The Great Peacemaker

In spite of how it may appear (ahem), things are not always Sunshine and Butterflies at Chez Dennis.  Elroy can't stand Mister, and chases him frequently.  Otto likes to mess with Reggie and Mister, and will stalk them mercilessly, just for his own amusement.  Reggie goes after Mister, too, but it's hard to tell sometimes if he's playing or just being mean.  And, well...you already know about Wanda's and Otto's little disagreements.

But one thing that seems to bring them all together more than anything else, is our Jotul woodstove.  As soon as the temperatures start to dip and the stove starts crackling, suddenly all differences are forgotten and everyone seems to get along.  You've heard of the lion laying down by the lamb?  It's kind of like that, with just the fire and none of the brimstone.  

Usually, Reggie, Otto, Wanda, Elroy and Mister are all stretched out in front of the fire in one combination or another.  Often last year, Reggie's head would actually be under the stove.  (I told you he is a Bear of Very Little Brain.)  Sometimes, some of the sworn enemies will actually be touching, and they don't seem to mind.  It's kind of a Christmas miracle, actually, but it gets to happen all winter long.  I will post pictures as soon as we have some.