A Successful Weekend

Well, I’m happy to report that we had a great weekend!

Ellie began the trip by climbing under her blankie.

For those new to the story, my husband and I decided to bring CG and Ellie to my brother’s house for his birthday this past weekend. The decision was based on the fact that CG has gone every previous year, and we thought Ellie needed some more car-travel experience.

Overall the trip to Michigan went well — CG was an old pro and handled it well. About 30 minutes into the trip he started meowing on and off, but he wasn’t too anxious and settled down eventually.

However, the trip was a bit more stressful for Ellie. She immediately hid under her carrier liner and blankie, and mewed a great deal. However, she responded positively to us looking at her, speaking to her, and petting her through the carrier door.

About halfway there we had a chorus of meows coming from the back seat, but it wasn’t anything to be concerned about. Both were relaxed and laying down — they just felt the need to constantly remind us that they were there!

Ellie visiting with Uncle Adam

Once we arrived at my brother’s, Ellie started exploring right away. She was a bit uneasy, but was as brave as she could be! Fortunately, she found comfort in the room we were staying in, so that became her home base.

She was SO comfortable in that room, that at one point we found her on the bed! That was truly a surprise as I really didn’t think she was capable of climbing up there — but she showed me!

CG and Ellie also spent some time exploring my brother’s stairs. CG, who hasn’t climbed carpeted stairs in 9 months, did quite well. Ellie, who’s never tried stairs, topped half-way down by accident, but was much more capable climbing up them. We eventually barricaded the stairs with a baby gate to prevent any future unsupervised adventures!

It also became obvious that lots of people and loud noises made her uneasy. We let her retreat to her safe room when it became too much for her; and then we coaxed her out into the living room when things settled down. She seemed to respond positively to that, but we certainly have some more work to do in that department.

Meanwhile, CG was completely at home. He’s familiar with my brother’s place and just LOVES being there. I’ve never seen him so happy or prance around as much as he did. He was chatty, flirty and in such a good mood. It almost broke my heart to bring him home!

CG and Ellie sunning together the next morning.

The next morning CG and Ellie were acting quite comfortable. I don’t think CG slept much that previous night, but Ellie had found my husband and I and snuggled down — at least for a few hours. They spent the next morning playing with one another and enjoyed the morning sun.

The trip home was much like the trip there; only Ellie was a bit more anxious initially. However, they both soon settled down soon enough, and before they knew it, we were home!

They spent the rest of Sunday napping. And even though Ellie was exhausted, she still tried to follow us around our apartment and “help” with whatever was going on. It was absolutely precious!

Anyway, I’m SO glad that the trip went well. CG had a blast, and Ellie’s being exposed to more people and situations, which will make her more easy-going in the future. While there’s still some work to be done, I’m glad this adventure went wonderfully!

Uncle Adam saying goodbye to his nephew and niece.