I woke up around 9:15 this morning and immediately had to navigate an obstacle course of cat toys just to make it down the hall.
A quick peek into the office revealed five or six cat beds and — you guessed it — even more toys. No husband, no cats… just a room clearly prepared for them at all times.
I continued down the hall to the kitchen, where all five cats were already up and roaming. Some were on the table, some on the floor, all of them involved.
Gabby, in particular, was very vocal — squeaking, squawking, and demanding new toys, despite the bazillion already scattered everywhere. Clearly, the existing selection was unacceptable.
This led to my husband being cornered at the sacred cabinet where the new toys are hidden. From it emerged a small fishy cat toy, which was promptly presented to Miss Gabby. And just like that, the games were on.
Gabby took off running through the house, fishy in tow, bouncing onto the cat tree, sprinting down the hall, tossing it in the air, and announcing her victory with enthusiastic meows. The other cats gathered to observe this impressive display of agility and ridiculousness, serving as a very judgmental audience.
It was silly, loud, and completely joyful — one of those moments that reminds me how much life, laughter, and entertainment five cats can pack into an ordinary morning.