One Little Kitten

This tiny creature had popped up at just the right time!

APPARENTLY the best thing you can do when you leave home is buy your parent a puppy or kitten,” Cam stated as he finished twisting festive lights around the verandah posts.

“It’s so that they still have something to take care of when you’re not there,” he explained.

“No, thank you,” replied, pouring us both a coffee.

“The house will feel empty without you, Cam, but I’ll be fine.”

Cam would be starting university after Christmas, and because we lived on the outskirts of Melbourne, he’d opted to move into a house-share in the city with other students.

It would be strange without him.

Cam had been ten when his dad and I split up, so I'd be on my own for the first time in years.

But I’d known this day was coming and had made lots of plans.

I'd worked as a freelance proofreader since Cam was small.

It had worked well, enabling me to be at home while at the same time earning an income.

But now that no longer had family responsibilities, intended to cut back on the proofreading and finally have a go at writing that novel I'd been talking about for ever.

Before could write it, needed to do some research, so I'd already booked a trip to Tasmania, where my book was set. 

l planned to attend some writers’ festivals and workshops as well.

All that, plus work and regular catch-ups with family and friends, would keep me busy.

| also planned a big clear-out.

There were still some of Cam’s old toys in the spare room, and had so many books that the bookshelves were crammed full.

But before the New Year there was Christmas to enjoy.

Cam and had spent the morning decorating the verandah and garden.