Things I've Learned from my Cat

It's hard to believe that FrodoJoseKitty, the stray cat who appeared at our back door a week before Christmas, has now been with us for almost three months.  He had many things to learn about living in a house when he first came to us, but lately I feel as if I'm the one who's learning from him.

The Cat on Time Management:

No matter how busy you are, take time to sniff every flower.   Just don't eat them or the crazy lady with the spray bottle will find you.

There's always time for a nap.  Even something as important as pulling all of the plastic grocery bags out of their storage spot can wait if it means a chance to nap in the warm sunshine.

The Cat on Opportunities:

Never ignore an open door.  You don't know when you'll have the opportunity again so leap while you have the chance.  Unless it's into a tub full of water; that never ends well.

Every day is an adventure.  Adventures in the pantry, adventures in the basement, adventures in the attic... there's always something new to discover!

The Cat on Relationships:  

Nothing unites like an early morning bird/squirrel hunt through the sliding glass door.  Even if you're as different from one another as a dog and a cat, you can always find common ground with someone else. 

Sometimes it's worth it to allow the dog to sniff your backside.   Especially if it means you can sneak a morsel or two of the dog's food while she's otherwise, um, engaged. 

The Cat on Not Taking Things Personally:

Just because others don't like it doesn't mean it isn't wonderful.  To them, it's just a dead stink bug, but to you, it's a victory.  Even if others don't always appreciate your gifts, that's no reason to not feel proud of yourself for offering them.

Never go to bed angry.  Although you were scolded for walking on the stove or stealing a drink of milk from someone's glass, you can always make up for it later with a purr and a cuddle.  No one can resist a warm kitty in the lap unless, of course, that kitty's just finished eating tuna fish.

The Cat on Contentment: 

All you really need are the basics. Nothing is more important than food, water, and a warm, dry place to live.  Kitty treats and a nice neck massage every now and then don't hurt either.

Home is where your people are.  Whether of the two-legged or four-legged variety, nothing says "home" more than the folks you share your space with.  Be sure to show your love for them in some way other than tearing up their shoelaces.

Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a lot to do today.  There are birds to watch, naps to take, flowers to smell, and a very wise cat to cuddle.