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A fluffy black cat lies on a kitchen table in front of an elderly Black woman working on a crossword puzzle with a pencil. 13 / 36

Grandma Odessa Was Halfway Through the Crossword When Licorice Took Over

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Grandma Odessa is three clues deep into the morning crossword, pencil in hand, when the table suddenly acquires a large, fluffy obstacle. Licorice has stretched himself across the wood right in front of her, chin up, round amber eyes staring straight ahead with total confidence. Behind him, Odessa keeps her focus on the puzzle grid, wearing her green cardigan, her reading glasses set aside next to a glass of water. A coffee mug, a small dish of butter, a folded napkin, and a little succulent complete the breakfast scene in a warm, cluttered kitchen.

Cats sitting on papers, keyboards, and puzzles is such a common habit that it's practically a household joke, and there are a few likely reasons for it. Whatever you're focused on is clearly important, so your cat wants to be part of it. Paper also holds a bit of warmth and makes a satisfying crinkle. And lying in your line of sight is a very effective way to get attention. If it becomes a daily standoff, a cozy bed or folded towel placed right beside your workspace can give your cat a nearby spot to settle, close enough to supervise without sitting on seven across.

Odessa doesn't look the least bit bothered. Maybe Licorice is helping in his own way, slowing the morning down so nobody rushes through it. A crossword, a cup of coffee, and a cat who refuses to be ignored make for a pretty fine start to the day.

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