologise for the delayed best wishes & want me to explain that it takes a little time for my messages to reach you from my abode up in Terry Hills.
My, what adventures you are having on Anui. So pleased to hear she is nearly out of boat hospital & I must say you are all looking very spritely & wish you the best winds, warm weather & amazing times in your upcoming trip south. All the best my dear Bengie, from one Bengal gal to another Your friend, Ella Bleu xxX 😺
Ella Bleu! Really nice to get your birthday wishes. It has been ages since I last saw you in the flesh. Hope you are having fun too! Bengie. 🐾