What can make my children, especially the girls, suddenly more then eager to walk the dog? A cat, but of course.
I was wondering why they where enjoying the walks and taking so much longer then normal. At first I assumed the little bit of spring that is peeking through was providing enough puddles and ice to entertain them and entice them. Turns out they had made friends with a neighbour’s cat.
Jazz shows up around three each day and the kids are out walking Riddick at about this time too. My eldest took it upon herself to win the pussy cat over and become friends. Riddick and Jazz had a bit of a run in the first visit (he getting a good nose smashing) so the kids smartened up and would take turns petting the kitty while the other kept the dog separated and in check. Over the course of a few weeks of visiting the pets have learned to get along and the kids have become very agreeable about the daily walking.
Now it is common for the oldest to approach me about walks, right around the time they expect Jazz to be waiting for a visit. And Jazz seems to be waiting for them very regularly. Everyone gets some attention and affection.
My girls are particularly smitten with cats, and I remember being the same at their age. It is hard to not be drawn in by a friendly neighbourhood kitty. I get great pleasure, not only from getting a break from the arguing with them about getting the walk done, but from knowing they are feeling comfortable in their neighbourhood; getting to know and care about the locals I know the neighbours like my kids too, we have had many a neighbour ask us if we are the parents of the kids with the little spotted dog. When we respond in the positive they always have positive to return, about how responsible and kind our kids seem. This Mama appreciated their kind words, while knowing my kids still have their naughty moments no matter how good, but I truly feel like they are delightful little works in progress!
Always Lady Mac an Rothaich
TTFN
