Hello, Adversity

Hello, Adversity

A Welcome Addition

This winter pushed me to act. It's time to get a pet.

Chris Anselmo's avatar
Chris Anselmo
Feb 04, 2026
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A brown and gray striped tabby cat stretched out on a white towel on a wooden bench beside a black pug wearing a camouflage harness
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

It’s been a miserably cold winter here in Connecticut. Somehow, January has been colder than December, and February is already colder than January. (I would like to take this time to send my heartfelt condolences to Floridians who have to contend with temperatures in the 30s.)

It’s also been the snowiest winter in several years. Everywhere in the state has between one and two feet of snow on the ground, which is great for kids, not so much for adults. There was a time when I waited in breathless anticipation any time school closings scrolled on the bottom of the TV screen. But now, it’s a nuisance that distracts me from whatever show I’m trying to watch.

(Sorry if I’m giving off “Old Man Yells at Cloud” vibes. I’m just ready for spring.)

old man yells at cloud is written on a newspaper

Yet, all is not lost. Despite the subzero temperatures, this winter has motivated me to pursue a goal that has been on my to-do list for many years:

Getting a furry companion.

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