How a Cat Named Neuf sparked a Fresh Start in Life and Business
For Valerie D’Hauwers, the number nine has always carried a special significance. When she adopted a cat and relocated to Brussels, naming him “Neuf” – French for nine – felt like the ideal choice. “His original name was Otto, which means eight, so I thought it would be amusing to bump it up to nine,” she shares with a grin. “And, of course, the idea that cats have nine lives made it even more fitting.”
But Neuf is more than just a cherished pet; he’s the muse behind Valerie’s flourishing gift shop, aptly named NEUF. “The name isn’t random,” she explains. “It symbolizes a new chapter in my life – a new home, a fresh career, and a brand-new beginning.” At 29, Valerie faced a pivotal moment when she lost her job. Rather than viewing it as a setback, she embraced the opportunity to chase her lifelong dream of opening her own store. “It was now or never,” she recalls. “With a stroke of luck, I found the perfect space, and my dream came to life.”
Neuf, the cat, became a symbol of this change. “He’s not just my pet; he’s my mascot,” Valerie reveals. Initially, she hoped to bring him to the store, but his self-reliant nature made it clear he wasn’t suited for shop life. “he’s not the type to lounge on the counter and accept pats from everyone,” she laughs. “But he’s still very much a part of the brand.his image is our logo, and he embodies what NEUF stands for – new beginnings and vibrant energy.”
Balancing a business with caring for a spirited cat comes with its own set of challenges. “Neuf loves to play pranks when he’s bored,” Valerie admits. To keep him entertained, she often takes him to her parents’ home, where he’s treated like a grandchild. “It’s a change of scenery for him, and he adores it,” she says. When Valerie travels, a trusted friend steps in as a cat-sitter, ensuring Neuf is well cared for. “Pets, especially in a city, become more than just animals – they’re housemates, companions, and something to look forward to coming home to,” she reflects.
Today, NEUF is more than just a gift store; it’s a testament to Valerie’s resilience and creativity.While the shop is brimming with unique treasures, Valerie is quick to clarify, “NEUF is a gift store, not a cat shop.” Still, Neuf’s presence is felt in every corner, a reminder of the journey that brought Valerie to where she is today. For her, the store and the cat are intertwined, each representing a new chapter filled with possibility and purpose.
Valerie’s story is a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, the smallest inspirations – like a cat named Neuf – can lead to the most critically important transformations. Weather you’re starting a new career, moving to a new city, or simply embracing change, NEUF stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of new beginnings.
Interview with Nicholas Trent: A Journey Through Love, Loss, and Redemption in “Allegra’s Song”
By Archyde News
Archyde News: Good afternoon, Mr. Trent. Thank you for joining us today. Your story,set in the aftermath of the Battle of Waterloo,is both gripping and poignant. Can you share how this pivotal moment in history shaped your life?
Nicholas Trent: Thank you for having me. The Battle of Waterloo was a turning point, not just for Europe but for me personally. As a lieutenant in the British Army, I witnessed the brutality of war firsthand. Returning to England afterward, I carried scars—both physical and emotional—that shaped my outlook. It was a time of rebuilding, not just for nations, but for individuals like myself.
Allegra: A Force of Nature
Archyde News: Your story is part of the novella Allegra’s Song. Without revealing too much, can you tell us about your relationship with Allegra and how it influenced your journey?
Nicholas Trent: Allegra is… a force of nature. She’s a gifted musician with a spirit that refuses to be confined by society’s rigid expectations. Our paths crossed unexpectedly, and her presence became transformative. She challenged me to confront my past and rethink my future. Her music became a metaphor for healing, and through her, I rediscovered a sense of purpose I thought I had lost forever.
Navigating Class and Society in 1816
Archyde News: The early 19th century was a time of significant social and political change. How did you navigate the complexities of class and societal expectations in your story?
Nicholas Trent: It’s a delicate dance, to say the least. Society in 1816 was unforgiving, especially for someone like Allegra, who defied convention. As a former soldier,I was expected to adhere to a certain code of conduct,but my experiences made me question those very foundations.Together, Allegra and I struggled against the constraints of our respective stations, and our relationship became a microcosm of the broader societal shifts occurring at the time.
the Power of Resilience
Archyde News: What do you hope readers will take away from your story?
Nicholas Trent: Above all, I hope readers see the resilience of the human spirit. War, loss, and societal pressures can break a person, but they can also lead to growth and redemption.Allegra’s music and our shared journey are a testament to the power of love, art, and the courage to defy the odds.
Archyde News: Thank you, Mr. Trent, for sharing your story with us. It’s been a truly inspiring conversation.
Nicholas Trent reflects on His Journey and Lessons Learned
Published on January 18, 2025
In a heartfelt conversation, nicholas Trent shared his thoughts on personal growth and the profound lessons he has gathered over the years. “The pleasure is mine,” Trent expressed warmly. “Thank you for allowing me to reflect on my journey and the lessons it holds.”
A tale of Love, Loss, and Redemption: Allegra’s Song
As Trent’s story unfolds, another captivating narrative comes to mind—Alicia Rasley’s “Allegra’s Song.” This novel, now available on Kindle, weaves a tale of love, loss, and redemption set against the rich historical backdrop of post-Waterloo Europe. Readers are invited to immerse themselves in this evocative story, which resonates deeply with themes of resilience and transformation.
Exploring Culture and Storytelling
For those eager to delve into the worlds of culture, history, and storytelling, this conversation serves as a reminder of the power of narrative. whether through personal reflections or literary works,stories have the ability to connect,inspire,and transform.
