I stretch, snort a bit, and go right back to sleep.

 January 3, 2025 – From Peanut’s Pillow

Whew. Emma is wiped out. I mean really wiped. She says it’s because she stayed up late reading a book—The Unrepentant Lives of Reggie—which is apparently part of a long human series that keeps her eyes glued to pages instead of to me. But I forgive her. She reads like I nap—fully committed.

While she was still lost in the world of Reggie, her phone buzzed. It was Stephanie calling, and the next thing I knew, Emma was out the door in her boots and coat, off to a place called Luciana’s for what she called a “gabfest.” I don’t know what a gabfest is, but she came back smelling like bread and happiness. Apparently, Stephanie and Emma met at something called a “MOMS ministry” and bonded over their divorces. Stephanie got remarried. Emma is still walking her own path. One paw in front of the other, as I always say.

When she came home, she looked tired—but the kind of tired that comes from full living. She said she’d been up since four in the morning. Something about an idea—“scheduling.” She sent herself a text in the middle of the night. Humans are strange. When I wake up at four, I stretch, snort a bit, and go right back to sleep.

Now, about the morning walk… I didn’t go. And I’m okay with that. It was freezing outside. Like, nose-fur-stiffening cold. Emma knows I don’t have much of a coat.  Chewy doesn’t care—he’s old and tough. But me? I like warm laps and sun patches, thank you very much. So I stayed home while she and Chewy walked the trail.

Chewy’s always by her side, especially when she writes. He insists on being petted, like it’s his royal due. I don’t mind. I get plenty of cuddles. And besides, I’m more of a snuggler than a demander. Chewy has earned his attention. He’s old now, but still loyal as ever. He loves her in a gruff, snorty way. I respect that.

Later today, she did chores (she actually likes chores?), listened to podcasts (more humans talking), and wrote cards for the New Year. I heard her laugh at something from Sex and the City—something about not quitting and accessorizing. That sounds like her. Even her pajamas have personality.

Tonight we’ve got dinner, more snuggles for me (yes please!), another walk for Chewy (I’ll pass), and then she’s off to Judy’s to make necklaces. Emma likes making things. She's always making something.

And me? I’ll be here. Waiting. Watching. Loving.

Life is good—especially with an Emma like mine.

— Peanut 🐾