We were enchanted with our new family members, memorized every cute thing that they did. It surprised us to find that, from the beginning, the two cats were very different. Missy began to explore her new surroundings immediately and vigorously; Archie was hesitant. He preferred under and behind. Missy had to be on top. Archie needed a moment to wake up; Missy had two speeds: pause and fast-forward.
Archie’s favorite game was “Grab-Missy’s-Tail-While-She-Is-Sleeping.” The first day we discouraged this. After that, we figured she was on her own. He also enjoyed pulling kitchen towels off the rack and sitting on them. This we permitted, although I stopped him when he tried it with the curtains. We had our own private floor show and were being richly entertained. Both cats would nap for long periods on any available lap and we felt the honor most keenly. And the person being so honored could make any request of the rest of us, because no one was allowed to disturb the cat!
But in spite of our enchantment, there was a grim reality. These cats did not know the House Rules. Specifically, “Thou shalt not claw the furniture.” Within the first three days, the family room began to resemble a war zone. The upholstered furniture was covered with sheets and towels which were laundered daily. The stereo and TV speakers were covered with aluminum foil. And every human went armed – with a squirt gun!
Archie learned very quickly that we were not kidding. But Missy had a defiant streak. She was on the receiving end of many reprimands and water shots. The name “Missy” became short for “Mischief.” I hoped eventually that we would not need theses precautions, that the kittens would learn and behave. But in the meantime, I mourned for the neat and tidy house I used to have.
Feeding them was also an experience. Being new to cats, we had purchased a double bowl, figuring to use one side for food and the other for water. But we found that whenever I put food down, both cats would com running, but there was not room for both to eat. As we watched, Archie would stand aside and let Missy go first. I was amazed at his manners, but concerned that he would not get his share. I would run to get a separate dish for him. We finally broke down and bought another bowl for water and put food in both sides of the double dish. Now both cats could eat at once.
The whole thing still had an air of unreality about it. Although our lives revolved around the kittens, it did not seem possible that they were really ours. The kittens had no such problem, though. The one absolute fact was that we had been well and truly adopted.
At times of great good fortune sometimes I cannot believe
The blessings that are poured on me, the favors I receive.
I wonder if they’re prompted by some merit found in me,
And if by fault they could all be withdrawn as easily.
But to my gracious Father all my joyful thanks I lift:
The fact is every blessing is an undeserved gift.