I decided to change things up a bit today and talk about me, me, me. After all, if you’re reading this, you wanna know more about the person behind the blog, right? I thought so. I wasn’t initially sure the best way to do this without coming across like some vapid reality star, so after some deep thinking (aka talking with my cat, Max), I decided to let Max interview me. He was happy to play along, since he felt it was a bit rude that he wasn’t a part of A Mindful Migration and wanted to introduce himself to y’all anyway. Being the indulgent Cat Mama that I am, I agreed.
Hi ya, everyone! My name is Maximillian Emeril but you call me Max or Mighty Max or MaxE! I blog with Mama over at Eat Laugh Purr and I am HILARIOUS! I mean how many cat bloggers do you know? None! Mama asked me to help her out, which I agreed to do because I am awesome. And I want to make sure Santa Kitty Klaus knows what a well-behaved and helpful kitty I am. Just in case you’re reading this Santa Kitty Klaus, I feel real bad about any mischief I have caused this past year and would really like a pet birdie named Yum Yum.
Max Interviews his Mama
My Mama indulges my every whim, gives me plenty of pets, and doesn’t hold it against me when I get into mischief. Best. Mama. Ever.
Who is Your Favorite Cat?
Really? That’s the first question you want to ask me?
Yes. Please answer the question, Mama.
Sigh. You are, Max Man. You’re my favorite cat.
I knew it! I RULE!
You are also dangerously close to not getting any bedtime treats.
MEOW! Your next question is …
Why Did You Start A Mindful Migration?
When I looked back at my life, I felt somewhat meh about it. There were certainly accomplishments that I was very proud of achieving, but there was something missing. Eventually, I realized that I didn’t have a very strong sense of what I wanted from my life, nor did I live intentionally. It shames me to admit this, but I had a herd mentality.
Once I started putted the pieces together, including how to use my money in way that felt good versus filling empty holes with stuff, my life began to take shape. I’m still very much a work in progress, but what matters is that I’m doing the work to create the life I want for myself. Realizing this was a common problem for many, I wanted to share my story and help others become more intentional with their lives, including how they spent their money.
What Do You Want People to Learn about Money?
I want people to gain control over their money. I spent many years being afraid or intimidated of money, while also using it to keep up or impress others. I want to help people learn to respect money and spend mindfully, which doesn’t mean giving up the things they truly love. It’s learning what those things are and mindfully including them in your life. I still love shopping, shiny things, shoes, designer handbags, and I’m not giving those things up. But I also know those things don’t “complete” me and aren’t worth creating debt over too.
What Are Your Hobbies?
Besides catering to my cat’s every desire, I love to read. If I had the time, I could read a book a day. They are my best escape as they completely absorb my attention. I also love going to the movies and dining out with friends. I enjoy cooking but hate cleaning.
I particularly love how you cater to my every whim!
Who is Your Favorite Author?
Just one? I can’t narrow it down to one, but some of my favorites are JK Rowling, Kim Harrison, Jim Butcher, JD Robb, Kelley Armstrong, Stephen King and Patricia Briggs. There are books scattered all over the bedroom, which just makes me happy. Although I was initially hesitant to get a kindle, I’m a huge fan now because I was running out of space for all my books. 🙂 I’m always on the lookout for good books to read and welcome any suggestions.
What is Your Favorite Dish to Make?
My favorite dish to eat is chicken parmesan but I have not yet mastered making it. Therefore, my favorite dish to make is mashed potatoes. It’s a one-pot dish that is pure comfort food to me. I’d take a bowl of mashed potatoes over ice cream any day.
What Do You Do, Besides Take Care of Me?
I’ve always considered my imagination and creativity to be two of my biggest assets, and I’m blessed to be able to utilize those skill sets every day. Like many, I don’t have one title but do many different things from designing beautiful, modern websites to freelance writing to brand consulting to blog management and more. I love helping clients realize the potential of their business and make meaningful connections with their clients. You can learn more about my services, here.
