I admit it- I am curious about dark places that Miss M. tells me not to explore. During the recent snow days when the temperature plummeted down to zero, we had a plumbing issue. A plumber had to be called to Miss Melanie's Tea Room to fix some pipes that didn't stand the cold temperatures.

Mr. K. removed some skirting from the porch and revealed a wondrous site to me- a cave that went under the house- perfect for feline exploration! Who knows what artifacts I might find, some forgotten morsel or two or maybe a creature of the night to chase. I was up to the task!

Miss M. implored me not to go- but it is my duty as protector of the porch to make sure all are safe! What could I do except leap into the dark, cavernous abyss and begin my search. I pushed through cobwebs that might have held back much bigger and stronger foes than I and found myself in a catacomb of kitty play land. I ran, scampered, and explored to my heart's content and suddenly realized I couldn't hear Mr. K's voice anymore! Where was I? Where had my explorations taken me? When would I ever see my family again or smell the aromas from Miss M.'s kitchen?

I went into my survival mode and did what any brave cat in my place would have done- I began howling, calling out for help over and over again! It was my beacon in the darkness. Let the rescue team be launched!

I could hear Olivia and Charlie calling my name and then joined by Mr. K. and Miss M. Help was on the way. It took a while for them to find me. I had ended up in the root cellar quite a distance from my original entrance to my cave.

Once they opened the doors, I shot out like a bullet. Dirty, covered in cobwebs, but a better cat for the experience. I think after all this, I will stick to my favorite chair on the porch. Time for a snooze!

Lily, The Porch Kitty