Uncommon Daily Habits: Me, My Cats, and My Patting Routine

Do you ever wonder about the habits and routines others follow that may seem absurd to you? One of my daily habits, something you might think quite peculiar, involves patting my head lightly whenever it itches due to dry skin. This method has been a part of my routine, especially for the past 50 or 60 years, and it has proven more effective for reducing irritation and damage than scratching.

Scratching can cause further harm to the scalp, leading to hair loss, and the shedding of flakes can be unsightly, littering my clothes. My father taught me this non-destructive technique, and it has stuck with me. It's a bit of a quirky habit, but it keeps my scalp healthy and helps me maintain an overall sense of calm and cleanliness.

Some people might not understand why I do this, but for me, it's a simple yet effective way to manage my dry scalp without causing more harm.

My Routine and Limited Lifestyle

My routine doesn't change much, and I stay home quite often due to the restrictions brought about by various health conditions. I have undergone knee operations, hernia repairs, and had my gallbladder removed. My sensitive kidneys further limit my mobility, as I can only walk a few kilometers a day. This lifestyle has led to a limited need to venture out, and I have all that I need right here in my home.

I live in a secluded piece of property, surrounded by nature, which serves as my personal sanctuary. I find joy in the solitude and the natural surroundings. My home is located in Jacksonville, on the Eastside, bordering the river and the Atlantic Ocean. However, most of my living space is tucked away in the woods, approximately a hundred yards from the street. This secluded setting provides me with total privacy.

I am surrounded by 14 cats, who are all of my children, and I need to care for them daily. While I can pet the cats that are comfortable around me, others remain terribly fearful of me. Despite this, I take care of them all, ensuring their nutrition and comfort. My daily routine includes feeding, petting those who can be approached, and providing affection where it is sought. My love for these cats is trulyondrous, and their presence continues to bring me joy and a sense of companionship.

Pet Kingdom: A Woodworker by Trade

In addition to my role as a loving caretaker of my feline family, I am also a skilled woodworker. My property is an extension of my trade, with two woodworking shops. I have a general shop that is 600 square feet, located about 40 feet away from my home, and a smaller, 160 square-foot shop that I built at the ripe age of 79. With these two spaces, I have been able to continue my work with great success, rebuilding furniture and creating pieces that are both beautiful and functional.

With a hobby that involves a lot of physical activity, I sometimes engage in what some might view as unusual habits, such as fidgeting. This is particularly important for me as I have limitations due to health issues. Fidgeting helps me burn extra calories and manage my health more effectively. When I am working on my laptop, you might catch me fidgeting, but I try to avoid it when someone is present, as they might think it's unusual behavior.

Despite my limitations, I have managed to stay productive and engaged in my work. I no longer drive a car and have been riding a bicycle for two years, often towing a small trailer for my daily shopping. My affection for gas-powered tools, while unconventional, has allowed me to remain functional and active in my craft. Although I believe I might have received more than I needed, the company of my furry friends and the satisfaction of creating with wood brings me joy and a sense of fulfillment.

In this unique and self-chosen lifestyle, where I find contentment and purpose, I embrace my habits and routines—both the familiar and the unconventional. Whether it's patting my head, tending to my cats, or crafting wooden masterpieces, these activities bring me a sense of peace and joy amidst the simpler aspects of life.