Introducing.....

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would like to introduce you to the latest addition to our family.  Her name is Shelly.

She is so gorgeous!!

I first met Shelly at The Lost Dog's Home in the local area, which is an animal shelter housing dogs, cats and birds.  I have been talking about getting a cat or dog for a long time and it was only a few weeks ago that I finally decided on a cat or kitten.

My mother took me to the local shelter last Saturday and we viewed all the cats and kittens that were living at the shelter.  I narrowed my choice down to three cats.  They all had similar colouring and had made some sort of move towards me when I approached their cell.  I have to call them cells, because that is the only way I can describe the accommodation these poor creatures have.  All the cats have a blanket or small pillow and a towel in their 'cell' to lay on.  They have a scratching post, a step, food and water.  Then they can climb through a small hole to use a litter tray.  They are well cared for, but they don't get much interaction with other animals or people and they have little time outside their little homes.  So sad!!

The handler, Amy, opened Shelly's door and Shelly sniffed me and we fell in love.  She was purring and twisting around to get me to stroke her head.  I was completely taken with her and I didn't need to see any more.  She was it.  I took her home an hour or so later and was thrilled.

Shelly is hiding.  Much like her owner (me) she doesn't realise people can see her backside! 

Shelly likes to play!

The first few days were a bit trying.  She didn't like the idea of being picked up or cuddled and she avoided all of us by running very very fast and hiding in the deepest darkest nooks and crannies in the house.  However, by Tuesday night, she was happy to sit in the lounge room with the family and we took a few photos.  She likes to play with her toys (a squeaky ball, a toy mouse on a string, paper bows on string and a fabric snake toy) while we watch TV.  She has jumped into bed with me a few times too.  She loves company as long as it is on her own terms.  We are kindred spirits.

So, no doubt you will be hearing more about Shelly and her adventures.  Now you know who she is.  For those of you who might be concerned; Hagrid is GOOD.  He has seen Shelly and they had a casual meeting on my bed this afternoon.  They aren't bestest buds yet, but it is only a matter of time.

That's that then.