Photo de jour


Look what Odin found. He may have a new career as a truffle hound. Since this is very first spring, there are mysterious new smells, textures and places to explore, like these...




He had to put his nose into everything but that's how cats learn. He's learned to be afraid of those large metal animals rumbling down the road, to not climb trees any higher than my height and respond to commands of stay. There were some tight spots when his very long leash entangles, but he's accepted his harness and leaps into it the moment I take it out. It's  a balancing act allowing exploration while keeping him safe. Being a water baby, he went insane with kitty giddiness at the small stream. The muddy paws were worth it.



Domino is unusually tolerant of Odin and joins us on our walks. Sometimes he leads the way and sometimes Odin leads but being young and silly thought he could be king of the castle. Live and learn. The setting sun cast a beautfiul glow and I'm happy to report Domino is back to normal after a bad scare by a raccoon or?  I've never seen him so spooked. Being a senior feral, he's still fast, but I question if he could escape up a tree if a coyote chased him.



Gris Gris, the gray ghost, a wise old soul, stays close to the house and trots inside on command. Still somewhat feral, he's made a quantum leap towards trust. He sleeps near me but not touching. He sits nearby if he wants something (food) and then he'll rub up against me, tolerating some stroking and maybe let me pick him up. The skittishness is subsiding and his bony frame has finally gained a pound. He's ethereal and Zen-like with the ability to be invisible versus the in your face loudness of Merlin or Odin. Best of all, he and Merlin are snuggle pals who whisper sweet nothings. Gris Gris rarely purrs but he's communicated his gratitude at his good fortune in the proud manner that cats do with a glance and swish of his tail.



Merlin is happier than I've seen him in years. The winter he hates is over. Our garden strolls have resumed. He has three fur friends of all stripes and temperaments and best of all, he's back sleeping in my arms most of the night.  He kindly granted me the opportunity (well, 30 seconds and let's get it over with lady) for a new portrait.



Older cats rock. Things have changed. With better nutrition and vet care, cat are living longer, often well into their twenties. They make fabulous pets and shelters are full of them because most people want young ones or kittens. More cute reasons why older is better.