by Susan Ternyey, Sept 2026
James is named
for a favorite character,
and he is a character--
aren't we all?
Perhaps I should've called him Buddy,
as sometimes I do.
He is handsome, gentle, loving, and friendly.
But the other day
he brought in a bird
he had kilt.
Nor does he like to share me
or our domicile--
tho' he and my sister's 2 dogs
have learnt to tolerate each other,
if they are not surprised.
When we installed a friend for him,
James considered Thom Cat not a friend.
Thom's residence here had to end.
James sits on my papers,
between me and my screens,
gently bites my phone to hint
it's his turn for attention.
At first he was content
to watch the world from a window.
But soon began to slip out
when I couldn't stop him,
or meowed loudly to be let out or in.
Now with his own private door
he and I are both pleased
he can go out or in as he pleases.
That's a boon for both of us.
He has his favorite
outdoor napping spots:
the bistro set,
the backyard cushioned bench,
the cool undergrowth,
or warm kitty quarters
set out for him.
At night he sleeps in my quarters
until my flopping and tossing
makes it too uncomfortable.
He comes back later
to see if I'm settled,
to get attention,
or to get a snack,
ever with hoping hints of a lickable treat
(he knows right where they are kept, bedside).
I spoilt him during the holidays
with poultry and tuna.
Now his day begins with tuna,
then poultry or meat
I cook for him,
and ever on hand
are the canned gravy food
and dry food he likes.
He doesn't like dry
tuna, poultry, meat, or gravy food--
I've taken to feeding him less
more often.
Dry treats follow chicken chores,
he knows the routine.
I think he comes to remind me
when it's time to collect the eggs
in the evening.
He feels insecure if I'm gone long,
seeks attentive reassurances.
Sometimes he follows or seeks me
up or down the street,
such as at my daughter's house.
Or waits for me at the drive or door.
When my daughter gifted me
a cruise with her,
I was just as worried, missing him.
We have a pretty good life,
James and I.
My daughter has entrusted us
to each other,
makes our partnership possible,
and I think hopes our companionship
improves & lengthens both our days.
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