Thanks for the kind words. I have loved reading this website for quite a while, but have never taken part until today. I have always had a great affinity for cats -- we just understand each other somehow and there is absolute trust between us. I adore all my kitties and would adopt every homeless cat if I could (as we all would!) but it isn't possible. Last week I was offered at least 3 more cats. Sad state of affairs, isn't it? Because all my cats' names start with a C, as does mine, my boss calls us the 6 C's. My "firstborn," Columbus, is a beautiful 3 year old grey tabby with lots of black stripes, and he is a totally precious, friendly kitty. I think he would hold the flashlight for a burglar. He was an only child for his first year, so after feeling guilty for leaving him alone, I adopted Cricket and Chrissie (brother and sister) who are 2. Cricket is a slim, long legged kitty who is shy, but incredibly sweet and LOVES to be brushed. The aforementioned Chrissie is a brown version of Columbus. She loves showers and is always waiting when anyone gets out of the shower, and has the cutest "rattle" purr. And then there is Courtney, 1 year old, who I adopted last August. She is a gorgeous Maine Coon mix, with lots of attitude and lots of love to give. My first three had never seen anything like her, but now they all love her. And then I just got Chip, who I am hoping will settle in. He is a wonderful kitty who has obviously been traumatized, and I hope he will learn to relax and trust. Courtney tried at first to be friends, but even she seems to avoid him now. Chip does seem to recognize that Columbus is Top Cat, but he wants to wedge himself in their as at least number 2. I have gotten a recommendation to a vet who specializes in animal holistic medicine, but I'm not sure what to think about that. If anyone has any experience with this, I would love to hear about it.