The Coolest Cat In The House

“I think that I want to write about the coolest cat in our house,” I told my husband. He looked from his desk and started to blush. “You really don’t need to do that,” he began. “I’m just being myself.” “No, not you, dear, although you are terribly wonderful,” I explained. “I’m going to write about our actual cat.” My husband appeared only momentarily shaken.

“Of course,” he muttered. “But is there really much to say about our fairly lazy domesticated feline?” I pondered his question while moving to my computer. “Absolutely,” I called over my shoulder. “She is the model of the very best way to handle a pandemic in a heatwave!” With a shrug of his shoulders, my beloved spouse started his third Zoom call of the day and caught my eye.

“I’m interesting too,” he offered. “Of course, you are,” I soothed in return.

His words were still on my mind as started to blog. My husband is wonderfully delightful - fascinating, really – but humans, regardless of their charming qualities, are universally struggling with the whole quarantine era in which we live. My cat, on the other hand, has never been better.

We adopted our cat from the animal shelter at the same time as we found our dog (sort of a two-for-one deal). Both animals got along well, and they have each enjoyed their “next best life” with us. The dog excels at activities like helping us exercise and barking at strangers. His contributions are obvious. The cat has more subtle traits, but ones that are equally important.

My lovely feline is an expert at staying comfortable. No humid time outside for her, she merely stays in the air conditioning and maintains a serene attitude. I’m wondering if my coping skills during the pandemic would also improve if I were to sweat less.

Regular feeding is also on the routine schedule for my cat. She has trained us well and my husband and I do not disappoint. Maybe I should have a similar attitude of gratitude for the food that regularly covers my plate during these worrisome days.

Finally, my Garfield-looking friend spends at least a part of her evening in my lap. She is always thrilled by the attention from family. Her contented purring is a reminder for me to find greater joy from my loved ones.

Tonight, I am going to imitate the ways of my favorite tabby. My plan is to have a simple, comfortable dinner followed by happy time with the people of my household. After all, if I can mimic my cat’s wonderful life, then I just might get through these days of global uncertainty in peace.