Spring is almost here! In the south, we have been lucky to have a few “summer” days. Although lately, it feels like spring in the mornings, summer in the afternoon, and winter at night. The human goes to work with a thick jacket on and returns with sweat in the same outfit. The weather here is out of control, but at least it has it’s benefits. I get to walk outside more than I normally would! As much as I love the outdoors there was a time when I hated the outdoors! And I mean it! My first day outside was terrifying! My human took me out on the front porch. I immediately got scared by the sound of cars, dogs barking, and even leaves. Yes, leaves! Terrifying! It took me a few weeks to outgrow my fear of the outdoors, but when I did I faced my new fear. Car rides! For several weeks my human drove me around inside her car every day after she got home from work. I meowed in fear, but after a week I felt comfortable in the car. I realized the car ride was actually fun! So that’s how the human got the idea of taking me out for a “true walk in the park”. She bought a cat backpack and off to the park we went. I stayed inside the backpack the whole time. We did this every day until I was comfortable enough to explore the park. The rest is history! Now, I walk like I don’t care. I now know that my humans protect me. If I’m ever scared I just jump back into my backpack and feel safe. I allow other little humans and adult humans to pet me when we go out. I find shade when i’m hot, and I nap inside the backpack when I feel sleepy. I love the outdoors. I hope other cats get to enjoy the outdoors with their humans as I do. We cats deserve to explore the outdoors more, but with the safety of a harness and human guards. That’s the true perk of being a spoiled kitty!