A common catchphrase that is used often when we are encouraging somebody...or ourselves...to be creative and find an out-of-the-ordinary or unique solution to a problem is "think out of the box." Sometimes we become so entangled in our own thoughts and ideas that it is like being trapped in a sealed carton. We need to break through those seals and escape "the box." On the other hand, our feline friends seem to do some of their best work "in the box." 
Whenever a mail delivery arrives, our furry friends await at our feet to claim the box. Perhaps there is safety in the corrugated walls or comfort in the confined area, but they definitely prefer to be "in the box." Occasionally a tiff will occur when more than one cat wants possession of the newly arrived cardboard fortress. Then the wisest thing is simply to remove the carton altogether. I often wonder just what they are thinking as they settle into their new "digs." Paddy and London are the most persistent in claiming a new arrival. Then as persistent as they were, suddenly the box is empty and everyone loses interest. 
When I recently purchased corrugated scratching houses for our inside cats, they all had to try out the inside before catching on to the true purpose of the structure--scratching. London became possessive and I felt the only solution was to purchase another so the vacant spaces could be more easily shared. Ironically, Halo was the only one who thought about the outside of the box and has made the roof her daily scratching pad. London and Zoie prefer to sit in the box structure and Paddy is the outside onlooker and agitator.
Paddy strives for the box effect in other areas of the house. She prefers the tent effect of the towel rack or under the carpeted cat stairs where she is safe but can observe all the goings-on. 
Even Bonnie has been thinking "in the box!" On a recent visit she sat next to the litter box in the basement which has remained untouched since she and Clyde have been visiting us each morning and evening. After pondering awhile she moved "in the box." Now if we could just teach her to use the box rather than sit in it! 
On the other hand, Bonnie has been thinking "out of the bowl" this past week. After she and Clyde step inside for the morning and evening meals on the placemat right inside the basement door, I have been setting a second dish halfway between me and the placemat. Bonnie has be venturing over to the second dish. I am waiting for the moment when she thinks "out of the dish" and into my hands for a gentle petting. Patience is so hard when they are so darn cute and I want to scoop them into my arms and hug them. And, even Halo enjoys an occasional respite in the confines of the base of the kitchen cat condo. It's obvious that our furry friends like to watch the outside world from "in the box." They will gladly let thinking out of the box to humans!
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THE WEDDING PROMISE
THE WEDDING PROMISE
Book 8, SEARCH FOR LOVE Series
Sequel to HER SISTER
Release Date: June 1, 2016
Beth Crandall has known trauma. Kidnapped from her birth family when she was three, abandoned at a mall by her kidnapper a few months later, traumatic amnesia has prevented memories from plaguing her as she was adopted and ushered into a "normal" life. But a twist of fate reunited her with her birth family recently and now she's attempting to move forward in a way she couldn't before.
As a teenager, Beth's face was scarred in an attack at a group home where her best friend lived. Now Beth is seeing a plastic surgeon, Dr. Sam Benedict, so he can remove the scar. Sam volunteers his time to the foundation Kids Cause which sends doctors all over the world to help children. Sam, who came from an abusive home, feels children need to be listened to and fixed. He and Beth connect on a deep level from the first moment they meet.
Beth has believed a romantic relationship is impossible for her given her background. But during integration into her birth family and throughout a search for her teenage best friend, Sam remains by her side. He helps to heal more than the scar on her face. Neither of them realize that Beth's search for her friend with the help of psychic Gillian Bradley (continuing character from other SEARCH FOR LOVE books) will land them in a fight for their lives.
THE WEDDING PROMISE will also be available in print and audio book formats
after its June 1 launch. Watch for details.
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| Karen and Paddy |
USA TODAY Bestselling Author Karen Rose Smith is an only child who delved into books at an early age. She learned about kindred spirits from Anne of Green Gables, solved mysteries with Nancy Drew and wished she could have been the rider on The Black Stallion. Yet even though she escaped often into story worlds, she had many aunts, uncles and cousins around her on weekends. Her sense of family and relationships began there. Maybe that's why families are a strong theme in her novels, whether mysteries or romances. Her 95th novel will be released in 2016.
Readers often ask her about her pastimes. She has herb, flowers and vegetable gardens that help her relax. In the winter, she cooks rather than gardens. And year round she spends most of her time with her husband, as well as her four rescued cats who are her constant companions. They chase rainbows from sun catchers, reminding her life isn't all about work, awards and bestseller lists. Everyone needs that rainbow to chase.
Karen looks forward to interacting with readers. They can find her at the links below.
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©2016 Karen Rose Smith
I love reading the antics of all your sweet babies! My zister recently moved in witb us, bringing what was supposed to be two cats, but SURPRISE!, we ow have two rambunctious kittens! They are so cute and fun to watch.
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