Hi everyone, Bandit Monkey Brown here.

I’ve officially been living with Todd and Monica for about a month now, and from what I understand I had some very big paws to fill. A lot of you knew and loved Otis, and I hear he was a pretty legendary guy.

I’m doing my best.

So far I’ve been working very hard at my main responsibilities: being cute, causing a little mischief, giving smooshes, and making sure Todd and Monica smile as much as possible. The humans say it’s been a tough start to the year for them with the loss of Rhoda and then Otis not long after. But I think they’re doing okay… especially when I sit on their feet or fall asleep next to them. For those of you asking about my progress: I’m now pushing 25 pounds, which Todd says is about one-third of a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano. Apparently that’s how they measure things around here.

I’ve also been told that many of you have been sending love, gifts, and support. The humans say thank you. I say thank you too… especially if any of those gifts involve treats. They also keep telling me I’m a gift from Rhoda and Otis. I’m not exactly sure how that works, but I’ll do my best to live up to it.

Good news though — I’ve recently been promoted and will now be writing my very own column in the 109 newsletter, where I’ll be sharing important updates about life, cheese, and other things I discover while supervising the humans.

So if you see me around the shop, please say hello. I accept belly rubs, ear scratches, and compliments about how handsome I am.

And remember — if you need a friendly face, a puppy smoosh, or a little cheese and wine therapy… it must be 109 time.

Bandit Monkey Brown

Assistant Cheesemonger / Director of Smooshes / Newsletter Columnist