If you've found your way here, you might notice something a little different about my home studio — it’s purrfectly nature-friendly! I share my space with three adopted fur babies, each with their own unique personalities and little quirks. Though you might not always see them, they’re around and, every now and then, they’ll pop in for a visit. If you're an animal lover, you’ll understand the joy of having these curious little souls wander through your space. I thought I’d take a moment to introduce you to my cats and share how they add their own special touch to my creative process.
My studio, affectionately called 'The Tiny but Mighty,' is just that – small in size, but big in personality. It may not be large, but it’s the perfect space for creativity, filled with love (and a bit of fur)! And it’s not just my cats who bring energy to the space — my South American roots are reflected in the vibrant tropical plants that fill every corner with life and color.
Meet Rosita – The Independent Queen
Rosita is the alpha of the group and the wise senior of the bunch. Rosita is a typical rumpy Manx kitty, meaning she has no tail but a fluffy tuft of fur where her tail would be. Adopted at just five months old from Savannah Pet Rescue, she’s an affectionate cat, though very independent. Rosita likes her space and will happily accept a few pets, but don’t expect her to hang around for too long – she has places to be (usually high places, like her cat tree or windowsills). She’s the kind of cat who will come around when she’s in the mood for affection, and then disappear back into her own world. But no matter what, she always rules the roost with quiet grace.
Say Hello to Hopper – The Gentle Giant
Hopper is the middle child, and as the largest cat in the house, he’s also the fluffiest. He’s a Siberian Mix and, despite being three-legged, he gets around like a champ. Hopper is a sweet but shy boy who is mostly seen when he’s hungry. He has a soft spot for the outdoors, though he prefers to stay close to home, especially around his favorite people. We adopted Hopper during the pandemic when he was rehomed to us, and he’s been part of the family ever since. Don’t be surprised if you spot him taking a quick nap in a sunny spot — his calm demeanor adds such a peaceful vibe to the studio.
And Finally, Nebris – The Talkative Baby
Nebris is the youngest of the bunch, and he’s by far the most vocal. His story is one of pure serendipity. Hopper found him outside in the summer of 2024, and when Nebris wouldn’t leave the house, Hopper insisted we feed him. After that, Nebris didn’t venture too far. By December 2024, we officially adopted him. He’s a talkative little guy who has to let you know exactly where he is and what he’s thinking at all times. If you’re working and you hear a lot of vocalizations, it’s likely Nebris, especially if I’ve been out of sight for too long. He is also FIV positive, but don’t worry – he’s living a happy, healthy life with us.
Tropical Vibes
While the cats bring warmth and comfort to the studio, my indoor plants are a big part of what makes it feel like home. I have a collection of South American tropical plants, like vibrant Philodendrons (my favorite, but don't tell the others!) which add a pop of color and lush greenery. These plants thrive in the cozy, humid environment I’ve cultivated here and bring a bit of the rainforest into my home. They not only help purify the air but also create a peaceful atmosphere.
A Furry, Wildlife-Filled World
While my house is home to my three special kitties and tropical plants, the whole property is full of wildlife. Depending on the season, you’ll see backyard birds, herons, wood storks, deer, squirrels, turtles, and even the occasional alligator in the pond, all adding to the lively atmosphere. It’s a peaceful, natural setting that fuels my creativity, and I’m lucky to share my space with such an eclectic group of creatures.
If you ever visit my home studio, rest assured that the cats will likely make an appearance. They might be shy at first, or they might come right up to say hello (especially if you’re a fellow animal lover). Either way, their presence is just another reason why this is such a special place for me to work, create, and live.
Thanks for reading about my cat-friendly home studio — "The Tiny but Mighty" — I hope it gives you a sense of the cozy, loving environment we’ve built here.
Would you like to learn more about FIV in cats? : https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv
What is a Manx cat? https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/manx/
