Off the Grid

There was a fierce windstorm today and the power went out when a tree crashed across the power lines. It was a cold day so I lit the wood stove, and by evening it became the center of our universe. Under other circumstances, the new area rug was a choice piece of real estate for the cats, with which they would play King-of-the-Rug over and over again, sometimes with great ferocity. As the cold crept in, however, some magical transformation occurred and they were able relinquish enough territory to make room for two fireside seats. It was touching to watch adversaries become friends. What a peaceful night we all had, with just the crackling of the fire.