Recipe for a Blissful Nap

Toby didn't make it to the bed before he crashed

                Looking ahead at the seven-day forecast I see several open-window days.  When I was a kid, I judged the quality of the spring weather by the opportunity to go barefoot.  Now I rate a spring day highly if the temperature is mild enough to open the windows and the breeze gentle enough to soothe the soul.

                An open window, preferably with a soft wind blowing through it, is essential for the blissful kind of nap I dream of all winter long.  What makes spring naps superior to those of other seasons is that they usually follow mornings of hard work getting the yard back into shape.  I love the energy spring weather gives me—enough to break out of winter hibernation and tackle the world head-on.  It feels good to loosen up the muscles with the help of the sun’s warmth soaking through my jacket.  After a few hours, exhaustion calls me to rest.

                The cats operate on the same principle:  long hours exploring outdoors + a soft bed in front of the window = unconsciousness.  Ever since my daughter gave up naps at age three, I’ve had a very deep appreciation for afternoon sleep and am thankful the cats agree.  For some reason (I’m certainly not complaining) they are willing to share the bed during the day, unlike at night when they hog my side.  If you need me for anything, don’t call between 2:00 and 3:00—I’ll be busy.

Biff and Finnegan napping together