Why Do Cats Seem So Much More Loving in the Winter?

I am an animal lover.  Well, let me rephrase.  I like all animals, but LOVE cats.  I find that I can now say this not only without shame, but with a certain bit of pride.  So many people today either can't stand cats or are conveniently allergic to them.  These very same people and many others out there are all avid dog lovers.  I believe that for once in my life, I now find myself part of an exclusive group. 

The 'cat people' group is a rare and somewhat novel place to find oneself.  Now, I know that a few of our members are lonely spinsters or widows that are covered with their own special 'coat' of fur.  But, most of us are just uniquely superior beings that enjoy the challenge of earning love.  I get that love should be freely given and all that.  But, I have always taken great pride in earning things, even affection.

 No cat just gives its affection away, their love and trust is built slowly over time. Usually, after several days, weeks, even months of owning a new furry friend I will wake up to find them curled up next to me purring.  What an amazing moment! Through patience and perseverance I've earned something's trust.  I know in these moments I always have a big smile on my face.  That is until I throw back the covers to discover, "Holy Crap it's freezing!"   I must admit each year after the end of winter, I conveniently forget the suspiciously affectionate behavior my cats' show towards me, especially when I happen to be covered in blankets. 

So, maybe their trust is never fully earned and I do feel a level of disappointment when I realize that weather has a lot to do with the 'love' I am given, but it still makes me feel special.  Not the short bus special, but the good kind that says I mean something to someone.  Even if it is just warmth.  I have yet to find my cats curled up with visiting winter guests or my unpredictable 6 year old, so I choose to believe that maybe some trust has been earned after all.  Anyway, I like having goals to work towards.  If I had a dog, there would be nothing left to do except wait for the hero worship to begin when ever I walked in the room.  I think that would get old.  Very much like an unearned vacation or pay check.  This could get very political if I don't stop things where they are.  I must say though, that these ramblings of mine seem to get worse each time. I must try to remember to write these things before I am worn out after a long day of non stop giving everyone else what they need.  It so hard to be such giver. Yes, I am aware that I keep using the same words over and over, but I used up all my good words when I was giving today.  Now, I need to finish with a great closing line.
 
Maybe, a hero worshipping dog wouldn't be such a bad idea after all, perhaps I'll look into it.