Minnie and Flo have gotten into the farmhouse at night, but we are not yielding on the daytime. Sometimes what people think is really good for animals is actually really good for people. Barn cats that are given some food and health care – shots, worming –  are the healthiest animals anywhere,  most house cats are not nearly as fit, do not live nearly as long.

It feels good to let the cats in the house in sub-zero weather and it’s a good thing to do, but we think it’s important that they continue their loves outside. So this morning, in the snow and cold, they get booted out for the day, as they will get booted out every day except in extraordinary weather. They need to be active, find some of their own food and hunt as cats are meant to do. I know this is heresy in some parts of the animal world, but it is a matter of faith for me. Minnie hunting again, finding mice, rats and moles. Good for her, good for us.

I don’t think the issue is whether or not I have a hard or squish heart or cold or soft soul, the issue is what’s good for the animals, not just what makes me feel good. Flo went out this morning and found a good spot in the woodshed to watch the dwindling storm and Minnie went out to sit with her pal Red, she loves to hang around with him, he doesn’t seem to mind. They both had a good time watching the storm.

Minnie is moving about very well, her good leg is getting stronger, she is running fast and hopping up and down at things. It is neat to see these two together.