This is only one of Charlie the Ginger Cat's numerous histories.

Johannes Vermeer and one of his famous artworks.

Episode one.

Hey there, my glorious Friend!

Today, I, Charlie, the ginger cat, return to share a thrilling tale with you. I have a unique ability to travel through time and witness historical events unfold.

I want to tell you about my newest find.

Have you ever felt like someone's eyes were following you around a portrait painting, no matter what side you were on? My family's house has a similar oil painting of a charming young woman on the wall. I chose to learn more about her one day. As my host walked by, I sat across from that oil painting and put on a thoughtful and intelligent face. He looked at me and smiled as he talked about Johannes Vermeer, the Netherlands, the city of Delft, and the mysterious and captivating artwork "Girl with a pearl Earring.''

 I kept sitting there with the same bright look on my face. What then took place?  I didn't understand it at first.

As I peacefully dozed off, a sudden jolt transported me to the bustling City of Delft in the 17th century.

 I found myself inside the Vermeer family home on the fireplace mantel in his studio. I saw a portrait of the young girl, her captivating eyes somehow familiar to me, taking shape under Vermeer's skilled hand.

The bulky fireplace didn't give off much heat, and the lamps cast a dim light. The door creaked open, and Johannes's wife, Catharina, entered with another candlelight. 

I felt like she could see right through me as she smiled at her husband. She put the candlelight next to me, added more wood to the hearth, and then started sharing some 

local gossip she'd heard at the butcher shop. Johannes tried to listen but seemed to be thinking about something else. She talked about how food prices were going up this week and how they would have to buy winter clothes for their bigger kids next month.

He irritably cut her off and said, "Oh my God, Catharina! What are you talking about? I can't wait for this oil paint to dry. I need to finish her right away."

 "Do you already have a buyer for her?" she asked in surprise. He hadn't said anything because he had already given in to his thoughts. 

As for me, all of a sudden, I saw their sad and challenging future...

But at the same time, the annoying sound woke me up, and therefore,