A mysterious fog has been gently wafting through the neighborhood for the past few days. Amidst this ethereal mist, the adventurous ones of the Herd have ventured outside, sensing the warmth that has finally graced their world. Ellie Mae, the cat-dog, has found solace in the cozy catio, a haven where the temperature hovers around a comfortable 50 degrees, in stark contrast to the chilly 37 degrees outside.

This winter season has been remarkably mild, with only a few fleeting days where temperatures dipped below zero and a mere sprinkling of snow. During those polar chills, the Herd retreated into a state of hibernation, seeking refuge from the harsh outdoor conditions.

As the fog continues to dance through the air, the felines cautiously emerge from the warm catio, their whiskers twitching with curiosity. They cautiously explore the familiar surroundings, their paws sinking into the soft snow or slush that is slowly melting. The air carries a crispness that invigorates their senses, and they eagerly run out on the patio, scratch and climb the tree, and reach higher above on the roof.

In the meantime, I was immersed in my yearly ritual of conducting a comprehensive financial and well-being audit. It was a meticulous task that required utmost concentration and precision. Little did I anticipate that my feline companions would decide to add an extra layer of challenge to the process. I found solace in a refreshing morning break spent outdoors with my feline companions as I was diving deeper and deeper into the crazy world of money and stuff. The financial audit serves as a valuable tool to uncover patterns of mindless spending and streamline my life by reducing clutter.

While enjoying the company of my beloved Herd, I’ve discovered valuable financial insights. Their playful antics and boundless energy serve as a reminder to embrace life’s uncertainties and find joy in everyday moments. Ellie Mae,the cat-dog in particular, has taught me the importance of pursuing her happiness through outdoor activities, such as chasing a frisbee in the snow and reveling in the simple pleasure of rolling in the melting snow and for me to relax and watch her cherished moments.

In regard to my overall well-being, I have been increasingly concerned about the strain I have been experiencing in my shoulders for the past year. As the primary caretaker of Wolfie the Wobbly, I often carry him in a wrap-around or have him perched on my shoulders. Harvey frequently jumps on my shoulders for hugs or treats. They may have taken a toll on my shoulders, causing stiffness and pain.

Recognizing the need to address this issue, I have been actively exploring various solutions. As someone who grew up in tropical climates where swimming was a natural and enjoyable part of life, I have deeply missed this activity since moving to Montana, where the water is frigid for most of the year, with the exception of sporadic hot springs.

Considering my desire to alleviate the discomfort in my shoulders and rekindle my love for swimming, I have decided to incorporate lap swimming into my weekly routine at a local community pool. While mornings are precious and essential for me and my feline companions, I believe that adding swimming to my schedule will not only provide a much-needed workout but also contribute to my physical and mental well-being. 

Although walking, hiking, and biking have been part of my regular activities, they have not provided significant relief for my shoulder pain. Returning to the warm water felt incredibly soothing, and while I adjust to the strong smell and taste of chlorine, I am committed to making regular visits to the pool and hot tub a part of my self-care routine.

So, my winters are short and erratic. January is when I go all Sherlock Holmes on my finances and personal life, making sure everything’s A-okay before spring rolls around. And speaking of spring, it’s like Christmas morning every day for my furry friends. They can’t wait to bolt outside each morning, sniffing all the scents and soaking up that fresh air. This is my sanctuary, my haven of peace and productivity. With my mug of coffee as a faithful companion, I embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and self-expression. It’s a space where dreams are nurtured, and aspirations take flight. 

While I’ve sadly lost three cats since April, downsizing my feline family was never my intention. Recently, I adopted Kenji, a large diabetic cat, from AniMeal’s Gaia’s Landing program. She spends most of her days in a private suite near a sunny window and a tank of swimming pond fish. She is regularly monitored her glucose levels and maintains a food-managed diet. Currently, she doesn’t require insulin. I leave the entryway gate open to allow her and other cats to roam freely. However, Kenji will likely need a significant adjustment period, as she hisses at any cat that approaches her. The Herd acknowledges her existence without any reservations.

 Last night, a dear family friend sent a photo to my email that made me burst into laughter. The resemblance between the depicted scene and my own feeding time was simply uncanny. Both of us are tall and blessed with blondish hair, surrounded by a bevy of cats that eagerly await our every move.

However, despite these similarities, there are also several notable differences. For instance, my feeding station is situated in the dining room, while the cat lover appears to be in the kitchen. I do not possess a “chit box” in my kitchen, which makes it considerably smaller than hers. Moreover, she seems to have a much larger Herd than mine. 

If we were to ever cross paths, I have no doubt that we would have countless stories and experiences to share. Our mutual love for cats and the striking similarities in our feeding routines would provide ample fodder for hours of lively conversation.

It’s time for a delightful evening of wining and dining in the company of my beloved felines. Here’s to all the fabulous cat herders out there!