I seem to have a Companion Cat for the first time in my life; it’s unsettling but also great fun. I went out to do chores this morning, and Zip was waiting for me to come out in the barn and then waiting again for me to come outside when I went back in.

He is also pondering, jumping into the car. This might rattle me if he weren’t so independent. After a head pat or scratch, he vanishes into one of the gardens or enters the pasture. He has added the front yard to his territory. And I am blessed with a companion dog, also. Zip loves his freedom, but he also loves attention.

Thanks for all the good messages about my Zip album, which I’ll do regularly. There is something special about that cat; the camera picks it up.

He knows how to keep an eye on things and stay dry.

I had a rough day Thursday, brain-wise. I thought I was cruising along, but my brain had other ideas, as I had been warned it would occasionally do. I put some photos up and then lay down. I never got up until it was dark. He exudes character.

I’m not getting casual about my brain. When the brain is injured, so is the whole body. I got out this morning to say hi to Zip and check on my flowers. I feel good.

Maria has been dying to go to the Clark Museum in Provincetown to see the new exhibition of Edward Munch’s work (The “Scream.” I love the little work I’ve seen by Munch, and I want to go. I’m pushing for a trip there.

Maria thinks I might be too tired, but as I see it, I might as well be exhausted in a museum as sitting around the farmhouse wanted to go out.

Museums are her cathedral. They mean a lot to her and inspire her creativity.  If I tire, I’ll meditate on a bench or look at the art. It will also be nice for the two of us to get out. Sunday, we’re going to Vermont to pick up the Spring wool and sell the skeins and roving. She is tired from taking care of me, and I am tired of being sick—time for a change.

I’m throwing in some Mexican food to get Maria to agree; a great Mexican restaurant is nearby, and that is her favorite food. I think she’ll crack. I’ll bring the Leica, it’s great for dark museum shots. Maria deserves this, and I’d like it also.

During this healthcare season, I learned to trust and listen to Maria regarding health decisions about going out and eating the right food. She gets to decide things until I’m 100 percent better. She has proven herself smarter than me a thousand times; I don’t fight it anymore and find it liberating, not threatening.

I decided years ago to be around strong women and do what they say. My life is much better. Maria has seen me when I’m sick; I never have. I know I have to rest, but I also know I am getting better rapidly.

And I have been resting and am about to explode.

As the nurses tell me, I’m a good healer. Despite yesterday, which turned ugly, it feels better all the time. I have no doubt that I will be all better in a matter of days.

Rain flower, ready to burst.

I think Zip is getting the farm organized in the way he wants. He waits for me when I go outside, gets a pat or scratch, and then heads out on his many secret missions. I never imagined having a companion cat.

I’m not a big mum fan, but the options are getting limited, and this is a pretty sight. even in the rain.