Why hello there! I do hope all is well with you and yours. Life here at Wilson College is as lovely as ever. My guests have finally begun removing those facemasks on campus, and as I suspected, they’re nothing but smiles when they see me. The weather in Chambersburg is finally warm, but can you believe we had snow here in April? How entirely unnecessary.

Have you heard the big news? Through my professional organization, Cats Advising, Training, Nurturing, and Informing Presidents (CATNIP), I’ve been informed that we’ve had a new member join our ranks! Yes, I’m told that one Ms. Willow Biden has assumed her role as presidential cat in the White House. And better still, Ms. Willow is a native Pennsylvanian! How simply delightful!

Now, I myself have not had the privilege of visiting this White House, but surely it can’t compare to the majesty that is Sharpe House? Still, this White House seems to have a long history of presidential cats running their organization, including a Mr. Socks Clinton and a Ms. India Bush. Surprisingly, a number of dogs have also attempted to run the White House. Can you just imagine the chaos? How absurd.

Allow me to send warm, heartfelt greetings from Sharpe House to you, Ms. Willow, and to welcome you into your role. Being a presidential cat is an enormous privilege but also a huge responsibility. Believe me, I know. To help ease your transition into your position, I’d like to share with you my top three tips for a presidential cat:

1. You are the backbone of your organization. Without you, your president would not accomplish anything. Indeed, there was a time, not too long ago, when my president would work from home, just so I could direct him. He would even video conference with his colleagues here at Wilson, so I could occasionally make an appearance and weigh in on matters. Remember, whatever organization your president runs, you are vital to its success.

2. You must be a gracious hostess. You will have visitors from across the globe who will be coming just to see you. Indeed, in my short time here at Wilson, I have hosted guests from nearly every continent, not to mention countless local Chambersburg dignitaries. Remember to be on your best behavior, be sure to greet everyone, and for those who get a little too familiar, a polite hiss will remind them of their place.

3. Take care of yourself. Being a presidential cat is hard work. You will be welcoming guests, hosting events, and running your organization, on top of maintaining the domestics of your White House. Surround yourself with support, and remember, when life gets tough, never underestimate the value of a good catnap.

Again, welcome to your role, Ms. Willow, and know that your White House is better with you in it. Perhaps someday we can share a saucer of milk here at Sharpe House. And to the rest of my readers, I do hope you’ve appreciated this glimpse into the often stressful, always rewarding, life of a presidential cat.

Until next time,