Hi, I've done a bit of looking online since you mentioned soft-bodied tick. I think you're right. I'm not sure exactly what kind it is, but do you think I need to be concerned for myself or my cat? I've read that soft-bodied ticks can be a vector of relapsing fever and other diseases.

...but usually a positive ID beyond family requires much more detail, although you sure did a great job photographing it.
Blaine Mathison, who is with CDC, says "Most probably a Carios sp."
can't tell you if you should be concerned: it's a Q for your physician and/or veterinarian

Thanks for looking into that. I see that Carios kelleyi, formerly Ornithodoros kelleyi, generally infests bats. The ticks are often left behind when the bats migrate to hibernation in caves. I live in a large old brick house, and there are definitely bats. I think . . . mystery solved. I'll just hope not to get bit once the bats leave for the area caves.

Thanks again!