On February 19, Birdette gave birth to a litter of two; a blue and white boy, and a pale cream female with pink highlights. I am excited beyond explanation as I was fearful that I would not have a female from Birdette for future breeding. As usual, Birdette did not let me down and came through in flying colors. Birdie is a great mother. She pays close attention to her babies but does not smother them. She allows them to venture out on their own but is available if they should need her. At the tender age of three weeks, Birdette decided it was time to introduce them to the other cats. She slowly walked into the main room followed by two very tiny little ones whose steps were
small and uncertain. Birdie encouraged them to walk in a circle around the room, stopping briefly for Grandma Catie, Daddy Trader and brothers, Howie and Trouble to meet them. All watched as the little parade began to exit the room, then Trader came forward for a closer look, he licked each one ever so gently as if saying, "Welcome, my little ones." He escorted Birdette back to my bedroom, then returned to his place on my computer monitor. Trader took an active part in Howie's upbringing and was the only adult who had the patience to play with Trouble for any amount of time. When Trader came here to live, I knew it was only temporary. Not only did Trader leave me with several of his offspring, but he left pawprints on my heart as well.
