Laptop Guardian

Laptop Guardian – Photo: L. Weikel

Now and then we all encounter obstacles. Every once in a while, we run into unexpected snags to our most thoughtful plans or well-practiced habits.

This evening, my long-standing routine of writing my nightly 1111 Devotion post on my MacBook Air, a habit precipitated by my Dell laptop’s nervous breakdown shortly into the establishment of this Act of Power, was nearly entirely derailed by Cletus.

I first encountered Cletus the Laptop Guardian when I glanced across the room and focused my attention on my MacBook this evening. When I walked over to my writing machine with an eye toward crafting my post (and maybe even getting to bed at a half reasonable hour – an idea instantly THWARTED), I realized this was not a case of simply placing said portable computer into my lap.

No, I was going to have to face the Laptop Guardian.

He Looks Innocent Enough

At first glance, this evil trickster looks innocent enough. In fact, he almost appears to be downright cute. Possibly even cuddly.

Half a stretch here, a “come hither” extended paw there. Oh yes, he looks like he’s just snoozing near the laptop because, oh, I don’t know. It was warm? It whirred occasionally and he mistook it for a purr? I don’t honestly get the attraction.

I make my move, assuming I should have nothing to fear. He is a good kitty. Or so I tell myself, completely disregarding any and all experiences I’ve heretofore had with him.

Yikes! A faint merrow and a shift of position change the game.

Cletus the Guardian’s Stink Eye – Photo: L. Weikel

Nope. He immediately assumes lockdown position, swiftly morphing from innocent playful mode to full-on stink-eye. It’f obvious that f I even think about slipping that laptop out from under him, he will slice my hand as thoroughly as any guardian slays a dragon.

Hmm. There’s distinct tension in the air. I’m tired. I don’t feel like having to mess with this psycho cat. (“Good kitty” my behind.)

And then I follow his gaze and realize: I’m up to this task! I’ve got this.

Classic Bribery – or Bait and Switch?

Regardless, I know I need to be smooth and quick. Deftly removing my necklace of Christmas lights and palming them to maintain surprise, I approach Cletus again. This time, though, I dangle the little lights close to his fur, but carefully maintaining my distance. I don’t want him snagging them.

Score!

He’s distracted enough for me to swipe the laptop out from under him while he contemplates the dazzle of Christmas lights dancing enticingly on his fur.

I hope you guys realize the risk I have to shoulder sometimes just to get a post written every night. It’s a tough job, but…

Joyous Solstice!