It was very hot yesterday, but Zip showed up for his afternoon meeting with me. We sat together and looked out over the fields and woods adjoining the farm. I imagined we were looking for different things, but Zip seemed happy and comfortable sitting in my lab and on my shoulder, his favorite place.
Like so many animals – Rose, Simon, Red, Zinnia, Izzy, Lenore – have been since I moved to the country, Zip is my pal. He has enriched my life, Maria’s, and our life together on the farm. He is an inspiration to me.
He loves attention, and he loves us, so he is often dancing around to get our attention. He also loves to eat and kill chipmunks, mice, and rats.
He also loves to hang out with me when I am writing on the porch, meditating, or taking pictures. He’s become a pal; we understand one another. And, not least, he loves having his picture taken.
He has our love and the attention of many other people. We thought we were getting a barn cat; we got that and a lot more.
You have a perfect cat, very handsome with a big personality. Lucky you, lucky Zip!
You have the perfect cat, handsome and with a big personality! Lucky you. Lucky Zip.
I always chuckle t your comment that Zip needs an agent. He has one named Jon Katz. Thanks for sharing him.
Well, agents get big checks all I can give him is a warm and safe place to sleep and lots of love..
Jon, I have always loved your writing, and your obvious skill at sharing a compelling story. Over the years I have learned a great deal from your journeys with animals, friends, readers, Maria and the world around you. Thank you very much. Zip is a fine example of a cat, and a friend. What a joy.
He is a joy, the perfect words..thanks Maggie…
I know you aren’t writing books anymore but it’s too bad because if any cat deserved a book, it’s Zip!
Yes, true, my blog is my book and his too, I suppose..
Yes, true; my blog is my book, and his too, I suppose.
Zip is more than just a barn cat. Love all the photos.
Dear Jon,
I have been reading your blog for several years now. I happen to be in Greenwich, just down the road, staying with a friend. I wonder if you would be willing to allow us to visit your farm in person. We will be here til Thursday. Thanks very much for your blog, I do enjoy it.
Barbara Rodgers from San Diego.
Barbara, I appreciate your interest, but we can’t deal with visitors. Those are work days for us, and newcomers often disturb the animals. As you probably know, we are both workaholics and take great care to protect our work and privacy. I’m sure you understand that it would be a continuous and difficult interruption if we permitted visitors, especially in the summer. I am sorry, and thanks for thinking of us. The sheep get very nervous, and the donkeys can get protective of them. The dogs bark and bark; you probably know all this.
Jon,
No worries, I figured as much, it was a long shot. We did go to the farmers market this morning, and I guess just missed you, the goat soap lady told us. Anyway, such a delight to be driving on the beautiful roads thru the Revolutionary towns, and to pass by the places you mention in the blog!
BR
Thanks for understanding Barbara have great trip.
Great photo! All your animals are well loved. Thought you might enjoy this-a super smart Border Collie-
https://www.reddit.com/r/MadeMeSmile/comments/1dxh39n/the_husky_has_no_care_in_the_world_living_on_pure/
I just received my beautiful quilt from Maria with Zip as the main character. I will treasure it, and your stories of Zip always. He is a gorgeous cat and so photogenic.
Thanks Susan so glad you liked Maria will be very happy.