You do spend a lot of time on the computer, which makes me want to spit up a hairball. You should be paying attention to me!
No work means no cat treats.
Shut. Up.
Can’t, because it is true.
Stop talking to me and get back to work, Mama! MaxE needs his cat treats!
What’s Your Biggest Dream?
To be able to write full-time as a blogger and author. I have received tremendous joy from reading and would love to pay it forward. When I open a book, it feels like either meeting new friends or visiting old ones and joining them on an epic adventure. It would be the greatest privilege to have my books and characters do the same.
What’s the 411 on Your Sister Site, Eat Laugh Purr?
The 411? You surprise and amaze me every day, MaxE. Eat Laugh Purr is home to delicious recipes and one sassy feline —
Am I that sassy feline, Mama?
Yes, although it is rude to interrupt me and to be fair, Emeril was the original, sassy feline.
He was also chronically constipated.
Sigh. Yes, he was.
Tell me more, Mama. Like, for example, does one really amazing kitty occasionally blog there?
Yes, on occasion, a really cool kitty does meow his deep thoughts, which mainly involve how awesome he is. Beyond the musings of one mischievous feline, you will also find plenty of yummy recipes like Buttermilk Pancakes, Beer Braised Sausage and Kraut and chocolate truffles. In 2016, I’m doing a little bit of re-calibrating and will also focus on mindful eating. I’ve been trying to lose weight forever, and every year I pledge this will be the year I do it. And every year I don’t. 2016 is gonna be my year, people!
What’s Your Biggest Regret?
Wow, I need to think about this for a moment. One of my biggest regrets is the many years I spent mindlessly and thought I was being financially responsible because I wasn’t living beyond my means. I unknowingly spent a lot of money on dumb stuff. I’d love to build a time machine, so I could go back and undo my mistakes.
What’s Your Favorite Inspirational Saying?
I have lots of favorite inspirational sayings. Right now, this is one that speaks to me.
Cool. I like it. I know my purpose in life is to be adorable!
Where Can I Follow You on Social Media?
Excellent question, Max! You’d almost think someone forced you to ask it.
You can follow me here:
Twitter | Pinterest | Bloglovin | RSS
You did force me! And if I knew how to type and write — I would have asked something more important, like — am I cooler than Garfield? The obvious answer is yes.
Is MaxE Getting a Pet Birdie for Christmas?
I’m pretty sure you’re getting a lump of coal for Christmas. I hate to break this to you, Mighty Max, but you’re kind of naughty.
You take that back or I will pee on your flip flops, nudge the picture of the most constipated cat off your desk and … never mind. I wouldn’t do those things because I am well-behaved, kind and good. I am the best feline EVER! Paw swear!
Now It’s Your Turn!
We want to learn more about you, dear reader! So tell us one or two or more things about yourself. If you’re a blogger, share your blog, or what your hobbies are, if you have any pets, your favorite book or anything you’re willing to share with everyone.
Tanya
This was such a fun way to get to know you. Your cat is hilarious! If my cat were to interview me, it’d be filled with indifference and maybe a little disgust. My cat is kind of a jerk.
I LOVE BOOKS!! I write about them pretty often so if you need any suggestions, you can visit my site (or we can be friends on Goodreads).
Max is a hoot and a Chief Mischief Maker. He likes to get into trouble, then laugh about it. He’s really lucky I love him! I have this absolute belief that all cats love me, even though I bear the scars to prove otherwise, so I would find your cat’s indifference to be a challenge!
I’ve been going through your site and writing down recommendations but I LOVE books too. It feels like I’m in a bit of a book rut, so I’m looking forward to reading some new authors.
I love when MaxE interviews you, Tanya! It cracks me up 🙂 I think 2016 is going to be “the year” for many of us! Cheers to dream accomplishing!!!
MaxE definitely have a very special personality! He’s pretty luck I adore him, especially since he has decided that he needs to be petted right now and keeps trying to walk over the keyboard. And a BIG YES to 2016 being our year, Mackenzie!