In 1978, Meda and I moved with our two cats from 9th Avenue in Kaimuki to townhouse in Tropic Gardens, mauka of Kahala Mall.

Yes, there really was a time when we had only two cats. Can you believe it?

The first was adopted from the pet store at Ala Moana Center soon after our arrival back in Hawaii in August 1969 to enter graduate school at UH. The second was rescued in a rain storm outside the old Circle Jade Apartments on 9th Avenue (which later were converted to condominiums).

Both were inside cats, having grown up in an apartment, and never minded it, although they were riveted on watching the outside world. We’re still hoping to get our current generation back to feeling that way.

At the time this was taken, both appear fat and happy, leading me to date it around 1980.

We think the photo was taken by our friend and neighbor, Ric Sutter, photographer and anthropologist.

For another look at these great cats, check out our 1976 self-portraits.