The annual Battle of the Snowflakes began this morning.

Right on cue, the lake effect snow that was predicted for the eastern Great Lakes region began around 7 am today.

Ember, my tortoiseshell tabby, monitored it from her favorite windowsill for a while. Initial flakes were small, making the air look hazy. She does not like that. She wants a clear view. When flakes got larger and swirled against the window, Ember went into action. Slap here. Slap there. "Out, out white spot!" Then the race, from one end of the windowsill to the other. Slap, slap, slap.

By that point she was obsessed, racing back and forth like a maniac. Did not respond to her name. Nothing existed but those invading white spots.

Ember is 10 years old. Every year she tries to wipe out the snowflakes. Never mind that she never succeeds. Her view of the world outside turns white anyway, despite her efforts.

Is it the challenge of the chase, like chasing the laser light which she never catches but can't resist running after? I think that she also doesn't like her view of the scenery changing. Cats don't like change. Snow makes everything look white and different. Also, snow means less people and activities going on for her to watch.

I went over and put my arm around her, said it was ok. She sat down, looked at the snow covered ground.

She went through a few more snow chasing frenzies before being distracted with her toys. She's now curled up on the floor, away from the windows, sleeping. Chasing snowflakes wears a lady out.