Henry

I grew up on a farm, and one of the things I did was attempt to tame wild cats.  We had plenty of them, and I would sit for long periods of time in the hay shed and meow or simply be quiet.  Most of the time I was successful in being able to tame those cats. 
Cats have always been a part of my life...from farm cats to house cats.  Our last house cat died about three years ago so my life has been catless since that time.  I had made a decision not to get another cat for many reasons....they live a LONG time, not a fan of litter boxes, cat hair gets tiresome, etc.
Well, awhile ago this scrawny gray cat started hanging around the area.  He was very skittish and fearful so you would only see him on rare occasions.  About three weeks ago, I noticed he was around more often so I decided to start setting out food and water.  I also noticed that he seemed to have some sort of respiratory infection so maybe a little food would help so his energy would not have to be used for hunting.  Because I am not working and have extra time, I used my old skills of meowing as well as being quiet and patient.

We went on vacation for a week so plenty of food and water was set out, and with his condition, I assumed maybe he wouldn't be around when we returned.
Well, guess what!  He was around, and just a few days after we returned I was able to pet him.  The next day he was rubbing all over me and purring.  Today I spent some time brushing his coat.  So it appears that a new cat has entered my life and time will tell whether it becomes a house cat or simply a backyard pet.  By the way, I also got close enough to confirm it is a Henry and not a Henrietta.  Also, it is not a surprise that he is named after Henry David Thoreau.

Thought for the day:  a cat improves the garden wall in sunshine, and the hearth in foul weather.  Judith Merkle Riley