quiet

​

Our sweet basement cat is slowly making her way back into the open after a houseful of company over the holiday weekend. The excitement, laughter, and constant noise from the little ones sent her retreating behind the water heater, her favorite safe space, where she stayed tucked away for days.

She did venture out briefly when Tim was downstairs holding the baby, but the moment the baby squealed with delight at the sight of the cat, she disappeared in a flash. Poor thing wasn't taking any chances.

I'm not sure when she'll be ready to welcome visitors, but I'd guess children won't be meeting her anytime soon. They're simply too loud, too energetic, and far too unpredictable for a cat that's still learning to trust the world around her.

As much as we love having family and friends visit, both Tim and I have come to appreciate our quiet little household almost as much as the cat does. It's amazing how quickly you settle into a daily rhythm and how comforting that routine becomes. After a busy holiday weekend, we're all enjoying the return of a little peace and quiet.

Now all I need is a day at home with no company and nowhere to be, just to get the house back into shape. The dishes are piled in the sink for me to admire, without the time to tackle them yet.... All in good time.

Tuesday had me jumping right back into my regular routine without so much as a day to recharge. Between a full day and teaching Mahjong all evening, I barely had a minute at home except to say a quick hello to the cat, give her a few treats, and admire the mountain of dishes that would simply have to wait another day. I've decided that after future weekends filled with company, I really need to build in a reset day before diving back into the weekly grind. Sometimes a quiet day at home is exactly what's needed to recharge both the house and the people living in it.

Lately, I've also found myself wondering whether our shy girl would enjoy having another cat around someday. Would another feline become a comforting companion, or would she see it as an unwelcome intruder? Everything I've read suggests giving her at least a full year to settle into her new life before introducing another cat, which certainly makes sense after everything she's been through.

Still, I can't help but think she might enjoy having a friend who speaks her language. Then again, perhaps she's perfectly content being queen of a quiet house with just Tim and me. Time, and probably a little more reading, will tell. Until then, we'll let her continue building confidence one small step at a time, at her own pace.

"Sometimes the smallest steps in the right direction end up being the biggest steps of your life." ~ Naeem Callaway