Mom got me all excited about taking a field trip tonight.  She put my blankie in the box I like to play in and she even put a toy in there.  Then she put me in there!  Next thing I know I’m in the car and we’re going somewhere.

When she finally let me out of my box, I knew I was in trouble.

I found a chair to hide behind where nobody could see me.  If you notice, there’s a treat on the floor.  The doctor lady tried to bribe me with a stupid treat but I didn’t fall for it.

Then the doctor lady came to talk to me and she was being all nice and friendly.

I even had to do a squishy face for them!

I tried to distract them so they wouldn’t see how much I weighed.  Here I am thinking really light.  It didn’t work.  Would you believe I weigh 12 pounds!!!  The doctor lady said I could lose a little weight.  How rude!

Maybe I should run away from home.  I can’t believe that doctor lady said I should lose weight!  Only Hemingway needs to lose weight.  Not me!!!

Mom!  I don’t like your idea of a field trip at all.  Don’t ever try to pull that on me again.  Now let me eat and leave me alone.

From the Mom:  Tonight Steinbeck made more noise than he ever has.  Usually at home he just has this quiet little squeak.  Now I know that he’s been hiding a very loud voice.  Oh boy can he sing the song of his people at the top of his lungs!!!  He’s not Mr. Mellow Cat at the doctor’s house like Hemingway is, but they all love him there ‘cuz he’s so soft and fluffy.  He did great with his shots and his nail trim and I was very proud of him.  He was pronounced fit and healthy so he doesn’t have to go back for a year.