For decades I owned a house on an acre of land. I always had "working cats" to keep the pest population down. The cats were outdoor independent creatures, happy to drink at the creek that ran through my property, satisfied with kibbles for their efforts. In 2012 my granddaughter, who I was raising, wanted a kitten for a pet. I really didn't want a pet, but how can you say no to a grandchild? We went to the pound and adopted a four-month-old who she named Belphegor. It took Bel about a week to decide that I was his human, rejecting my disappointed grandchild.
When I would arrive home from work Bel the cat who adopted me would always be waiting at the French door window impatiently expecting his dinner and acknowledgment. You can see him in the picture peering out in the lower left door.
I sold my house to downsize just two months after this picture was taken. Bel and I moved from the cold, damp, dreary Olympic Peninsula to the warm, dry Southwest. He wasn't all that thrilled about leaving his forest, but we are better for the change. I hope he keeps me company for a good long time.