Short and Sweet – Day 1101

“Petting needs to commence,” says Cletus – Photo: L. Weikel

Short and Sweet

Since last night’s missive was dramatically longer than my usual posts, I’m thinking you guys might enjoy something short and sweet tonight. That is a rather self-serving cop-out, of course. I’m only suggesting I write a shorter post because I’m flailing about for something interesting to write about.

I must be getting old. Let me rephrase that, since none of us are getting any younger. Perhaps a better observation is: I’m definitely noticing the cold – and that’s making me feel old(er). It’s always been tougher to stick to the discipline of walking every night when late fall and winter approach. I’d say “this year is no exception,” except it is. I feel colder this year. Already. And I honestly think it’s me – not a case of the temperature being unseasonably cold.

Karl and I have had to cajole (or is it goad?) each other to move our bones the last few days. The worst part about the loss of Daylight Savings Time is that the sun sets way too early now. The good news is that we’ve actually managed to log some miles together for the first time in quite a while.

Venus in the cold November sky – Photo: L. Weikel

Quick Puppy Update

And why not? If I’m resorting to commenting about walks and weather, I might as well give you an update on the pups. They’re doing great.

At our vet appointment last week (for their 3rd set of shots), we discovered they’ve more than doubled in weight since we brought them home. They both managed to gain over three pounds each in the last month!

Pacha and Brutus, although initially tending to engage in some (literal) foot-dragging at the outset of every walk, are now becoming remarkably enthusiastic walking companions. I say that they’re doing great on our walks, and it is true, but it’s also true that the pups look at us with only thinly-veiled, “This is puppy abuse,” expressions when I start suiting them up. I imagine we’ll have a full-on puppy strike when the snow falls.

Tonight was just a lazy, snuggly night. I’m off my soapbox. For now.

Brutus and Pacha snoozing on Dad – Photo: L. Weikel

(T-10)

Snuggle Bunnies – Day 915

Spartacus and Tigger – Photo: L. Weikel

Snuggle Bunnies

I know I’m not divulging anything new if I clue you in to the fact that these two creatures are the best snuggle bunnies ever. And I’m not talking about snuggling with each other, either (like they’re doing in this photo)!

No, Spartacus and Tigger are my stalwart companions, day and night.

My day invariably begins with Spartacus jumping into bed with me, burrowing under the covers, and literally pressing his back into the small of mine, perfectly aligning his body along my spinal column. He’s slept with us all night, mind you. But he usually gets up early with Karl, and upon his return, stakes out his favorite territory – my back.

Meanwhile, like clockwork, Tigger trots into our bedroom as soon as he hears me stir. He mrrrows at me (every single morning!), seemingly asking for permission to approach (or perhaps just saying good morning), and ensconces himself on the other side of my body. He, too, snuggles up and conforms his body to mine, except he’s up against my front, with my hand buried into the fur of his tummy. I can’t imagine any of the other cats I’ve loved in my life putting up with, much less seeking out, such assertive cuddling!

I have to admit, some days it’s almost impossible to drag myself out from under the covers.

Nighttime Ritual Too

But just as they protect me, front and back, each morning, they also tag team me at night as well. It’s adorable, really, to witness their routine.

Every night, Spartacus expectantly stares at Karl when he starts falling asleep on the couch. He then escorts Karl upstairs, luring him with the prospect of some of the same snuggles Karl sees me receiving in the morning. Tigger is almost always already upstairs on our bed by that time.

After about half an hour (believing Karl’s asleep?), Spart returns downstairs, jumps up beside me on the couch and promptly falls asleep. He keeps me company while I write. Tigger, meanwhile, comes downstairs for a quick drink when he hears me closing my laptop, but is then eager to return to the dreamtime.

I’m guessing you’re all acutely aware of how tired I am tonight. My snuggle bunnies are calling.

Just another benefit of that unconditional love I wrote about yesterday, I guess.

(T-196)