The cat and the birds cohabit peacefully. The cat watches the birds obsessively, and the birds ignore the cat.

Yesterday, I woke predawn, the sound of my husband and son turning in their beds, the soft rumbling of their breathing assuring me of some peace and privacy. But the air filled with chatter from the living room as I sat down at my office desk. The birds twittered enthusiastically, then quieted, awaiting a reply. The cat mewed and purred, modulating her vocals to chirp-like sounds, albeit lower-pitched. Back and forth, the song and response continued for almost an hour.

I suddenly wished I had a morning companion, someone with whom to greet the day. As grateful as I am to rise each morning and sit with my thoughts and my journal, a little conversation would be welcome now and then.