The Cat

Alex, the cat, lives in the garage. He has a box, with a warm, cozy blanket, that works most of the time. On colder days the hood of a car that has just been running is good for warming toes. But some days even that doesn't do the trick.

And so...

He will park himself outside the kitchen door in hopes that it will open. He has learned that it opens quite frequently these days as dear ole Dad once again peers out to make sure that the garage doors are all securely closed and locked and the cars are residing in their proper places. As soon as the slightest crack appears, Alex will swiftly and silently bound into the kitchen, at times escaping the notice of dear ole Dad. However, he does not go unnoticed long by other members of the household and someone is soon yelling, "Who let the cat in again??!!" Dad quite innocently declares it wasn't him, while Mom scowls and Pauline tries to muffle the laughter bubbling up inside.

Now Ann, the cat lover, welcomes him with open arms as he leaps into her lap and purrs contentedly, revelling in the bit of extra attention.

After awhile he tires of that and wanders off to find a comfortable chair in the living room or if he's feeling naughty, he may try sharpening his claws on the furniture. Pauline, who is not a cat lover, takes a newspaper after him, which makes him very mad for he sorely hates to be disciplined. He then turns his attention (as in teeth and claws) to her leg and sends her off yowling and very mad, as well! She yells for Dad (who thinks cats do not belong in the house in the first place) to carry him out. He's had lots of practice and nearly has the technique perfected. This is how it goes.

And so...the house is once again peaceful and quiet, at least until Dad decides it's time for another "garage check"!