The phone rings.

   Norman checks the Caller ID, picks up the receiver and says, "Ward's Castle... What's your hassle?"

   Of course, he knew who he was talking to... and it was all in fun.

   Well, we might not live in a castle, but we do have a king at our little kingdom here at Ward's Sward.  Here he is perched on his royal throne... 

   Yes, this neighborhood (aka "stray") cat has found a permanent place at our house... and in our hearts.  Our boys have been asking for a cat for quite some time, but things just weren't working out.  One cat that a cousin was giving away was mean-spirited.  Another kitten that a friend was going to give to us was killed by their dog.  We were beginning to think that it just wasn't in God's plans for us to have a cat.

   But, one day, this black cat just appeared... and stayed.  We asked around and the neighbors just said that he was a stray.  No one claimed him.

   With the weather getting colder, we put some old blankets out in the garage for him to sleep on and we leave the door open just enough for him to go in and out of.  Our youngest son puts out fresh water for him every day.  Our furry king still has his front claws and seems to be a hunter, so he pretty much finds his own food.  Although he always has a fat tummy and healthy appearance, to keep him around, the boys do give him some little kitty treats. 

   Norman is allergic to cats, so we try to keep him outside (the cat... not Norman!  Ha!).  I say "try" because our friendly feline tries to sneak in the house whenever he sees an open door.  :-)

   The boys have grown very attached to him and include him in their play... even when they are jumping on the trampoline!  The cat will jump up on it and lay there while the boys are jumping.  He doesn't seem to mind all the bouncing.  Sometimes our boys will stop and rest beside him.  And, at other times, the cat will climb up the step-ladder that the boys keep beside the trampoline and sit on the top step.  That is when he definitely looks like the "King of the Castle"!  :-)

   Anyway, our boys are very thankful for our new royal member and hope that he is here to stay.

~Connie~